Tasty Fage Banana Bread Recipe

Fage Banana Bread Recipe is a delicious and moist twist on classic banana bread, made with creamy Fage Greek yogurt for extra richness and flavor. This recipe takes traditional banana bread to the next level by incorporating Fage yogurt, which enhances the texture and adds a subtle tangy depth to the taste.

Using Fage Greek yogurt in baking offers several benefits—it keeps the bread soft and moist, provides a natural protein boost, and balances the sweetness with a slight tang. Plus, it reduces the need for excess butter or oil, making this banana bread a slightly healthier treat without compromising on flavor.

Fage Banana Bread Recipe

Ingredients for Fage Banana Bread Recipe

Here’s everything you’ll need to make a delicious and moist Fage banana bread:

Wet Ingredients:

• 3 large ripe bananas – The riper, the better! Overripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture.
• ½ cup (120g) Fage Greek yogurt – Adds creaminess, extra protein, and a slight tangy flavor.
• 2 large eggs – Help bind the ingredients and create a soft texture.
• ½ cup (100g) brown sugar or honey – Brown sugar adds a deep caramel-like flavor, while honey provides natural sweetness.
• ¼ cup (60ml) melted butter or coconut oil – Keeps the bread tender and rich.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a warm, sweet aroma.

Dry Ingredients:

• 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour – Creates a soft yet slightly dense structure; you can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – Reacts with the yogurt for extra lightness.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional) – Adds a warm and cozy spice flavor.

Optional Add-Ins:

• ½ cup (80g) chopped walnuts or pecans – For a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• ½ cup (90g) chocolate chips – For a sweeter, dessert-like banana bread.
• ¼ cup (30g) raisins or dried cranberries – Adds a fruity, chewy bite.

Directions for Making Fage Banana Bread

Follow these step-by-step instructions to make a moist and flavorful Fage Banana Bread:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

• In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash 3 ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth with a few small lumps.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

• To the mashed bananas, add:
  • ½ cup Fage Greek yogurt
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup brown sugar or honey
  • ¼ cup melted butter or coconut oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Whisk everything together until well combined and smooth.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

• In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices.

Step 5: Mix the Batter

• Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients.
• Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold everything together until just combined. Do not overmix—a few small lumps are okay.
• If using optional add-ins (chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit), fold them in now.

Step 6: Bake the Banana Bread

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
• Place in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes.
• Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

• Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
• Transfer to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing (this helps set the texture).
• Slice and enjoy warm or at room temperature!

Tips for the Best Fage Banana Bread

Follow these expert tips to ensure your banana bread turns out soft, moist, and full of flavor every time!

1. Use Overripe Bananas

• The riper, the better—bananas with brown spots or even fully black skins are perfect. They provide natural sweetness and moisture.
• If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, bake them at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes to soften and enhance their sweetness.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

• Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, which can lead to dense and tough banana bread.
• Stir just until the dry ingredients are incorporated—lumps are fine!

3. Use Fage Greek Yogurt for Extra Moisture

• Greek yogurt, especially full-fat Fage yogurt, helps keep the bread moist, soft, and slightly tangy.
• It also acts as a natural fat substitute, reducing the need for excessive butter or oil.

4. Adjust Sweetness to Taste

• If your bananas are very ripe, reduce the sugar or sweetener slightly.
• Swap brown sugar for honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar for a more natural sweetness.

5. Enhance Flavor with Add-Ins

• Add chocolate chips for a dessert-like twist.
• Mix in walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a crunchy texture.
• Stir in cinnamon, nutmeg, or a splash of almond extract for extra depth.

6. Check for Doneness Correctly

• Use a toothpick test—insert into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
• If the bread browns too quickly but isn’t fully baked, cover loosely with foil for the last 10-15 minutes.

7. Let It Cool Before Slicing

• Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
• This prevents it from crumbling and helps develop the best texture.

8. Store Properly for Freshness

• Wrap the banana bread in plastic wrap or foil and store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving.

Conclusion

Fage Greek yogurt adds a delightful twist to classic banana bread, making it extra moist, rich, and flavorful while providing a natural protein boost. Its creamy texture enhances the softness of the bread, and the slight tang balances the sweetness of ripe bananas. Plus, using Greek yogurt helps reduce the need for excess butter or oil, making this a healthier yet indulgent treat for any time of the day.

If you love banana bread, this Fage Banana Bread Recipe is a must-try! It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and delivers bakery-quality results right from your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or a comforting dessert, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. We’d love to hear about your experience—so be sure to share your results and feedback in the comments!

Feel free to get creative with add-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruit, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor. Baking is all about experimenting and making a recipe your own.