There’s something truly magical about the aroma of freshly baked banana cake wafting through your kitchen. For those following a plant-based lifestyle, finding the perfect banana vegan cake recipe that’s both moist and flavorful can feel like striking gold.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan baker or simply seeking a delicious way to use up those overripe bananas, this easy banana vegan cake will become your new go-to treat.
This cake is delightfully soft, loaded with banana flavor, and topped with a tender crumb that makes each bite irresistible. You won’t need fancy ingredients or complicated techniques—just wholesome, pantry staples and a touch of love.
In this post, I’ll guide you step-by-step to create a cake that’s not only 100% plant-based but also a crowd-pleaser, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack.
If you enjoy baking vegan treats, be sure to check out my Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for another luscious dessert idea!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Incredibly Moist: Thanks to ripe bananas and plant-based milk, this cake has a tender, fluffy texture that rivals any traditional banana cake.
- Easy Ingredients: All you need are simple, pantry-friendly ingredients—no obscure vegan products or egg replacements required.
- Perfect for All Occasions: Enjoy it as a comforting breakfast, a healthy tea-time snack, or a show-stopping dessert for gatherings.
- Customizable: Make it your own with add-ins like walnuts, chocolate chips, or a swirl of peanut butter.
- Family-Friendly: Even non-vegans will adore this cake, making it a great choice for sharing.
- Zero Dairy or Eggs: Completely plant-based and allergy-friendly, so everyone can indulge.
“This is the kind of cake you’ll want to bake every week—simple, nourishing, and full of banana goodness!”
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to bake the perfect vegan banana cake. For quick reference, see the table below or the detailed list that follows.
Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
Ripe bananas | 3 large (about 1 1/2 cups mashed) | Spotty, overripe bananas work best |
All-purpose flour | 2 cups (250g) | Can substitute half with whole wheat flour |
Organic cane sugar | 3/4 cup (150g) | Or use coconut sugar for less refined option |
Baking powder | 2 tsp | Ensures rise |
Baking soda | 1/2 tsp | Balances acidity and aids rise |
Salt | 1/4 tsp | Enhances flavor |
Cinnamon | 1 tsp | Optional, for extra warmth |
Plant-based milk | 1/2 cup (120 ml) | Almond, oat, or soy all work |
Neutral oil | 1/3 cup (80 ml) | Sunflower, canola, or melted coconut oil |
Apple cider vinegar | 1 tsp | Activates baking soda |
Vanilla extract | 2 tsp | For aroma and flavor |
Optional add-ins | 1/2 cup (60g) | Chopped walnuts, vegan chocolate chips, etc. |
- 3 large ripe bananas (about 1 1/2 cups mashed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour (or 1 cup all-purpose + 1 cup whole wheat)
- 3/4 cup organic cane sugar (or coconut sugar)
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon (optional, but recommended)
- 1/2 cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
- 1/3 cup neutral oil (sunflower, canola, or melted coconut oil)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, vegan chocolate chips, or dried fruit
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (1 large, 1 medium)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or large spoon
- Fork or potato masher (for mashing bananas)
- Rubber spatula
- 8×8-inch square pan or 9-inch round cake pan (or loaf pan for a banana bread shape)
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
- Wire rack (for cooling)
- Oven
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy cake removal.
- Mash the bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until very smooth. A few small lumps are fine, but try to get a mostly creamy texture.
- Add wet ingredients: Stir the sugar, plant-based milk, oil, vinegar, and vanilla extract into the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined and smooth.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Mix wet and dry: Add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Gently fold with a spatula until just combined. Do not overmix, or your cake may turn out dense.
- Fold in add-ins (optional): If using, gently stir in chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit.
- Pour and smooth: Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Use a spatula to spread it evenly.
- Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 32-38 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs (not wet).
- Cool: Remove from the oven. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy! Once fully cooled, slice and serve as is, or frost with your favorite vegan icing.
Tip: If you like a sweeter cake, sprinkle a tablespoon of coarse sugar or chopped nuts on top before baking for a lovely crunch!
Tips & Variations
- Banana Ripeness: The riper (and spottier) your bananas, the sweeter and more aromatic your cake will be. Overripe bananas mash easier and add natural sweetness.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour. Be sure to check your baking powder and other add-ins for gluten content.
- Add-Ins: For crunch and flavor, fold in chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or vegan chocolate chips. Dried cranberries or raisins also work well.
- Spices: For extra warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger along with the cinnamon.
- Frosting Ideas: Top with vegan cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. For a healthy option, try a drizzle of almond butter.
- Make It Muffins: Divide batter into muffin tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 18-22 minutes for easy grab-and-go treats.
“Don’t be afraid to experiment with flavors! This recipe is forgiving and adapts beautifully to your favorite add-ins.”
Discover more easy and healthy vegetable-based dishes in Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or try a savory twist with this Vegetable Crackers Recipe for Healthy Homemade Snacking.
Nutrition Facts
The following table provides an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving, based on 12 servings for the whole cake (without optional add-ins or frosting):
Nutrient | Per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 185 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 33 g |
Protein | 2.6 g |
Total Fat | 6.2 g |
Saturated Fat | 0.6 g |
Fiber | 1.7 g |
Sugar | 13 g |
Sodium | 118 mg |
Potassium | 185 mg |
Calcium | 36 mg |
Iron | 1.1 mg |
Note: Nutrition facts may vary depending on the plant milk, oil, and optional add-ins you use. For more precise information, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic: Serve slices plain, with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
- Frosted: Top with a thick layer of vegan cream cheese frosting, or a simple glaze of powdered sugar and lemon juice.
- Breakfast: Enjoy a slice with a dollop of vegan yogurt and fresh berries for a nourishing breakfast.
- Snack: Pack a square in lunchboxes for a healthy, satisfying snack on the go.
- Dessert: Warm gently and serve with a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of melted dark chocolate.
- Brunch Spread: Cut into small squares and arrange on a platter alongside Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves and fresh fruit for a beautiful brunch table.
“This cake is truly versatile—dress it up for celebrations or keep it simple for everyday snacking.”
Conclusion
Embracing plant-based baking has never been easier, and this banana vegan cake recipe is proof that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture for a compassionate, egg- and dairy-free treat. With its soft crumb, deep banana flavor, and endless customization options, it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen.
Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up those bananas sitting on your counter!
Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, I hope this recipe inspires you to try new flavors and share plant-based goodness with your loved ones. Don’t forget to explore more delicious ideas like my Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe or explore savory options in Vegetable Crackers Recipe for Healthy Homemade Snacking.
For those who love global flavors, you’ll love my Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals as well.
Happy baking! If you make this banana vegan cake, please leave a comment and let me know how it turned out, or tag me in your creations online.
There’s no better feeling than sharing delicious, cruelty-free food with friends and family.
📖 Recipe Card: Banana Vegan Cake
Description: This moist and fluffy banana vegan cake is perfect for breakfast or dessert. It's simple to make and packed with natural banana flavor.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT35M
Total Time: PT50M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 3/4 cup coconut sugar
- 1/2 cup almond milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease an 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, whisk mashed bananas, coconut oil, coconut sugar, almond milk, and vanilla.
- Add flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt; mix until just combined.
- Stir in apple cider vinegar.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 210 kcal | Protein: 2 g | Fat: 8 g | Carbs: 34 g
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