There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm slice of banana bread fresh from the oven. This Greek yogurt banana bread recipe takes that classic comfort and gives it an irresistibly moist twist. Whether you’re trying to use up ripe bananas or craving a simple homemade treat, this loaf is a go-to solution. Greek yogurt brings a creamy texture and rich flavor that transforms traditional banana bread into a super moist and delicious slice you’ll want to make on repeat.
This isn’t just another banana bread recipe. It’s one that hits the perfect balance of softness, sweetness, and structure—ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. With ingredients you likely already have on hand, it’s time to make this banana bread your new favorite.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Here’s why this Greek yogurt banana bread stands out:
• Super moist texture: Thanks to mashed bananas and thick Greek yogurt, every bite is soft and tender.
• No mixer required: This easy banana bread recipe comes together in one bowl—less mess, more joy.
• Healthier twist: Greek yogurt adds protein and cuts down on the need for butter or oil, making it a better-for-you choice.
• Perfectly sweet: A blend of brown sugar and ripe bananas gives it the ideal amount of natural sweetness.
• Customizable: Fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or even blueberries to make it your own.
• Freezer-friendly: Make it ahead, slice, and freeze for a quick breakfast or snack.
Whether you’ve tried many banana bread recipes or are just starting, this might become the best banana bread recipe you’ve ever made.
Ingredients
To make this banana bread with Greek yogurt, gather the following simple pantry staples:
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups mashed banana)
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt (or vanilla Greek yogurt for extra sweetness)
• 2 large eggs, room temperature
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• ¼ cup white sugar
• ⅓ cup melted butter (unsalted preferred)
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but recommended)
• ½ cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts (optional)
Tip: Use the ripest bananas possible. The darker and spottier, the better—they’re sweeter and add more banana flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it heats, prepare your loaf pan. Use a 9×5-inch loaf pan, and lightly grease it with nonstick spray, butter, or oil to prevent sticking. For easier removal and cleaner edges, consider lining the pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang on the sides to act as handles.
Step 2: Mash Bananas and Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash 3 very ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher. Aim for a mostly smooth texture with minimal lumps; this ensures even moisture distribution in the bread.
Next, add the following ingredients to the bowl:
• ½ cup Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature for better emulsification
• ½ cup packed brown sugar and ¼ cup white sugar for balanced sweetness
• ⅓ cup melted butter, slightly cooled
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for warm flavor depth
Whisk or stir with a wooden spoon until all the ingredients are well blended and creamy. Make sure no streaks of egg or unmixed banana remain.
Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients Separately
In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients:
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but adds warmth and complexity)
Whisk until the mixture looks uniform and no clumps remain. This step evenly distributes the leavening agent and salt, which is crucial for proper rise and flavor.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients Carefully
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture in three parts, gently folding with a spatula or wooden spoon after each addition.
Mix just until you no longer see dry flour—do not overmix, or your banana bread may become tough or dense.
If desired, fold in:
½ cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped nuts
Stir gently to incorporate evenly without overworking the batter.
Step 5: Pour Batter into Pan and Smooth Top
Scrape the banana bread batter into your prepared loaf pan using a rubber spatula. Use the spatula to spread the batter evenly, especially into the corners, and smooth the top for a clean rise. If you want a decorative finish, sprinkle a few chocolate chips or sliced bananas on top before baking.
Step 6: Bake Until Perfectly Done
Place the pan in the center of your preheated oven. Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, depending on your oven and pan type.
Begin checking at the 55-minute mark. Insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf—if it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the bread is done.
If needed, loosely cover the top with foil during the last 10–15 minutes to prevent over-browning.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Remove the banana bread from the oven and place the pan on a cooling rack. Let it sit in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes to allow the structure to set.
Then, use the parchment overhang or a knife to carefully lift or loosen the loaf from the pan. Transfer it to the wire rack to cool completely—at least 1 hour—before slicing.
Slicing too soon may cause the bread to crumble or feel gummy inside.
Pro Tips and Variations
Tips for Perfect Banana Bread:
• Use room temperature eggs for a better blend and lift.
• Don’t overmix the batter—it leads to dense, dry bread.
• Mash bananas well to avoid clumps in the batter.
• Measure flour properly by spooning and leveling, not scooping.
Delicious Variations:
• Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add ½–¾ cup of semi-sweet chips for a dessert-like touch.
• Walnut Banana Bread: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts for crunch and depth.
• Blueberry Banana Bread: Fold in 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries (tossed in a little flour to prevent sinking).
• Cinnamon Swirl: Layer in a brown sugar-cinnamon mix for a bakery-style finish.
Serving Suggestions
This moist banana bread made with Greek yogurt is versatile and always welcome:
• Breakfast: Serve with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
• Snack: Slice and pack it for a midday energy boost.
• Dessert: Toast lightly and top with a smear of nut butter or cream cheese.
• On-the-go: Wrap slices in parchment paper for a grab-and-go treat.
• With toppings: Add a drizzle of honey or spread of Greek yogurt on top for extra richness.
It also pairs beautifully with fruit salad, yogurt bowls, or a warm latte for a complete morning experience.
Conclusion
This Greek yogurt banana bread recipe brings everything you love about traditional banana bread and makes it even better. With just the right amount of sweetness, a super moist crumb, and the wholesome richness of yogurt, it’s easy to see why this loaf might just be the best banana bread recipe you’ve ever tried.
Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this is the kind of recipe you’ll want to bookmark, double, and share. So grab those ripe bananas and make this recipe today—it might become your new classic.
Greek Yogurt Banana Bread
Ingredients
Banana Bread Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas mashed (about 1½ cups)
- 0.5 cup Greek yogurt plain or vanilla
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 0.5 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.25 cup white sugar
- 0.33 cup butter melted and slightly cooled
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon optional
- 0.5 cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts optional mix-ins
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Step 2: In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add Greek yogurt, eggs, brown sugar, white sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix well until the batter is creamy and fully combined.
- Step 3: In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon.
- Step 4: Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Do not overmix. Fold in chocolate chips or walnuts if using.
- Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Step 6: Bake for 55–65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Step 7: Cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 16g
- Protein: 5g
FAQs
What does Greek yogurt do in baking?
Greek yogurt adds moisture, creaminess, and richness to baked goods. It also provides acidity that helps activate baking soda, making the bread rise beautifully.
What should not be mixed with yogurt?
Avoid mixing yogurt with very hot liquids, as it can curdle. Also, ingredients high in acid like lemon juice should be added carefully if heating, as they can alter the texture.
How to add more banana flavor to banana bread?
Use very ripe bananas—those with dark brown spots. You can also add a dash of banana extract or reduce the sugar slightly to let the banana flavor shine.
What is the secret to moist banana bread?
The key is using moist ingredients like mashed bananas and Greek yogurt. Avoid overmixing the batter, and don’t overbake—check for doneness at the 55-minute mark.
Why put sour cream in banana bread?
Sour cream is another way to add richness and moisture. It has a similar effect to Greek yogurt and can be used as a substitute if needed.
Can you put chocolate in banana bread?
Absolutely. Chocolate chips or chunks make banana bread extra indulgent. Fold them in gently before baking for the best results.
