Banana bread is a beloved classic, cherished for its moist texture and rich, sweet flavor. But what if you want to enjoy this comfort food without any animal products?
Enter the vegan banana bread recipe that is every bit as delicious as the traditional version. This recipe uses wholesome, plant-based ingredients to create a loaf that’s not only good for you but also incredibly satisfying.
Whether you’re vegan, lactose intolerant, or just looking to try something new, this banana bread will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.
Perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a cozy dessert, this vegan banana bread combines ripe bananas, natural sweeteners, and simple pantry staples to deliver a slice of pure joy. Plus, it’s easy to customize with nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to suit your taste.
Ready to whip up something amazing? Let’s dive right into why this recipe is a must-try!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan banana bread is moist, tender, and bursting with banana flavor, making it a crowd-pleaser for all ages. Unlike many vegan recipes that can be dry or dense, this one strikes the perfect balance with a soft crumb and a slight crisp on the edges.
It’s also incredibly versatile. You can add walnuts for a crunchy texture, vegan chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth.
Plus, it’s made with natural sweeteners and no refined sugars, making it a healthier option compared to store-bought versions.
Lastly, this recipe is super easy and quick to prepare, requiring just one bowl and minimal cleanup. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or new to vegan cooking, this banana bread will boost your confidence and satisfy your sweet tooth in no time.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (medium to large, mashed)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or agave nectar
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil or any neutral oil
- 1/4 cup unsweetened almond milk (or any plant-based milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat pastry flour for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional but recommended)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1/3 cup vegan chocolate chips (optional)
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fork or potato masher (to mash bananas)
- Whisk or spoon (for mixing)
- Loaf pan (8×4 inch recommended)
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Oven
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl using a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth with a few small lumps remaining.
- Add the wet ingredients: Stir in the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Fold in optional add-ins such as chopped walnuts or vegan chocolate chips at this stage.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips & Variations
“For extra moistness, try adding a tablespoon of applesauce or a splash of orange juice to the wet ingredients.”
- Use overripe bananas: The riper, the better! Bananas with brown spots are sweeter and mash easily.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, but check the package for baking soda compatibility.
- Add nuts or seeds: For crunch and nutrition, stir in pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or chopped almonds.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a unique twist.
- Make mini muffins: Pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18-22 minutes for portable treats.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Slice (1/10th loaf) |
---|---|
Calories | 180 kcal |
Fat | 7 g |
Saturated Fat | 5 g |
Carbohydrates | 28 g |
Fiber | 2 g |
Sugar | 12 g |
Protein | 2 g |
Sodium | 210 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This vegan banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your experience with a few simple accompaniments. Spread some vegan butter or nut butter on a warm slice for a creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
For a breakfast treat, serve alongside a bowl of fresh fruit or a cup of your favorite plant-based yogurt. It also pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for brunch or an afternoon snack.
If you want to get creative, try toasting the slices lightly and drizzling with maple syrup or your favorite jam. For a decadent dessert, serve with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream like the Goat Milk Ice Cream Recipe No Eggs (vegan alternatives work great too!).
Conclusion
This vegan banana bread recipe embodies everything you want in a homemade treat: wholesome ingredients, simplicity, and delicious flavor. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a classic favorite while embracing a plant-based lifestyle.
With its moist crumb, natural sweetness, and customizable add-ins, you can make this recipe your own every time you bake it.
Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a longtime enthusiast, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Don’t forget to check out other tasty recipes like our Kodiak Banana Muffins Recipe for more banana-inspired goodness or try the Kikkoman Stir Fry Sauce Recipe to complement your savory meals.
For a comforting dessert, the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe is a must-try.
Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of your vegan banana bread!
📖 Recipe Card: Vegan Banana Bread
Description: A moist and flavorful vegan banana bread made with ripe bananas and simple ingredients. Perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast treat.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT60M
Total Time: PT75M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Fold in chopped walnuts if using.
- Pour batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 9 g | Carbs: 32 g
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