Vegan Banana Bread Recipe (with Video)

Vegan Banana Bread Recipe: If you love banana bread but want a healthier, plant-based alternative, then this vegan banana bread recipe is perfect for you! It’s moist, naturally sweet, and packed with delicious banana flavor—all without using eggs or dairy.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this step-by-step guide will help you make the perfect loaf.

Ingredients for Vegan Banana Bread

Essential Ingredients

Before starting, gather the following essential ingredients:

• 3 overripe bananas (the more ripe, the sweeter)
• 1/3 cup coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup maple syrup or coconut sugar
• 1/2 cup plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose or whole wheat flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional but adds warmth)

Optional Add-ins

To customize your banana bread, consider adding:

• ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips
• ¼ cup shredded coconut or dried fruits

Kitchen Tools Required

To make vegan banana bread, you’ll need the following tools:
✔️ Mixing bowls – One for wet ingredients, one for dry
✔️ Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient portions
✔️ Loaf pan – 9×5-inch pan works best
✔️ Whisk and spatula – For mixing ingredients smoothly

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Vegan Banana Bread

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease your loaf pan with oil or line it with parchment paper.
2. Peel and mash 3 ripe bananas in a bowl using a fork until smooth but slightly chunky.
3. Measure and set aside all dry and wet ingredients.

Step 2: Mixing the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, coconut oil, maple syrup, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract.
2. Stir until the mixture is well combined and slightly creamy.

Step 3: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

1. In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
2. Mix well to distribute the ingredients evenly.

Step 4: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Slowly add the dry mixture into the wet mixture.
2. Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together—avoid overmixing, or the bread may become dense.
3. If using nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in now.

Step 5: Baking the Banana Bread

1. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
2. Place it in the preheated oven (350°F/175°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes.
3. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your bread is ready!

Step 6: Cooling and Serving

1. Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes.
2. Transfer to a wire rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing.
3. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for the Perfect Vegan Banana Bread

✅ Use overripe bananas for the best natural sweetness.
✅ Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and fluffy.
✅ Let it cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.

Storage and Shelf Life

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigeration: Lasts up to 7 days in the fridge.
• Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Using unripe bananas – Less sweetness and moisture.
❌ Overmixing the batter – Leads to a dense loaf.
❌ Skipping the cooling step – Can cause the bread to crumble.

Variations of Vegan Banana Bread

• Chocolate Banana Bread – Add ¼ cup cocoa powder and extra chocolate chips.
• Nutty Banana Bread – Mix in ½ cup walnuts or almonds.
• Gluten-Free Banana Bread – Use 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of wheat flour.

FAQs about Vegan Banana Bread Recipe

What makes banana bread vegan?

Vegan banana bread substitutes animal-derived ingredients such as eggs and butter with plant-based alternatives. Common substitutes include flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water for eggs, and plant oils or vegan butters for butter.

Can I use any type of flour for vegan banana bread?

Yes, you can use various types of flour for vegan banana bread. All-purpose flour is standard, but you can also use whole wheat, oat, or gluten-free flour blends depending on dietary needs or personal preference.

How do I ensure my vegan banana bread is moist?

To keep vegan banana bread moist, make sure not to overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Additionally, ingredients like mashed bananas, applesauce, or vegan yogurt help add moisture.

Can I add mix-ins to my vegan banana bread?

Absolutely! You can customize your banana bread with a variety of mix-ins such as nuts, chocolate chips, dried fruit, or spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Just be sure any add-ins are also vegan if you’re sticking strictly to a vegan recipe.

How long does vegan banana bread last?

Vegan banana bread can last up to a week when stored properly in an airtight container at room temperature. For longer storage, you can freeze slices for up to three months, wrapping them individually for easy thawing.

Is vegan banana bread healthier than regular banana bread?

Vegan banana bread can be healthier than traditional banana bread depending on the ingredients used. It often contains less saturated fat and cholesterol, thanks to the plant-based ingredients. However, it’s still important to watch portion sizes as it can be high in sugar.

Conclusion

This vegan banana bread recipe is simple, healthy, and delicious. Perfect for any time of the day, it’s a must-try for anyone looking for a dairy-free and egg-free treat!