If you’re looking for a delightful way to turn those ripe bananas into something truly special, this Healthy Banana Bread with Raisins or Chocolate Chips Recipe is going to become your new favorite. It’s moist, flavorful, and perfectly balanced between sweet and wholesome—plus, the addition of raisins or chocolate chips offers that little extra surprise with every bite. This is not just any banana bread; it’s a cozy, heartwarming loaf that’s easy to make with simple ingredients, making it a treat you’ll want to share (or keep all to yourself!).

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a wooden surface with several baking ingredients neatly arranged in clear glass bowls and a small white plate. From left to right, there is a bowl of light brown sugar, a white plate with a thick square of yellow butter, two brown eggs, two ripe bananas with dark spots on their skins lying next to each other, a large bowl filled with white flour, and four small glass bowls containing salt, baking powder, baking soda, and a small amount of water. There is also a small bowl with dark brown vanilla extract above the eggs. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

To make this Healthy Banana Bread with Raisins or Chocolate Chips Recipe shine, you’ll want to gather some essential, yet straightforward ingredients. Each one is chosen to contribute to the bread’s tender crumb, natural sweetness, and that gorgeous golden hue you can’t resist.

All-purpose flour (1⅔ cups): Provides the perfect structure for a tender loaf.
Diamond Crystal kosher salt (½ tsp): Enhances the natural flavors and balances sweetness.
Baking soda (½ tsp): Helps the bread rise to fluffy perfection.
Baking powder (½ tsp): Gives an extra lift to keep the texture light.
Unsalted butter (½ cup, softened): Adds richness and moisture to every slice.
Sugar (½ cup): Sweetens gently to complement the bananas without overpowering.
Large eggs (2, room temperature): Bind the ingredients and contribute to a tender crumb.
Neutral oil (1 Tbsp): Keeps the bread moist and soft longer.
Pure vanilla extract (1 tsp): Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
Ripe bananas (4, divided): The star ingredient making this healthy and bursting with natural sweetness.
Raisins or chocolate chips (½ cup): Optional but truly delightful mix-ins for added texture and taste.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Healthy Banana Bread with Raisins or Chocolate Chips Recipe

Step 1: Preparing Your Ingredients and Pan

Start by gathering all your ingredients and making sure your eggs are at room temperature for a smooth batter. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line your loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal. This simple setup sets you up for success.

Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Sifting not only blends these ingredients well but also aerates the flour for a lighter crumb in your bread.

Step 3: Creaming Butter and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or a hand whisk, beat the softened butter until creamy. Then, gradually add sugar and continue mixing until the mixture is fluffy and pale yellow, ensuring your bread will have a tender texture and subtle sweetness.

Step 4: Adding Eggs, Oil, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, scraping the bowl often to combine everything evenly. Next, mix in the neutral oil and vanilla extract, which add moistness and a lovely aromatic depth to the bread.

Step 5: Incorporating Bananas

Add three mashed ripe bananas to the wet mixture. It’s okay to leave some banana chunks for delightful little bursts of flavor and texture. The fat and liquids might look a little curdled here, but don’t worry—this is normal and will smooth out once flour is added.

Step 6: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients with Raisins or Chocolate Chips

Gently fold the flour mixture into the banana batter, mixing just until most of the flour has disappeared. Stir in the raisins or chocolate chips now if you’re including them. Resist the urge to overmix, as this can toughen the bread.

Step 7: Baking and Decorating

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Slice the remaining banana thinly and arrange the slices on top for an eye-catching finish. Bake at 350°F (180°C) for about 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cooling and Slicing

Allow your banana bread to cool in the pan for at least 45 minutes before lifting it out. This resting time helps the bread set perfectly. Slice into 1-inch pieces and get ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Healthy Banana Bread with Raisins or Chocolate Chips Recipe

Garnishes

For a beautiful presentation, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top or add a spread of nut butter or cream cheese to each slice. These garnishes boost flavor and make each bite feel a bit more indulgent.

Side Dishes

This banana bread pairs perfectly with a steaming cup of coffee or tea. For a more substantial breakfast, serve alongside fresh fruit or Greek yogurt to balance sweetness and add protein.

Creative Ways to Present

Turn this bread into an elegant dessert by layering slices with whipped cream and fresh berries for a quick trifle. Or, toast a slice and top it with honey and sliced almonds for a delightful afternoon snack that feels fancy yet effortless.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your banana bread slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and keep them at room temperature for 2 to 3 days. This keeps it moist and fresh without losing that tender crumb.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Healthy Banana Bread with Raisins or Chocolate Chips Recipe around longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing. It freezes beautifully for up to three months, making it a convenient treat anytime.

Reheating

Warm your slices in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15-20 seconds to bring back that fresh-baked feel. This little step revives the bread’s softness and enhances its comforting aroma.

FAQs

Can I substitute the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour?

Absolutely! You can swap in whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition. Just keep in mind that using whole wheat may make the bread denser, so you might want to mix half whole wheat and half all-purpose for the best balance.

What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?

Place bananas in a brown paper bag and fold the top loosely. They’ll ripen faster in a day or two, especially if you add an apple or tomato to produce ethylene gas, which speeds up the process.

Can I omit the raisins or chocolate chips?

Yes, you can skip them entirely for a classic banana bread flavor. The bread will still be delicious and moist, perfect for those who prefer a simpler taste or have allergies.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly after baking?

Yes, this banana bread freezes very well. Just slice it first and wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly before freezing. Thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from frozen.

How can I make this recipe vegan?

To make this banana bread vegan, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water per egg) and swap butter for a plant-based alternative. Use vegan chocolate chips if you choose to add them, and you’re good to go!

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Banana Bread with Raisins or Chocolate Chips Recipe is the kind of comfort food that fills your kitchen with warmth and your heart with delight. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s simple, nourishing, and irresistibly tasty. Grab those ripe bananas and give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did.