Vegan Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Vegan Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted coconut oil; 1/4 cup almond milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 cup brown sugar

Highlighted under: Classic Kitchen

When it comes to making a delicious banana bread, I have a soft spot for vegan recipes that are both moist and flavorful. This Vegan Banana Bread Recipe has been a family favorite for years, and I love how easy it is to whip up. With just a few ripe bananas and basic pantry staples, I can create a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. It's a guilt-free treat that satisfies my sweet cravings without compromising on taste.

Created by

Vanessa Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:33:34.872Z

One rainy afternoon, I decided to experiment in the kitchen with some overripe bananas I had left from the week. As I mashed them up, I could already imagine the delightful aroma filling the house. I used coconut oil instead of butter, which not only made the bread vegan but also heightened the flavor. It was my little twist on a classic recipe.

When the banana bread came out of the oven, it was golden brown and absolutely inviting. I was thrilled with how moist it was—thanks to the bananas and a dash of almond milk. The secret is to mix the wet ingredients first before blending them with the dry ones to ensure a smooth batter. This little detail made a big difference in texture!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Incredibly moist and flavorful with the natural sweetness of bananas.
Simple ingredients make it an easy last-minute bake.
Perfect for meal prep or a healthy snack option.

      

Key Ingredients and Their Roles

The star of this Vegan Banana Bread is, of course, the ripe bananas. As they ripen, their starches convert to sugars, contributing both sweetness and moisture to the loaf. It's best to use bananas that are heavily speckled and even blackened for optimal flavor. Coconut oil plays a dual role here, providing healthy fats and adding richness that enhances the bread's moist texture. If you don't have coconut oil, you can substitute it with any neutral oil or even unsweetened applesauce for a lower-fat version.

Almond milk is a fantastic choice in this recipe, imparting a slight nuttiness that complements the bananas perfectly. However, feel free to switch to any plant-based milk, such as soy or oat milk, depending on your dietary restrictions or preferences. Remember that different milks might alter the flavor profile slightly, but the overall result will still be delicious.

Mixing Techniques for Best Results

When mixing your wet ingredients, be sure to mash the bananas thoroughly to create a smooth mixture, which helps the batter rise evenly. You can use a fork or a potato masher; the goal is a consistency without lumps. Once combined with the melted coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract, it's crucial to mix the wet ingredients until the mixture looks homogenous and glossy before folding in the dry ingredients, which helps in activating the baking powder and baking soda effectively.

While combining wet and dry ingredients, remember to fold gently. Over-mixing can lead to a denser bread since it develops gluten, which we want to avoid for a light, airy loaf. Stopping just when you see a few streaks of flour is typically the best method to achieve a tender crumb. It can be tempting to keep mixing, but patience is key here!

Ingredients

Ingredients for Vegan Banana Bread

Wet Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted coconut oil
1/4 cup almond milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients

1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup brown sugar

Instructions

How to Make Vegan Banana Bread

Prepare the Oven and Loaf Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is fully incorporated.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and brown sugar until well mixed.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined, being careful not to over-mix.

Pour into Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.

Bake the Bread

Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, add chopped walnuts or dark chocolate chips to the batter. Also, make sure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness!

Storage Tips

To keep your Vegan Banana Bread fresh, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. It will stay moist at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, I recommend slicing the loaf and freezing individual pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic and store them in a freezer bag. When you're ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature or reheat it in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds.

If you notice your banana bread starting to dry out, consider adding a small slice of bread or a few apple slices to your storage container. This will help maintain the moisture level, as bread tends to absorb moisture from its environment. Just remember to replace the slice as it dries out!

Variations and Add-ins

Feel free to personalize your Vegan Banana Bread by adding mix-ins. Walnuts or pecans contribute a delightful crunch and complement the sweetness of the banana. If you're in the mood for a chocolatey treat, adding 1/2 cup of dairy-free chocolate chips will not only intensify the flavor but also satisfy your sweet tooth. Dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries can also be a fantastic addition, offering a chewy texture.

For a spiced version, add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or pumpkin spice to your dry ingredients. This will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma as it bakes and bring a warm note to your banana bread. Adjust the amount based on your taste preference, but keep in mind that a little bit goes a long way!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour, but it may slightly change the texture.

→ How ripe should the bananas be?

The bananas should be very ripe, with brown spots and a squishy texture for the best flavor.

→ How do I store leftover 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 chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Fold in 1/2 cup of walnuts or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.