Vegan Banana Bread

Name: Vegan Banana Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-490912H20M46S
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 3 very ripe medium bananas (about 1 2/3 cups mashed, without peel); 1 cup packed brown sugar (or coconut sugar, regular sugar, or granulated sweetener); ½ cup dairy-free milk; ½ cup neutral-flavored oil; 1 tablespoon white or apple cider vinegar (optional); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional); 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour or gluten-free mix); 1 tablespoon baking powder; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; ½ teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; ½ cup chopped walnuts (optional); 1 medium banana, sliced lengthways for topping

By:

Alejandro

Published:

October 11, 2025

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Vegan Banana Bread is a wonderful treat that brings the warmth of home baking right to your kitchen. Whether you’re embarking on a plant-based journey or simply looking to use up some ripe bananas, this recipe is for you. There’s something so comforting about the smell of banana bread baking that instantly makes you feel at home. Each bite is moist and rich, reminding you of simpler times spent with loved ones.

Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also requires minimal ingredients. It’s perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or even dessert. Plus, when you prepare this delightful loaf, you get to savor the incredible sweetness of ripe bananas, combined with a soft, fluffy texture. Seriously, who doesn’t love banana bread? It’s not just delicious; it’s also a great way to enjoy fruit in your diet. So, grab those ripe bananas, and let’s get started on this easy, satisfying recipe!

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is a winner, and let’s talk about why! First off, using ripe bananas is a game changer. They add not just sweetness but moisture as well. The more spots you see on those bananas, the better! This helps provide that rich flavor we all adore.

Then, there’s the chemistry of baking. Baking powder and baking soda play crucial roles, creating that light, fluffy texture we’re after. They work together to help the bread rise beautifully, so it’s not dense.

Also, it’s essential to mix your wet ingredients and dry ingredients separately. This prevents over-mixing and ensures everything blends seamlessly, giving you that perfect consistency in each slice.

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Banana Bread

You’ll fall head over heels for this Vegan Banana Bread! The flavor is rich, with a natural sweetness that hits just right. It’s simple to make but feels like a treat every time.

The texture is incredibly comforting. Each slice has that warm, soft feel, like a hug in bread form. You can indulge any time of day, whether it’s fresh from the oven, paired with coffee for breakfast, or even as a dessert. It truly fits every occasion.

Ingredients for Vegan Banana Bread

To make this delicious loaf, you’ll need the following ingredients:

3 very ripe medium bananas (about 1 2/3 cups mashed, without peel)
1 cup packed brown sugar (or coconut sugar, regular sugar, or granulated sweetener)
½ cup dairy-free milk
½ cup neutral-flavored oil
1 tablespoon white or apple cider vinegar (optional)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour or gluten-free mix)
1 tablespoon baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
½ cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1 medium banana, sliced lengthways for topping

Prepare for Baking

Preheat the Oven

Start by adjusting your oven rack to the lower third position. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grab your 8-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper, leaving some overhang—this will make removing the bread easier later.

Mixing Ingredients

Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash those ripe bananas well. You’re aiming for a thick, lumpy paste. It’s a great way to let out some energy!

Combine Wet Ingredients

Next, add the sugar, dairy-free milk, oil, vinegar (if using), and vanilla (if you like) to the mashed bananas. Mix this all together until everything is nicely combined.

Add Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to sift in the flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Gently mix until just combined. It’s perfectly okay if there are a few lumps—over-mixing will make the bread tough, and we don’t want that!

Fold in Optional Ingredients

If you’re feeling adventurous, now you can fold in the chopped walnuts or any other fun mix-ins you fancy. Not a nut fan? Feel free to skip this step!

Baking the Bread

Pour and Smooth

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth out the top with a spatula, and for an extra special touch, lay the sliced banana on top like a lovely decoration.

Bake

Pop the loaf pan into the oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and if you notice the top getting too brown, tent it with aluminum foil. To check if it’s ready, insert a toothpick; it should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs attached.

Cool and Slice

Cool in the Pan

Once baked, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. This makes it easier to remove later.

Slice and Enjoy

Now, take it out and place it on a cooling rack. Use a sharp serrated knife to slice it up. You can enjoy it warm or let it cool to room temperature. For a delightful twist, toast a slice with some vegan butter or add a scoop of dairy-free ice cream on top!

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy a slice warm with a dollop of almond butter or vegan cream cheese.
Pair it with a cup of coffee or herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Tips for Success

Ensure your bananas are very ripe. The darker the peel, the better the flavor.
Measure your ingredients accurately. This little effort can make a big difference in the outcome.
Avoid opening the oven door too often. This helps maintain a consistent temperature and promotes even baking.

Variations

If you’re in the mood for something different, consider these fun variations:

Add a few tablespoons of cocoa powder for a chocolate banana bread.
Incorporate some shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
Swap out walnuts for pecans, or skip nuts entirely if you prefer a nut-free option.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh:

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To extend its life, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to a month.
For the best flavor experience, let the slices come to room temperature before serving.

FAQs

Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes! Just replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs clinging to it.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just thaw them out completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like nutmeg for a unique twist.
How should I store leftover banana bread?
Wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

This Vegan Banana Bread is not just easy to make; it brings joy and comfort to your kitchen. Each moist slice showcases the natural sweetness of bananas and can be personalized with your favorite flavors. Perfect for those busy mornings or quiet evenings, it’s a treat everyone will love. So why not whip up a loaf and share the magic with family and friends? Happy baking!