Healthy Banana Bread with Oats Recipe

Name: Healthy Banana Bread with Oats Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1/2 cup whole wheat flour; 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup; 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Wholesome Kitchen

Enjoy a delicious and nutritious twist on a classic favorite with this Healthy Banana Bread with Oats Recipe. Perfect for breakfast or a snack!

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-03T00:29:34.251Z

This Healthy Banana Bread with Oats is not just a delightful treat; it's packed with nutrients and flavor. The combination of ripe bananas and oats creates a moist, tender bread that everyone will love.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Moist and flavorful with natural sweetness from ripe bananas
Packed with wholesome oats for added fiber
Easy to make and perfect for breakfast or snacks

A Nutritious Start to Your Day

Banana bread is a beloved classic in many households, often enjoyed for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. With this Healthy Banana Bread with Oats recipe, you can indulge your cravings while nourishing your body. Packed with ripe bananas and wholesome oats, this recipe offers a delightful balance of flavor and nutrition that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Oats are a fantastic addition to any diet, as they are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They help to promote digestive health and can even aid in maintaining a healthy weight. By incorporating oats into your banana bread, you not only enhance the texture but also boost the overall health benefits of this beloved treat.

Simple Ingredients for Maximum Flavor

This banana bread recipe features simple, natural ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness, reducing the need for added sugars. Whole wheat flour and rolled oats contribute to a hearty texture while offering essential nutrients. Additionally, using unsweetened applesauce helps to keep the bread moist without unnecessary calories.

Whether you prefer honey or maple syrup, both options add a touch of sweetness and a unique flavor profile to your banana bread. You can also customize your loaf by adding walnuts for a satisfying crunch or chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence. This flexibility makes the recipe easy to adapt to your taste preferences.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Healthy Banana Bread with Oats recipe is versatile enough to suit any occasion. Enjoy a slice for breakfast, pack it in your child's lunchbox, or serve it as a healthy snack for guests. It's an excellent way to use up overripe bananas while providing a nutritious option that everyone will love.

Additionally, this banana bread can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Simply wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week, or freeze it for longer storage. When you're ready for a slice, just pop it in the toaster or microwave for a warm, comforting treat.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your healthy banana bread:

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup rolled oats
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're set to bake!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your healthy banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), and applesauce until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, combine the rolled oats, whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. If desired, fold in walnuts or chocolate chips.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Serve your healthy banana bread warm or at room temperature, and store leftovers in an airtight container.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract to the wet ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Banana Bread

To keep your Healthy Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to prolong its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, which can extend freshness for about a week. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option. Wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with different add-ins to customize your banana bread. Chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even a handful of seeds can enhance both the flavor and nutrition. For a tropical twist, consider adding shredded coconut or pineapple to the batter.

If you're looking for a gluten-free option, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check that your oats are certified gluten-free, as some may be processed in facilities that handle gluten-containing grains.

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your experience with some tasty toppings. Spread a little almond butter or peanut butter for added protein and healthy fats, or top with a dollop of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast.

For a delightful breakfast, serve it warm with fresh fruit on the side, or drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup over the top. Pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea can make for a lovely morning ritual or afternoon break.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use gluten-free flour?

Yes, you can substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for honey?

You can use maple syrup or agave nectar as a substitute for honey.