Vegan Banana Bread Recipe
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
This Vegan Banana Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that everyone can enjoy, whether you’re following a vegan diet or simply looking for a healthier dessert option.
This Vegan Banana Bread is not only easy to make but also a great way to use up ripe bananas. The sweetness from the bananas makes this bread naturally sweet, while the addition of walnuts adds a nice crunch. It's perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and fluffy texture with a hint of cinnamon
- Naturally sweetened with ripe bananas
- Simple ingredients that you likely already have at home
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Vegan Banana Bread is not only a delightful treat for breakfast, but it also makes a fantastic snack or dessert. Whether you're hosting a coffee morning, having friends over, or simply treating yourself, this banana bread fits the bill perfectly. Its comforting aroma fills the kitchen as it bakes, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy a slice together.
Plus, it’s versatile enough to serve at any time of the year. You can enjoy it warm with a pat of vegan butter, or slice it up and serve it with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a scrumptious dessert. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, making it a must-have in your baking repertoire.
Health Benefits of Bananas
Bananas are not only the star ingredient in this bread but also a powerhouse of nutrition. They are rich in potassium, which is essential for heart health and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Additionally, bananas provide a quick source of energy, making this bread a perfect pre-workout snack.
Moreover, the natural sweetness of ripe bananas means you can reduce the amount of added sugar in your recipes. This makes our Vegan Banana Bread a healthier alternative to traditional banana breads, allowing you to indulge without the guilt. Incorporating bananas into your diet has never been easier or more delicious!
Customizable for Everyone
One of the best things about this Vegan Banana Bread recipe is its adaptability. Whether you prefer nuts, chocolate, or dried fruits, you can easily customize it to suit your taste. The optional add-ins like walnuts, pecans, or vegan chocolate chips offer a variety of textures and flavors that can elevate your banana bread experience.
You can also explore different variations, such as adding a dash of nutmeg or a handful of berries for an exciting twist. This means you can make a different version each time you bake, ensuring that you never get bored with this delightful treat!
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips
Mix all ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix for best results!
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, maple syrup, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Combine Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in any optional add-ins if desired.
Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy your delicious vegan banana bread!
Storage Tips
To keep your Vegan Banana Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, where it can last for about a week. Just make sure to wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.
For longer storage, you can freeze the banana bread. Slice it into individual pieces and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a piece whenever you crave it, without the need to bake a fresh loaf every time.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoy your Vegan Banana Bread plain, or add a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness. For a more decadent treat, serve it warm with a scoop of non-dairy ice cream or whipped coconut cream. You can also top it with fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing contrast.
If you're feeling adventurous, try using it as a base for French toast! Just dip slices in a mixture of plant-based milk and ground flaxseed, then cook them on a skillet for a delicious breakfast twist that everyone will love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use gluten-free flour in this Vegan Banana Bread recipe? Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure to choose a blend that is designed for baking to achieve the best texture.
What can I substitute for maple syrup? While maple syrup adds a wonderful flavor, you can also use agave nectar or brown sugar in a pinch. Just remember that the sweetness level may vary, so adjust to taste as necessary.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in a denser loaf.
→ How ripe should my bananas be?
The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
→ Can I freeze this banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil before freezing.
→ How long does this banana bread last?
It can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Vegan Banana Bread Recipe
This Vegan Banana Bread is a deliciously moist and flavorful treat that everyone can enjoy, whether you’re following a vegan diet or simply looking for a healthier dessert option.
Created by: Heidi Lawson
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 1 loaf
What You'll Need
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, maple syrup, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Fold in any optional add-ins if desired.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 34g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 3g