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 cup sugar or coconut sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional); 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen

I absolutely love baking, and this vegan banana bread has become my go-to recipe whenever I have overripe bananas lying around. The satisfaction of turning fruit that would otherwise go to waste into a delicious treat is unmatched. This recipe is not only incredibly easy to make, but it also fills my kitchen with an irresistible aroma. With its perfectly moist texture and wholesome ingredients, it's the kind of banana bread you can feel good about sharing with family and friends. Let’s dive into the magic of vegan baking!

Created by

Phoebe Langridge

Last updated on 2026-01-05T17:58:34.730Z

When I first experimented with this vegan banana bread recipe, I was skeptical about how it would turn out without eggs or dairy. To my surprise, it came out perfectly! The secret is using ripe bananas as a natural sweetener and binder, which makes the bread not only healthier but also incredibly moist.

One tip I must share is to let the banana bread cool for a bit before slicing it. This extra time allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a richer taste. Plus, it makes for cleaner slices if you're planning to share or store some for later!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Delectably moist and fluffy without any animal products
Bursting with flavor from ripe bananas and warm spices
Easy to customize with nuts or chocolate chips

      

Understanding the Ingredients

This vegan banana bread recipe relies on the natural sweetness and moisture of ripe bananas. The more overripe they are, the better! Aim for bananas that are heavily speckled or brown for maximum flavor. Coconut oil not only enhances the bread’s moisture, but it also contributes a subtle coconut flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bananas. If you prefer, you can substitute with another neutral oil, such as vegetable or canola oil, though they may impart less flavor.

Coconut sugar is a great alternative to white sugar, offering a deeper caramel-like taste that complements the bananas. If you are looking to cut back on sugar, using less sugar or a natural sweetener like maple syrup can work, but you’ll need to adjust the liquid ingredients to keep the bread moist. For those looking to enhance the flavor profile even more, adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the banana bread, creating an enticing aroma while baking.

Baking Tips and Techniques

Preheating your oven to the correct temperature is essential to develop that perfect crust while keeping the inside moist. 350°F (175°C) is ideal, but using an oven thermometer can help ensure accuracy, as many ovens can be off by several degrees. When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix; this can lead to a denser bread. Stir just until combined for fluffier results, and gently fold in any add-ins like walnuts or vegan chocolate chips to keep the batter airy.

After baking, let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This resting period helps maintain moisture and makes it easier to remove from the pan without falling apart. Transferring it to a wire rack for complete cooling is crucial, as it allows air circulation around the loaf, preventing sogginess. If you’re eager for a slice, just know that slicing it warm may lead to some crumbling, as the bread needs time to firm up.

Ingredients

Vegan Banana Bread Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted coconut oil
1 cup sugar or coconut sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips (optional)

Mix all ingredients well, ensuring there are no lumps for the best texture!

Directions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil, sugar, and vanilla extract. Stir until well mixed.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if desired.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious vegan banana bread as a snack or breakfast option!

Pro Tips

To ensure the best texture, use very ripe bananas. They should be mostly brown for optimal sweetness and moisture.

Storing and Freezing

To store your vegan banana bread, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will keep well at room temperature for up to three days, or you can refrigerate it for about a week. Just remember that refrigeration can dry it out slightly, so cover it well. If you want to prolong its shelf life, freezing is the way to go. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in aluminum foil or freezer-safe plastic wrap and place it in a resealable bag. Your banana bread will maintain its quality for up to three months in the freezer.

When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply remove it from the freezer and allow it to thaw at room temperature. If you prefer, you can also reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm, comforting treat. This will revive the moist texture, making it feel fresh again.

Creative Variations

This banana bread is a versatile base that can welcome several variations. For additional texture and flavor, consider adding seeds such as chia or flaxseeds to boost nutrition. If you’re a fan of tropical flavors, try folding in some shredded coconut along with your banana mixture. You can also experiment by substituting half of the flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added fiber.

Don't hesitate to add in seasonal ingredients, too! For instance, in autumn, a dash of pumpkin spice can create a delightful twist, while in summer, fresh berries mixed into the batter can provide a refreshing contrast. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and tailor this banana bread recipe to match your cravings or what you have on hand.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of flour?

Yes! You can substitute with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour if desired, although the texture may vary slightly.

→ How long will this banana bread last?

Stored in an airtight container, it will last about 3-4 days at room temperature or about a week in the fridge.

→ Can I freeze vegan banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature.

→ What can I add to the banana bread?

You can add a variety of ingredients such as nuts, vegan chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor.