Warm, comforting, and utterly delicious, banana walnut bread is a timeless treat that has won hearts worldwide. But what if you want to enjoy this classic without any animal products?
Enter the vegan banana walnut bread recipe – a moist, flavorful loaf that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the satisfying crunch of toasted walnuts, all without eggs, dairy, or any animal-derived ingredients.
This recipe is perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even a dessert. It’s easy to make, uses simple pantry staples, and is a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas.
Whether you’re vegan, have dietary restrictions, or just want a healthier alternative to traditional banana bread, this vegan version will not disappoint. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make every bite both nourishing and indulgent.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan banana walnut bread is a crowd-pleaser for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly moist and tender thanks to the ripe bananas and plant-based milk.
The walnuts add a delightful texture and a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
Additionally, it’s super easy to whip up — no need for complicated vegan substitutes or specialty ingredients. You’ll also appreciate that it’s free from refined sugars if you choose natural sweeteners, making it a healthier option.
Lastly, this recipe is versatile. You can customize it by adding chocolate chips, spices, or other nuts to suit your taste.
It’s a recipe that’s as flexible as it is delicious!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (about 1 ½ cups mashed)
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil (or any neutral oil)
- ½ cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour for a healthier option)
- ½ cup oat flour (or finely ground oats)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped walnuts (toasted for extra flavor)
- ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
- Optional: ¼ cup vegan chocolate chips or shredded coconut
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (medium and large)
- Fork or potato masher (for mashing bananas)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spoon (for mixing)
- Loaf pan (8.5 x 4.5 inches recommended)
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare your loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it lightly with oil.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large bowl using a fork or potato masher until smooth but still a bit chunky for texture.
- Add the wet ingredients: Stir in the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and plant-based milk. Mix until fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, oat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined — avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts and any optional add-ins like vegan chocolate chips or shredded coconut.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top browns too quickly, loosely tent with foil.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Slice and enjoy! This bread is delightful warm or at room temperature and keeps well for several days wrapped tightly.
Tips & Variations
“For an extra moist loaf, use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots. You can also substitute some of the flour with almond flour for a nuttier flavor.”
- Nut-Free Option: Replace walnuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
- Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free all-purpose blend instead of wheat flour.
- Sweetener Swap: Substitute maple syrup with coconut sugar or date syrup for different flavor profiles.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground ginger for warming spices.
- Chocolate Lovers: Mix in ½ cup vegan chocolate chips or chunks for a decadent touch.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Slice (1/10 loaf) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Fiber | 3 g |
Protein | 3 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Saturated Fat | 3.5 g |
Sugar | 12 g |
Sodium | 180 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This banana walnut bread is delicious on its own, but here are some delightful ways to enjoy it even more:
- Spread with vegan butter or nut butter for extra richness.
- Top with fresh fruit slices like strawberries or blueberries.
- Serve alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
- Use toasted slices as the base for a vegan French toast breakfast.
- Pair with a scoop of vegan ice cream for a comforting dessert (try our Goat Milk Ice Cream Recipe No Eggs for inspiration).
Conclusion
Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to enjoy a healthier, plant-based version of a classic favorite, this banana walnut bread recipe is a fantastic choice. It’s moist, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients that make it both nourishing and indulgent.
The ease of preparation and adaptable nature of the recipe make it a staple you’ll want to return to time and again.
Don’t forget to experiment with the variations to find your perfect loaf, and share it with loved ones for a comforting homemade treat. For more delicious vegan baking inspiration, check out our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe or our easy Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe for a quick meal companion.
If you love banana bread, you might also enjoy the sweet twist of our Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.
📖 Recipe Card: Banana Walnut Bread Recipe Vegan
Description: A moist and flavorful vegan banana walnut bread perfect for breakfast or snack. Made with ripe bananas, crunchy walnuts, and plant-based ingredients.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT60M
Total Time: PT75M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, maple syrup, coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Fold in chopped walnuts gently.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 11 g | Carbs: 28 g
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