Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Greek Yogurt Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze is a deliciously moist and flavorful twist on traditional banana bread. The Greek yogurt adds richness and a slight tang, while the ripe bananas provide natural sweetness. Topped with a decadent brown sugar pecan glaze, this banana bread becomes an irresistible treat, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack. The warm, nutty glaze adds an extra layer of texture and flavor that perfectly complements the soft bread.

Greek Yogurt Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze Recipe

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread:

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, unsweetened)
1/4 cup melted butter
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

For the Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze:

1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1/4 cup chopped pecans
Pinch of salt

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Prepare the Banana Bread Batter: In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and combined.
Add the Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Avoid over-mixing.
Add Nuts (Optional): If you’re using nuts, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.
Bake the Banana Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Glaze: While the bread is baking, make the brown sugar pecan glaze. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar, heavy cream, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a gentle boil and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the glaze thickens.
Add the Pecans: Remove the glaze from the heat and stir in the chopped pecans. Allow it to cool slightly.
Glaze the Banana Bread: Once the banana bread has cooled, drizzle the brown sugar pecan glaze over the top of the bread.
Serve and Enjoy: Slice the banana bread and enjoy the perfect combination of sweet banana bread and crunchy, sweet pecan glaze.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 8-10
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 60-70 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes – 1 hour 25 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a more decadent banana bread.
Maple Glaze: If you prefer a maple flavor, swap the brown sugar in the glaze for maple syrup for a delicious twist.
Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free yogurt and plant-based butter to make this recipe dairy-free.
Spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for extra warmth in the bread.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: This banana bread freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To reheat, simply place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or toast it for a few minutes for a warm, crisp edge.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly. Just thaw them and mash them before using in the recipe.

2. Can I make this banana bread without the glaze?

Yes, the banana bread is delicious on its own without the glaze. However, the glaze adds a rich, nutty sweetness that takes it to the next level!

3. Can I substitute Greek yogurt with regular yogurt?

Yes, you can use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt, but Greek yogurt provides extra creaminess and tang that makes the bread extra moist.

4. Can I use a different nut in the glaze?

Yes, you can use any nuts you prefer, such as walnuts, almonds, or even pecans in the banana bread itself.

5. How do I know when the banana bread is fully baked?

The bread is done when a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. If it’s still wet, bake for a few more minutes and check again.

6. How can I make this recipe without sugar?

You can substitute the sugar with a natural sweetener like maple syrup, honey, or a sugar substitute. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the texture.

7. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to make this recipe gluten-free.

8. Can I make this bread in a different pan?

Yes, you can make this banana bread in muffin tins or a mini loaf pan. Just adjust the baking time accordingly, as muffins will bake faster (about 20-25 minutes).

9. Can I make this banana bread ahead of time?

Yes, this banana bread can be made a day ahead. It actually gets more flavorful as it sits. Just store it in an airtight container.

10. How can I make the glaze thicker?

If your glaze is too thin, continue simmering it for a few more minutes until it thickens to your liking. Be careful not to burn it!

Conclusion

Greek Yogurt Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Pecan Glaze is the perfect sweet treat for any occasion. The moist banana bread paired with the rich, nutty glaze makes each bite a delight. Whether you’re looking for a new banana bread recipe to try or want to elevate your usual recipe, this one is sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the soft, tender bread and the irresistible glaze – it’s a perfect match!