Who says you can't indulge in a delightful treat while maintaining your sugar-free lifestyle? If you love banana bread, our recipe for Sugar Free Banana Bread offers the perfect solution. This diabetes-friendly bread is moist, flavorful, and guilt-free, ensuring you can satisfy your cravings without compromising your sugar intake.
Made with wholesome ingredients and free from added sugars, this scrumptious banana bread is a must-try for those watching their carbs. Dive into the recipe and discover how to create this heavenly sugar-free treat that will leave you wanting more!
Jump To:
- Why you'll love this sugar-free banana bread recipe?
- Main ingredients used in this recipe
- What makes this banana bread sugar free?
- Make it with coconut flour instead of almond flour
- Make it dairy free
- Steps by step instructions
- Other sugar free recipes you might enjoy
- Recipe tips
- How to store the sugar free banana bread so it stays fresh
- Recipe variations
- Frequently asked questions
- Sugar Free Banana Bread
Just because you're following a low-carb diet doesn't mean you have to bid farewell to all things sweet! Our Sugar-Free Banana Bread recipe is here to satisfy your cravings while keeping your diet goals intact. With a mere 9g of carbs per slice, 3g of fibre, and just 3g of sugar, this delectable treat is a healthier option for indulgence.
Say goodbye to high-sugar snacks and embrace this guilt-free, low-carb banana bread. By enjoying this delicious delight in moderation, you can stay on track with your diet while still satisfying your sweet tooth. Try our recipe today and discover a whole new level of sugar-free bliss! You may also enjoy my top sugar free recipes like these Sugar Free Oatmeal Cookies, Sugar Free Banana Muffins or this Sugar Free Carrot Cake.
Why you'll love this sugar-free banana bread recipe?
- Healthier Ingredients: This healthy banana bread is made with wholesome ingredients like almond flour and sweetener, which provide a healthier alternative to refined sugar. With ingredients like unsalted butter, sour cream, and eggs, it offers a balanced and nutritious option.
- Gluten-Free Delight: With almond flour as the base, this banana bread is completely gluten-free. Enjoy the deliciousness without any worries if you're sensitive to gluten or following a gluten-free diet.
- Bursting with Flavor: The combination of ripe banana, banana extract, and vanilla extract infuses this bread with an irresistible aroma and taste. The addition of walnut pieces adds a delightful crunch and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Easy and Convenient: With simple instructions and common pantry ingredients, this recipe is easy to follow and doesn't require any special culinary skills. In just a few steps, you can create moist and delicious banana bread that will impress your taste buds.
- Versatile and Enjoyable: This sugar-free banana bread recipe can be enjoyed at any time of the day. Whether it's for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, its delectable taste and satisfying texture make it a versatile treat that everyone can enjoy.
Main ingredients used in this recipe
This sugar-free banana bread recipe calls for a selection of nutritious and flavor-enhancing components that contribute to its delightful taste and texture.
- Almond Flour: This gluten free flour serves as the main flour base in this recipe, providing a nutty flavor and a moist texture to the banana bread (see below about swapping for coconut flour).
- Baking Powder: Baking powder is a leavening agent that helps the bread rise and creates a light and fluffy texture.
- Salt: Salt enhances the overall flavor of the banana bread, balancing the sweetness and adding depth to the taste.
- Powdered Sweetener: We used powdered erythritol as a sugar substitute in this recipe to provide sweetness without adding extra sugar or calories. You can use your preferred sugar substitute.
- Eggs: Eggs contribute to the structure and moisture of the bread, helping to bind the ingredients together and create a tender texture.
- Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness and flavor to the banana bread, making it moist and satisfying.
- Sour Cream: My secret ingredient in most cakes and breads. Sour cream adds moisture to the bread, resulting in a soft and moist texture.
- Ripe Banana (optional): Only one small ripe banana is used in this recipe. The mashed banana is a key ingredient that imparts natural sweetness and a distinct banana flavor to the bread. See notes below if you prefer not to use banana.
- Banana Extract: used to enhance the banana flavor, providing an extra boost of banana essence.
- Vanilla Extract: adds a delightful aroma and enhances the overall flavor profile of the banana bread.
- Walnut Pieces: Walnut pieces add crunch and texture to the bread, along with a nutty taste that complements the bananas.
See the recipe card for quantities.
What makes this banana bread sugar free?
This banana bread is considered sugar-free because it doesn't contain added refined sugars. While the recipe includes 1 small ripe banana, it also provides an alternative option for those who prefer to make the bread without using the physical banana. Instead, you can double the amount of banana extract and sweetener in the recipe. By doubling the banana extract, you enhance the banana flavor, replicating the taste of a banana without the added sugar from the fruit itself.
Additionally, increasing the sweetener compensates for the absence of the natural sweetness from the banana. This alternative allows individuals to enjoy a sugar-free banana bread that still captures the essence of banana, while giving them the flexibility to adjust the recipe according to their dietary preferences.
Make it with coconut flour instead of almond flour
If you want to substitute coconut flour for almond flour in this recipe, please keep in mind that coconut flour absorbs liquid differently than almond flour. To successfully use coconut flour, you'll need to make a few adjustments.
Here's what you need to do:
- Adjust the Quantity: Coconut flour is highly absorbent, so you'll need to use less coconut flour compared to almond flour. As a general rule, you can use ¼ to ⅓ cup of coconut flour for every 1 cup of almond flour.
- Increase the Eggs: Since coconut flour absorbs more liquid, you'll need to increase the number of eggs in the recipe. For every ¼ to ⅓ cup of coconut flour used, add one additional egg to the recipe. This helps to provide moisture and bind the ingredients together.
- Allow Extra Time for Absorption: Coconut flour takes time to absorb moisture. Let the batter sit for a few minutes after combining the ingredients to allow the coconut flour to absorb the liquid properly.
By following these adjustments, you can successfully use coconut flour in place of almond flour for this sugar-free banana bread recipe. Experiment and make sure to adjust the other ingredients if necessary, such as the sweetener, to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy your coconut flour-based sugar-free banana bread!
Make it dairy free
To make this banana bread recipe dairy-free, you can make a few simple substitutions:
- Replace the unsalted butter: Use a dairy-free alternative, such as coconut oil, in place of the unsalted butter. Make sure to use the same quantity as mentioned in the original recipe.
- Substitute the sour cream: Instead of using regular sour cream, opt for a dairy-free alternative like coconut cream or dairy-free yogurt. Again, use the same quantity as indicated in the recipe.
By making these dairy-free substitutions, you can enjoy delicious sugar-free and dairy-free banana bread that suits your dietary preferences and needs.
Remember to check the specific labels and ingredients of the dairy-free alternatives you choose to ensure they align with your dietary requirements.
Steps by step instructions
How to make Sugar Free Banana Bread
STEP 1: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and prepare a 9 x 5-inch loaf pan by greasing it and lining it with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, combine the dry ingredients: almond flour, baking powder, sweetener and salt, with the walnut pieces (save some for the top). Stir them together until well combined.
STEP 2: In another bowl, mix the wet ingredients: eggs, softened unsalted butter (melted and cooled), sour cream, mashed banana (if using), banana extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
STEP 3: Slowly add the dry ingredients to the bowl of wet ingredients. Stir gently until the mixture is well incorporated, ensuring there are no dry spots remaining.
- STEP 4: Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
STEP 5: Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it completely cool in the pan, otherwise it may fall apart if removed too soon.
Once completely cooled, slice and serve your delicious sugar-free banana bread. Enjoy!
Remember to adjust the baking time if needed, as ovens may vary.
Other sugar free recipes you might enjoy
Recipe tips
Here are two recipe tips to make the best sugar-free banana bread ever:
- Proper Mixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture. Mix the ingredients until just combined, ensuring there are no dry spots left. This will help maintain a tender and moist banana bread with a light crumb.
- Resting Time: After mixing the batter, allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before baking. This resting period allows the ingredients to fully hydrate and blend together, resulting in a more consistent texture and enhanced flavors. It also helps the bread rise better during baking, giving you a lighter and fluffier final product.
By incorporating this tip, you'll give your sugar-free banana bread an extra boost in taste and texture, making it even more irresistible. Enjoy the delightful results of your patient waiting!
How to store the sugar free banana bread so it stays fresh
To ensure your sugar-free banana bread stays fresh, follow these storage guidelines:
- Cool Completely: Allow the banana bread to cool completely after baking. This will prevent condensation from forming inside the storage container, which can make the bread soggy.
- Wrap Tightly: Wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to retain moisture and prevent it from drying out.
- Use an Airtight Container: Place the wrapped banana bread in an airtight container to provide an additional layer of protection against air and moisture. This will help maintain its freshness and prevent it from absorbing odors from the surroundings.
- Store at Room Temperature: Keep the container with the banana bread at room temperature in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or near sources of heat, as this can cause the bread to spoil faster.
- Consume within a Week: For optimal freshness, it's recommended to consume the sugar-free banana bread within a week of baking. This ensures you enjoy it while it's at its best in terms of taste and texture.
By following these storage tips, you can prolong the freshness of your sugar-free banana bread, allowing you to savor its deliciousness for an extended period. Enjoy every slice!
Recipe variations
Here are five delicious recipe variations for your sugar-free banana bread:
- Berry Blast: Fold in ½ cup of fresh or frozen berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, into the batter. This will infuse the bread with bursts of fruity goodness.
- Cinnamon Swirl: Mix 2 tablespoons of cinnamon with ¼ cup of erythritol to create a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Pour half of the batter into the loaf pan, sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture on top, and then pour the remaining batter. Swirl gently with a knife to create a marbled effect.
- Zesty Twist: Add the zest of one lemon or orange to the batter for a refreshing citrus flavor. The bright and tangy notes will complement the sweetness of the bananas.
- Choco-Chip Indulgence: For a delightful treat, mix ½ cup of sugar free chocolate chips into the batter. The melted chocolate will create pockets of gooey goodness in every bite.
- Coconut Delight: Add ½ cup of unsweetened shredded coconut to the batter. The coconut flakes will provide a tropical twist and a delightful texture to the banana bread. Make sure the coconut flakes are unsweetened to keep it low carb and sugar-free.
These variations allow you to customize your low sugar banana bread, adding extra flavors and textures to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy experimenting with these delightful twists!
Frequently asked questions
Sugar-free banana bread can be a healthier option compared to traditional banana bread recipes that use refined sugar. By using alternative sweeteners or natural sweeteners, you can reduce the added sugar content and still enjoy a delicious treat.
Yes, sugar-free banana bread can be frozen for future enjoyment. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag, and store it in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Some diabetics may advise against consuming bananas due to their relatively higher natural sugar content compared to other fruits. Bananas contain natural sugars, such as fructose, which can affect blood sugar levels. However, the impact can vary depending on factors such as portion size, individual metabolism, and overall dietary habits.
It's important for individuals with diabetes to monitor their carbohydrate intake, including sugars from fruits like bananas, and to work with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian to create a personalized meal plan that aligns with their specific needs and blood sugar management goals.
Sugar Free Banana Bread
Nutrition
Ingredients
- 2 cups almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup powdered sweetener sugar substitute double if not using banana
- ½ cup walnut pieces (save some for topping)
- 3 large eggs
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- 1 small ripe banana (optional - see notes above)
- 1 teaspoon banana extract double if not using banana
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 325°F and grease and line a 9 x 5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Combine the dry ingredients together in a large bowl.2 cups almond flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ½ teaspoon salt, ¼ cup powdered sweetener sugar substitute, ½ cup walnut pieces
- Combine the wet ingredients in a large bowl.3 large eggs, ⅓ cup unsalted butter, ½ cup sour cream, 1 small ripe banana, 1 teaspoon banana extract, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until well combined.
- Transfer the banana bread batter to the loaf pan, top with remaining walnut pieces and bake for 1 hour or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Notes
- Proper Mixing: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense and tough texture.
- Resting Time: After mixing the batter, allow it to rest for about 10-15 minutes before baking. This resting period allows the ingredients to fully hydrate and blend together, resulting in a more consistent texture and enhanced flavors.
This recipe card provides the basic details to make this recipe. For more information, questions or variations please review the content above the recipe card.
Updates and Revisions
If conflicting information between the video and recipe card, the recipe card will always have the most up to date information, ingredients and instructions.
Nutritional Information
All nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered estimates. Actual nutritional content will vary with brands used, measuring methods, portion sizes and more.
Food safety
- Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
- Never leave cooked food unattended
- Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
- Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove
See more food guidelines
Suzanne JacksonSuzanne Jackson
Hi this looks great. Hubby has just been diagnosed with type 2 insulin dependent diabetes so this will help him adjust. My only concern is the 25g of fat as he needs to lose weight this is far too high, any advice on how to cut it down considerably?
Thanks Suzanne
Oscar Chimenti
Swap the sour cream with low fat greek yogurt.