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 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted coconut oil; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup brown sugar; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Highlighted under: Classic Collection

I absolutely love baking, and this Vegan Banana Bread Recipe has become one of my go-to treats whenever I have overripe bananas. The combination of sweet bananas and warm spices fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma. I appreciate how easy it is to whip up, requiring just a few simple ingredients that I usually have on hand. Plus, it's a guilt-free indulgence that satisfies my cravings without compromising my dietary choices. Each bite is moist and flavorful, making it impossible to eat just one slice!

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-06T14:33:34.937Z

When I first experimented with vegan baking, I was amazed at how approachable it was. This Vegan Banana Bread Recipe quickly became a favorite in my home, and I often bake a loaf to share with friends and family. The process is straightforward, and I've discovered that adding a splash of vanilla extract amplifies the flavor, making it even more delicious. I love that it’s so adaptable; you can throw in nuts or chocolate chips as you please!

Another tip I learned is to always use very ripe bananas, as they contribute natural sweetness and moisture to the bread. I sometimes mash the bananas with a fork, but blending them gives a smoother consistency that's perfect for the batter. Trust me, you won’t find a more satisfying, plant-based treat that’s this simple to make!

        Why You'll Love This Vegan Banana Bread
        Moist and fluffy texture that rivals traditional bread
Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas, no added sugars
Versatile recipe allows customization with nuts or chocolate

      

Ingredient Insights

Using ripe bananas is essential for the ideal sweetness and moisture in this recipe. The natural sugars in the bananas caramelize as they bake, resulting in a tender crumb and rich flavor. Aim for bananas that have brown spots on the peel, as they will be sweeter and easier to mash, giving your bread that perfect texture.

Coconut oil not only adds moisture to the bread but also imparts a subtle tropical flavor. If you don't have coconut oil on hand, you can substitute it with any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil. The key is to ensure your oil is melted before mixing with the wet ingredients to achieve a smooth batter without clumps.

Techniques for Perfect Banana Bread

Mixing your wet and dry ingredients separately is critical to avoid overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense bread rather than the moist, fluffy texture you want. When combining the two mixtures, stir until you see no dry flour; it’s okay if the batter is slightly lumpy. This tenderness will hold up wonderfully in the oven.

When baking, place your bread in the center of the oven for even heat distribution. If possible, avoid opening the oven door in the first 30 minutes to prevent collapse. You’ll know the bread is done when the edges turn golden and a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

To keep your banana bread fresh, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its life, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it at room temperature and reheat slices in the toaster or microwave for that fresh-baked feel.

This banana bread is incredibly versatile; you can add a cup of chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips to the batter for an extra flavor boost. For a spicy twist, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg alongside the cinnamon. Whether enjoyed warm with a smear of vegan butter or as a lunchbox treat, this bread is sure to impress!

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create the perfect loaf:

Main Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted coconut oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Feel free to add nuts or dark chocolate chips for extra flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to bake your delicious Vegan Banana Bread:

Preheat Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a bowl, mix the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

Combine Mixtures

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and enjoy your warm, freshly baked Vegan Banana Bread!

Pro Tips

Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness. You can also substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier texture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your banana bread is too dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Always mix until just combined to maintain the lightness of the bread. If you notice your bread sinking in the middle as it cools, it could be underbaked; make sure to stick to the recommended baking time and perform the toothpick test to confirm doneness.

On the other hand, if the top of your bread is browning too quickly while the center remains uncooked, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while allowing the inside to finish baking. This is especially useful in older ovens where heat distribution may not be even.

Flavor Enhancements

Consider experimenting with different spices to enhance the flavor profile of your banana bread. Besides cinnamon, ginger or allspice can add warmth and complexity. You can also incorporate vanilla extract to intensify the overall sweetness, balancing the flavors beautifully.

For an added nutritional boost, try folding in 1/4 cup of chia seeds or flaxseeds into the batter. These ingredients not only enhance the bread’s texture but also provide healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making your banana bread a more wholesome treat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before using.

→ How should I store the banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

→ Can I add nuts or other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips make excellent additions.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

No, but you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.