Vegan Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Vegan Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 large ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted coconut oil; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Daily Meals

I’ve been on a quest to create the perfect vegan banana bread, and I think I finally nailed it! This recipe combines ripe bananas and wholesome ingredients to produce a loaf that’s moist, flavorful, and satisfying. I love how simple it is to throw everything together, and the aroma that fills my kitchen while it bakes is absolutely irresistible. Whether enjoyed as a breakfast treat or a sweet snack, this banana bread has quickly become a family favorite, and I can’t wait for you to try it too!

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:49:34.764Z

Through trial and error, I discovered the perfect blend of ingredients that not only keeps the bread moist but also adds a wonderful depth of flavor. For instance, using flaxseed meal as an egg replacement not only binds the mixture but also enriches it with nutrients. I also experimented with different spices, and a pinch of cinnamon truly brought the banana flavor to life.

When baking, remember to use very ripe bananas; the darker the peel, the sweeter the bread! This not only enhances the natural sweetness but also adds a rich flavor that truly elevates the loaf. I suggest letting the bread cool completely before slicing, as this helps maintain its structure and moisture.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously moist texture that melts in your mouth
Perfectly balanced sweetness from ripe bananas
Simple ingredients that are easy to find

      

Tips for Perfect Banana Bread

To achieve that perfectly moist texture, it's essential to use ripe bananas. The more brown spots on the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Ideally, they should almost be mushy; this not only sweetens the banana bread but also enhances its moisture content. If you find yourself short on ripe bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.

Mixing the batter should be done gently to avoid overworking the gluten in the flour, which can lead to a dense loaf. Use a spatula or wooden spoon, and mix until the flour is just incorporated. It's okay if there are a few small lumps; they’ll bake out. A quick tip: if you notice your mixture is too thick, adding a tablespoon of plant-based milk can help achieve a smoother batter without compromising the recipe's integrity.

Ingredient Insights

Coconut oil plays a dual role in this recipe: it adds a rich flavor and contributes to the moist texture. If you're not a fan of coconut oil, you can replace it with vegetable oil or melted vegan butter, but keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor. Additionally, using organic brown sugar gives a depth of flavor; its molasses content complements the sweetness of the bananas beautifully.

If you want to make this banana bread gluten-free, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum, as this helps mimic the structure and chewy texture that gluten provides. As a variation, try incorporating other spices like nutmeg or cardamom for added warmth and complexity in flavor.

Ingredients

Gather these wholesome ingredients to make your vegan banana bread:

Ingredients

3 large ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted coconut oil
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before pouring into a loaf pan.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your vegan banana bread:

Prepare the Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with melted coconut oil. Stir in the brown sugar and vanilla extract until well combined. Add baking soda and salt, mixing well.

Combine the Dry Ingredients

Gently fold in the flour (and cinnamon, if using) until just combined. Be careful not to over-mix.

Add the Walnuts

If you're using walnuts, fold them into the batter until evenly distributed.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool on a wire rack before slicing.

Enjoy your vegan banana bread warm or at room temperature!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, add chocolate chips or dried fruits like cranberries for added sweetness and texture.

Storage and Freezing

To store your banana bread, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, slice the bread and place the pieces in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop the slices in the toaster for a warm treat.

If you want to maintain the moisture and avoid freezer burn, I recommend labeling your bag with the date it was frozen. This can help keep track of how fresh your banana bread is. This method is perfect for meal prepping or making ahead for busy mornings!

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your vegan banana bread plain, or elevate it by spreading a generous layer of almond or peanut butter on each slice for a protein-packed snack. Additionally, consider serving it with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness. Pair it with your favorite plant-based yogurt to create a balanced breakfast that’s both delicious and nutritious.

For a festive twist, you can transform this banana bread into a dessert by adding chocolate chips or a swirl of almond butter into the batter before baking. Experimenting with toppings can also bring new dimensions; try chopped fresh fruit or a dollop of coconut whipped cream for a delightful indulgence!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.

→ How can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I freeze the banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

→ What can I use instead of brown sugar?

You can use coconut sugar or white sugar in a pinch, although it may slightly alter the flavor.