If you are a fan of classic banana bread but crave something irresistibly rich and tender, this Ultra-Moist Greek Yogurt Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze Recipe is about to become your new favorite baking adventure. Imagine a loaf that is softly crumbed yet dense with natural banana sweetness, brightened perfectly by the tang and creaminess of Greek yogurt, then topped with a luxuriously sticky glaze loaded with the warm crunch of toasted pecans and the deep caramel notes of brown sugar. This recipe doesn’t just satisfy your sweet tooth; it elevates banana bread to an entirely new level of deliciousness that you’ll be excited to share every chance you get.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building the bread’s moist texture, that tender crumb, and of course, the mouthwatering glaze on top. The simplicity of the ingredients makes this loaf approachable, yet the thoughtful combination guarantees a taste that feels like a truly special treat.
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure while keeping it light enough for a perfect crumb.
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel flavor and contributes moisture that keeps the bread ultra-soft.
- Ripe bananas: Naturally sweet and packed with flavor, these are essential for that classic banana bread taste and moistness.
- Greek yogurt: This ingredient is a game changer, bringing tang and extra moisture that creates an exceptionally tender texture.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and enhance the bread’s richness and rise.
- Neutral oil: Keeps the bread wonderfully moist and tender without overshadowing the other flavors.
- Chopped pecans: For the glaze, offering a delightful crunch and nutty warmth to complement the sweetness.
- Butter, milk, and vanilla extract: These ingredients form the luscious, sticky brown sugar pecan glaze that finishes the loaf beautifully.
How to Make Ultra-Moist Greek Yogurt Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze Recipe
Step 1: Prepare dry ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This careful mixing ensures the spices and leavening agents evenly distribute, laying the groundwork for a perfectly risen, flavorful banana bread.
Step 2: Mix wet ingredients
In a separate large bowl, combine the brown sugar, neutral oil, eggs, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and mashed ripe bananas. Whisk until you get a smooth batter. This mixture packs the moisture and richness that makes this banana bread ultra-soft, while the Greek yogurt adds a subtle tang that brightens the flavors.
Step 3: Combine wet and dry mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet bowl with a spatula or spoon, mixing just until everything is combined. This step is crucial because overmixing can lead to a tough loaf. The goal is a harmonious blend that keeps your bread tender and light.
Step 4: Bake the bread
Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and place it in the oven. Bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will fill with an irresistible aroma that perfectly captures the essence of banana and warm spices.
Step 5: Create the brown sugar pecan glaze
While the bread cools, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar and milk until the mixture is smooth and bubbling gently. Remove from heat and mix in vanilla extract and chopped pecans—this glaze will add a glossy, crunchy topping that beautifully contrasts the soft bread.
Step 6: Glaze and serve
Drizzle the brown sugar pecan glaze generously over the cooled banana bread. Let the glaze set for a few minutes before slicing so each piece boasts that perfect sticky, nutty finish.
How to Serve Ultra-Moist Greek Yogurt Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze Recipe
Garnishes
Although the brown sugar pecan glaze already shines as a star topping, adding a sprinkle of extra toasted pecans or a light dusting of cinnamon can elevate the presentation and give an inviting aroma. A dollop of whipped cream or a smear of softened cream cheese is also divine for an extra indulgent twist.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with morning coffee or afternoon tea. For a sweet-salty combo, serve it alongside a small bowl of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey. You can also complement it with fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples to balance sweetness and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re impressing guests, slice the bread thick and toast it lightly for a warm, slightly crispy edge that contrasts the soft interior, then spread with honey butter or cream cheese. You can also transform slices into decadent French toast for breakfast or brunch, soaking them in egg mixture and pan-frying until golden, then topping with the pecan glaze.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for about 3 to 4 days, making it perfect for quick snacks or breakfast treats throughout the week.
Freezing
This Ultra-Moist Greek Yogurt Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep for up to 3 months, ready to thaw and enjoy whenever a banana bread craving strikes.
Reheating
To revive that freshly baked warmth and softness, reheat banana bread slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds. If frozen, thaw slices at room temperature first to avoid sogginess. A quick toast brings back the bread’s tender crumb and enhances the nutty aroma of the glaze.
FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Using Greek yogurt adds a thick creaminess and slight tang that contributes to the ultra-moist texture. Regular yogurt can work in a pinch, but it may make the batter a bit runnier and result in a less dense bread. If you substitute, try to use a strained variety to keep the texture close to the original.
Do I need to peel and mash the bananas myself?
Yes! Freshly mashed ripe bananas make a huge difference in flavor and texture. Overripe bananas with brown spots are perfect as they are sweeter and easier to mash, ensuring that wonderful natural banana flavor shines through.
Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Substituting gluten-free all-purpose flour blend should work fine, but results may vary. Look for a blend that contains xanthan gum for structure, and keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free breads sometimes bake a bit faster or slower.
Is the brown sugar pecan glaze necessary?
The glaze is what sets this recipe apart by adding that delightful sticky sweetness and crunchy pecan texture. While you could enjoy the bread plain, the glaze really elevates every bite and is highly recommended if you want the full experience.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The riper, the better! Bananas that are heavily speckled or nearly black on the outside are at peak sweetness and moisture. Using very ripe bananas ensures the banana bread is flavorful and moist, avoiding any blandness from underripe fruit.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about a slice of homemade banana bread, and this Ultra-Moist Greek Yogurt Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze Recipe truly takes that comforting feeling to the next level. With its tender crumb, luscious banana flavor, and irresistible glaze, it’s a recipe that invites smiles and second helpings. I encourage you to give this one a try—your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!
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Ultra-Moist Greek Yogurt Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This ultra-moist Greek Yogurt Banana Bread features ripe bananas and a tender crumb, enhanced with the tang of Greek yogurt. Finished with a rich brown sugar pecan glaze, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and nutty crunch, making it an irresistible treat for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 3 medium ripe bananas
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup neutral oil
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the bread.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, blend the brown sugar, neutral oil, eggs, Greek yogurt, vanilla extract, and mashed ripe bananas until the mixture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing which can make the bread dense.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Prepare the Glaze: While the bread bakes, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar and milk, stirring continuously until smooth. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and chopped pecans.
- Apply Glaze: Once the banana bread has cooled, drizzle the brown sugar pecan glaze generously over the top before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread light and tender.
- The glaze can be stored separately and added just before serving to maintain its texture.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans in the glaze or replace with seeds.
- Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
