Banana bread is a beloved classic that brings comfort and warmth to any kitchen. However, many traditional recipes rely on eggs, dairy, and other animal products.
If you’re following a vegan lifestyle or simply want a plant-based twist on a classic, this Betty Crocker banana bread recipe vegan adaptation is perfect for you! It keeps the moist, tender crumb and rich banana flavor that you crave, while using simple vegan-friendly ingredients.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Imagine slicing into a loaf that’s perfectly sweet, fluffy, and free from animal products—a treat for everyone at the table!
In this post, I’ll walk you through why this recipe stands out, the ingredients and equipment you’ll need, and step-by-step instructions to get your banana bread just right. Plus, I’ll share tips, variations, nutrition info, and serving ideas to make the most of your vegan banana bread adventure.
Ready to bake? Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan banana bread recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic treat without compromising your dietary preferences. It’s:
- Moist and fluffy: Thanks to ripe bananas and a clever combination of plant-based ingredients, this loaf stays soft and tender.
- Easy to make: No complicated steps or hard-to-find ingredients—just what you likely have in your kitchen already.
- Customizable: Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to suit your tastes.
- Healthy-ish: Using whole wheat flour and natural sweeteners keeps it wholesome.
- Kid-friendly: Everyone loves banana bread, and this version is perfect for kids and adults alike.
- Great for using overripe bananas: Reduce food waste by putting those spotted bananas to delicious use!
Plus, it’s a fantastic base for experimenting with other vegan baked goods, like the rich and creamy Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe or the decadent Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier option)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup organic cane sugar or coconut sugar
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (acts as egg replacer)
- ⅓ cup melted coconut oil or any neutral vegetable oil
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat, etc.)
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- Optional: ½ cup vegan chocolate chips
- Optional: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon for extra warmth
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fork or potato masher (to mash bananas)
- Whisk or spoon for mixing
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- 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.
- In a large bowl, combine the dry ingredients: sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix the wet ingredients: mashed bananas, sugar, applesauce, melted coconut oil, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth and well combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Gently fold with a spatula just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
- Fold in any optional add-ins like chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve. Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Tips & Variations
“For the best banana bread, always use very ripe bananas—those with lots of brown spots or even black skins. They bring maximum sweetness and moisture.”
- Make it gluten-free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, keeping the same quantity.
- Add spices: Nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice can add wonderful depth.
- Swap sweeteners: Use maple syrup or agave nectar for a different flavor profile (reduce liquid slightly).
- Boost protein: Add a scoop of vegan protein powder or a tablespoon of chia seeds.
- Make muffins: Pour batter into a muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes for portable treats.
- Try different nuts: Pecans, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds can add crunch.
For more vegan baking ideas, check out this delicious Collard Green Casserole Recipe or this comforting Costco Vegan Mushroom Stew Recipe.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Slice (1/12 loaf) |
---|---|
Calories | 150 |
Fat | 6g |
Saturated Fat | 4g |
Carbohydrates | 22g |
Fiber | 2g |
Sugar | 10g |
Protein | 2g |
Sodium | 180mg |
Keep in mind these values will vary if you add nuts, chocolate chips, or swap ingredients. This recipe provides a balanced treat perfect for breakfast or dessert.
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread is versatile and pairs wonderfully with many accompaniments. Here are some tasty ideas:
- Spread vegan butter or nut butter like almond or peanut butter for richness.
- Top with fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries or blueberries for a fresh contrast.
- Serve with a hot drink like coffee, tea, or a creamy vegan latte.
- Make it a dessert: Warm a slice and top with a scoop of your favorite vegan ice cream, like the Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.
- Use as a base for a vegan bread pudding or French toast for a weekend brunch treat.
Conclusion
Making a vegan version of the beloved Betty Crocker banana bread is easier than you might think, and the results are simply delicious. This recipe offers the perfect balance of sweetness, moisture, and texture while respecting your plant-based lifestyle.
It’s an excellent way to use up overripe bananas and create a comforting homemade treat that everyone can enjoy. With simple ingredients, straightforward steps, and plenty of room for customization, this banana bread is guaranteed to become a staple in your kitchen.
Don’t forget to explore other exciting recipes to complement your baking journey, like the flavorful Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or the crispy goodness of the Cheese Penny Recipe. Happy baking, and enjoy every bite of your vegan banana bread masterpiece!
📖 Recipe Card: Betty Crocker Banana Bread Recipe Vegan
Description: A moist and flavorful vegan banana bread made with ripe bananas and simple ingredients. Perfect for breakfast or a snack.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT60M
Total Time: PT75M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup granulated 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
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, oil, sugar, almond milk, and vanilla.
- In another bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed.
- Fold in walnuts if using.
- Pour batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 | Protein: 3g | Fat: 10g | Carbs: 30g
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