Vegetarian Banana Bread Recipe Easy and Delicious Ideas

Updated On: October 4, 2025

Banana bread is a beloved classic that brings warmth and comfort to any kitchen. This vegetarian banana bread recipe is not only simple to make but also utterly delicious, perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.

Using ripe bananas, wholesome ingredients, and a touch of natural sweetness, this bread delivers moistness and flavor in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is designed to be forgiving and straightforward, making it ideal for all skill levels.

What’s more, this recipe is entirely vegetarian, using no animal products except eggs and dairy, making it suitable for most vegetarians. If you’re curious about vegan alternatives or other healthy plant-based treats, be sure to check out some of our other recipes linked below.

So, get ready to have your kitchen smell amazing and your taste buds delighted with this crowd-pleasing banana bread!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana bread stands out because it strikes the perfect balance between moist and fluffy. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, reducing the need for extra sugar and fats.

It’s a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter!

The recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices based on your preferences. Plus, it comes together quickly with common pantry ingredients, so you don’t need any fancy items to enjoy a homemade loaf.

Finally, this bread keeps well for several days and freezes beautifully, making it a convenient choice for meal prep or quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
  • 1/3 cup melted butter (unsalted)
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3/4 cup sugar (can reduce to 1/2 cup for less sweetness)
  • 1 large egg (at room temperature)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • Optional add-ins: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 9×5 inch loaf pan
  • Fork or potato masher (for mashing bananas)
  • Cooling rack

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
  2. Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl using a fork or potato masher until smooth but still slightly chunky for texture.
  3. Add the melted butter to the mashed bananas and mix well to combine.
  4. Mix in baking soda and salt. These help the bread rise and balance flavors.
  5. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until everything is evenly incorporated.
  6. Add the flour last, folding it gently into the wet mixture until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the bread tender.
  7. If using optional add-ins like walnuts or chocolate chips, fold them in gently now.
  8. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top with a spatula.
  9. Bake for 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

“For extra moist banana bread, try adding a dollop of plain yogurt or applesauce to the batter.”

If you want to make this recipe vegan, substitute the egg with a flax or chia egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with 3 tablespoons water, set for 5 minutes). Replace the butter with coconut oil or a plant-based margarine.

Adding spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can elevate the flavor profile beautifully. Feel free to experiment with mix-ins such as dried fruit, shredded coconut, or seeds for added texture and nutrition.

To avoid a dense loaf, ensure your baking soda is fresh, and do not overmix the batter. If your bananas aren’t quite ripe enough, you can speed up the ripening by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount (per slice)
Calories 200 kcal
Carbohydrates 30 g
Protein 3 g
Fat 7 g
Fiber 2 g
Sugar 15 g

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread tastes fantastic served warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of honey. For a heartier breakfast, serve it alongside a bowl of yogurt and fresh fruit.

It also pairs well with nut butters like almond or peanut butter for an extra protein boost. Try it toasted lightly, then spread with cream cheese or vegan alternatives for a tasty snack.

For a decadent dessert, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream and fresh berries.

Conclusion

Vegetarian banana bread is a timeless, comforting treat that fits perfectly into any meal or snack time. This recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and sure to please everyone in your household.

By using ripe bananas and simple pantry staples, you can create a moist, flavorful loaf that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Whether you’re baking for yourself, family, or friends, this banana bread is a wonderful way to share a moment of warmth and joy. Don’t forget to explore other vegetarian delights such as Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves to expand your baking repertoire.

Happy baking!

📖 Recipe Card: Vegetarian Banana Bread

Description: A moist and flavorful banana bread perfect for a vegetarian diet. Made with ripe bananas and simple pantry ingredients.

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 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
  • 1/4 cup plain yogurt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas and melted coconut oil.
  3. Add brown sugar, yogurt, and vanilla extract; stir to combine.
  4. Sprinkle baking soda and salt over the mixture and mix in.
  5. Add flour and fold gently until just combined.
  6. Stir in chopped walnuts if using.
  7. Pour batter into a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
  8. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
  9. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 9 g | Carbs: 33 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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