Delicious and Moist Weight Watchers Banana Bread Recipe – Low Points, Big Flavor

If you’re looking for a satisfying, healthier version of a classic favorite, this Weight Watchers Banana Bread is the perfect solution. Whether you enjoy it as a quick breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or a delightful dessert, this banana bread offers a deliciously moist texture and a naturally sweet flavor, all while being mindful of your Weight Watchers points.

Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, this recipe is designed to fit perfectly into a healthy lifestyle, with a much lower point value than traditional banana bread. By using a few smart substitutions, you can enjoy a guilt-free slice of this rich, tender banana bread without compromising on taste or texture. Plus, it’s packed with the goodness of ripe bananas, giving you a natural sweetness that won’t spike your blood sugar levels.

This recipe is easy to follow, making it perfect for beginners or seasoned bakers looking for a lightened-up treat. Whether you’re following the WW Freestyle Program, Green, Blue, or Purple, or simply trying to reduce your calorie intake while still enjoying indulgent foods, this Weight Watchers-friendly banana bread is the way to go.

Why Choose This Weight Watchers Banana Bread?
Banana bread is a comforting and timeless recipe that everyone loves. However, many traditional banana bread recipes can be packed with sugar, butter, and flour, making them high in calories and points. The Weight Watchers Banana Bread recipe has been carefully crafted to retain the same delicious flavor and moistness you expect, but with several smart swaps to reduce points.

Reduced Sugar: Instead of using regular sugar, this recipe utilizes natural sweeteners like stevia, which keeps the sweetness intact without adding unnecessary calories or carbs.
Lower Fat Content: By using healthier oils and reducing the amount of butter, the recipe is significantly lighter while still maintaining that satisfying richness and texture that banana bread is known for.
Whole-Grain Flour: This recipe uses whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour. Not only does this add a subtle nutty flavor to the bread, but whole wheat flour is also higher in fiber, which supports digestive health and keeps you feeling full for longer.
Ripe Bananas: The key to perfect banana bread is ripe bananas, which are naturally sweet and rich in potassium, fiber, and essential vitamins. The natural sweetness of bananas reduces the need for added sugars.
Lightened Up Portion Size: The portion size is reduced without sacrificing flavor, making it easier to enjoy a slice while staying on track with your Weight Watchers points.
Let’s dive into the recipe and show you how to make this delicious Weight Watchers Banana Bread, step-by-step.

Ingredients for Weight Watchers Banana Bread
2 ripe bananas (mashed) – the riper, the sweeter
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce – for moisture and a slight sweetness
1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk of your choice)
1 large egg – for binding and structure
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – adds a rich aroma and flavor
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour (or 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour for less fiber but a lighter texture)
1 teaspoon baking powder – to help the bread rise
1/2 teaspoon baking soda – a leavening agent for fluffiness
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon – to enhance the natural flavors of the bananas
1/4 teaspoon salt – to balance the flavors
1 tablespoon stevia or monk fruit sweetener – to provide sweetness without adding extra sugar
1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional) – for added crunch and healthy fats
1/4 cup low-fat yogurt (optional, for extra moisture)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Weight Watchers Banana Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it with cooking spray or lining it with parchment paper. For best results, use an 8×4-inch loaf pan, as this size works well for achieving the perfect loaf thickness.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a medium mixing bowl, take your 2 ripe bananas and mash them with a fork or potato masher until smooth. If you prefer a slightly chunkier texture in your bread, leave some small banana chunks intact. Overripe bananas work best because they’re naturally sweeter and softer, making them easier to mash.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In the same bowl with the mashed bananas, add 1/4 cup applesauce, 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk, 1 large egg, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Stir well to combine all the ingredients into a smooth, wet mixture.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisking the dry ingredients first ensures that the baking powder, baking soda, and spices are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps the banana bread rise evenly.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently to combine. Mix until everything is just incorporated, but be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in dense banana bread, which we want to avoid. The batter should be thick but spreadable.

Step 6: Add Sweetener and Optional Nuts
If you like your banana bread on the sweeter side, add 1 tablespoon stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Stir well to dissolve the sweetener into the batter. If you’re using nuts like chopped walnuts or pecans, fold them in gently. The nuts add a nice crunch and healthy fats to your bread, though you can skip them for a nut-free version.

Step 7: Pour the Batter into the Pan
Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top and make sure it is evenly distributed. You can sprinkle a few extra chopped nuts or a dusting of cinnamon on top for added decoration if desired.

Step 8: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean. The top should be golden brown, and the bread should spring back lightly when touched. Keep an eye on the bread during the last few minutes of baking to prevent over-browning. If the top is getting too dark, loosely cover it with aluminum foil.

Step 9: Let It Cool
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the bread onto a wire rack to cool completely. Allowing the bread to cool before slicing ensures that it firms up and holds together better, making it easier to cut.

Step 10: Slice and Serve
Once the banana bread has cooled, slice it into 8 even slices. You can enjoy it as-is or spread a thin layer of light cream cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt for added flavor. This banana bread can also be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days or frozen for later use.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional information for one slice of this Weight Watchers Banana Bread:

Calories: 150 kcal
Protein: 4g
Fat: 7g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Fiber: 4g
Net Carbs: 15g
Sugar: 6g (mostly from natural sugars in bananas)
Sodium: 140mg
Cholesterol: 30mg
Vitamin A: 2% DV
Vitamin C: 5% DV
Calcium: 4% DV
Iron: 6% DV
This banana bread is light on the carbs but still offers a decent amount of protein, making it a filling choice for breakfast or a snack. The 4g of fiber per slice is great for digestion, and the bananas contribute beneficial vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, and magnesium.

Weight Watchers Points Information (Per Slice)
For those tracking their Weight Watchers points, here’s the breakdown:

WW Freestyle: 4 points per slice
WW Green: 4 points per slice
WW Blue: 4 points per slice
WW Purple: 4 points per slice
This recipe is a great option if you’re looking for a lighter alternative to traditional banana bread that won’t put a dent in your daily points allowance.

Storage Tips and Variations
Storage: To store your banana bread, place it in an airtight container and keep it at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you prefer, you can store it in the refrigerator to extend its freshness by a few extra days.
Freezing: This banana