Vegan Banana Bread

 

There’s something magical about the smell of banana bread wafting through your kitchen, isn’t there? It’s the ultimate comfort food—warm, soft, and packed with wholesome goodness. Today, I’m excited to share my go-to recipe for Vegan Banana Bread. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just dipping your toes into the world of plant-based treats, this recipe is as simple as it gets.

Banana bread has always been a family favorite in my home. It’s one of those recipes that takes me straight back to cozy mornings with a cup of tea and a thick slice slathered in vegan butter. This version, though, is a total game-changer. It’s entirely plant-based, uses healthier alternatives to traditional ingredients, and still delivers that classic, moist, sweet loaf we all know and love. Plus, it’s super versatile—you can customize it with nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to make it your own.

Let’s jump right in, shall we? Grab those overripe bananas sitting on your counter—they’re about to shine in the most delicious way.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Dry Ingredients:

• Spelt Flour (1 ¾ cups or 210 g): This gives the bread a hearty, slightly nutty flavor. Feel free to substitute with whole wheat, all-purpose, or even a gluten-free blend for a different texture.
• Organic Pure Cane Sugar (1/3 cup or 75 g): Want a refined sugar-free option? Use finely chopped dates instead for natural sweetness.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp) and Baking Soda (1 tsp): The perfect duo for a fluffy loaf.
• A Pinch of Mineral Salt: To enhance all the wonderful flavors.

Wet Ingredients:

• Neutral-Flavored Oil (1/3 cup or 75 ml): Think avocado, melted coconut oil, or even vegan butter. Want an oil-free option? Applesauce works beautifully.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Because who doesn’t love a touch of vanilla in their banana bread?
• Overripe Bananas (3 large or 4 small, about 1 ½ – 1 ¾ cups mashed): The riper, the better! Those brown-speckled bananas are full of natural sweetness and moisture.
• Almond Milk (¼ cup or 56 ml, only if needed): Perfect for adjusting the consistency.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Chopped Walnuts (½ – ⅔ cup) for a nutty crunch.
• Chocolate Chips (¼ – ½ cup): Because chocolate makes everything better.
• Cinnamon (1 tsp): For a cozy, spiced twist.

Step 2: Prep Your Workspace

Before we dive into mixing, let’s set the stage. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your loaf pan. I like to grease mine with a bit of coconut oil, but parchment paper works wonders for easy cleanup. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself later when the banana bread slides out effortlessly!

Step 3: Mash Those Bananas

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, grab a fork and start mashing your bananas. Aim for a mostly smooth consistency with a few small lumps. It’s all about that rustic charm, and those little banana bits will melt into the bread as it bakes, adding an extra burst of flavor.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

To your mashed bananas, add the oil (or applesauce) and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is well-combined. At this point, your kitchen will already start smelling heavenly, thanks to the vanilla and bananas doing their thing.

Step 5: Bring in the Dry Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring it all together. Add the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt to the wet mixture. Using a spatula, gently fold the ingredients until just combined. A few lumps are okay—overmixing is the enemy of fluffy banana bread!

A Quick Note on Consistency

Depending on the type of flour you’re using, the batter might feel a little thick. Don’t panic! If needed, add a splash of almond milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach the desired consistency. The batter should be thick but still easy to pour.

Step 6: Customize with Optional Add-Ins

Before we pour the batter into the loaf pan, let’s talk about add-ins. These are completely optional, but they can take your banana bread from basic to absolutely irresistible.

• Chopped Walnuts: Adding ½ to ⅔ cup of walnuts gives the bread a nutty crunch and pairs beautifully with the banana flavor. I like to toast the walnuts for a few minutes beforehand to bring out their natural oils and enhance their flavor.
• Chocolate Chips: Whether you go for mini or regular chips, ¼ to ½ cup of chocolate chips turns this wholesome treat into a decadent dessert. Bonus tip: sprinkle a few extra chips on top of the batter for a picture-perfect loaf.
• Cinnamon: Stir in 1 teaspoon for a warm, spiced twist. It’s like a hug in every bite.
• Or go wild: Dried cranberries, shredded coconut, or even a handful of seeds (like chia or flax) can be great additions if you’re feeling adventurous.

Gently fold your chosen add-ins into the batter, being careful not to overmix. Every fold is adding a bit more love into your loaf.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

With your batter mixed to perfection, pour it into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top—this helps the bread bake evenly and gives it that polished, bakery-style look. If you’re using chocolate chips or walnuts, you can sprinkle a few on top for an extra hint of what’s to come.

Slide the pan into your preheated oven and set your timer for 50 minutes. Depending on your oven and the type of flour you used, the bread might take up to an hour to bake. Start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, your bread is ready.

Baking Tips for the Perfect Loaf

Here are some pro tips to make sure your vegan banana bread turns out perfectly every time:

1. Don’t Overmix: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, be gentle with your batter. Overmixing activates the gluten in the flour, which can make your bread dense instead of soft and fluffy.
2. Banana Ripeness Matters: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Those black-speckled bananas you were about to throw out? They’re gold for this recipe.
3. Keep an Eye on the Oven: Every oven is a little different. If you notice the top of your bread is browning too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil for the remaining bake time.
4. Don’t Skip the Cooldown: Once the bread is done baking, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step helps the bread firm up, making it easier to slice.

Step 8: Cool and Slice

The hardest part of this entire recipe? Waiting for the bread to cool before you slice it. I know, it’s tempting to dive in right away, especially with the aroma filling your kitchen. But trust me, allowing the bread to cool completely ensures cleaner slices and a better texture. Once cooled, grab a serrated knife and slice away.

How to Enjoy Your Vegan Banana Bread

This banana bread is perfect on its own, but if you’re like me, you’ll want to get creative with your toppings. Here are some ideas:

• Classic: A generous spread of vegan butter or a drizzle of maple syrup.
• Indulgent: Slather on some vegan chocolate hazelnut spread or peanut butter for a decadent treat.
• Breakfast-Ready: Pair a slice with a dollop of coconut yogurt and fresh berries for a wholesome start to your day.

Make It Ahead and Store It Right

One of the best things about banana bread is how well it keeps. Here’s how to store it so you can enjoy it all week:

• Room Temperature: Wrap the loaf in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for 3–4 days.
• Refrigerator: If you prefer your bread slightly chilled, refrigerate it for up to a week.
• Freezer: Want to save some for later? Slice the bread, wrap each slice in plastic wrap, and freeze. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop a slice in the toaster or microwave for a quick treat.

FAQ Section and Conclusion

By now, your kitchen is probably filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked banana bread, and your loaf is cooling on the rack, waiting to be sliced. While you wait, let’s tackle some common questions about making the perfect vegan banana bread. Whether you’re troubleshooting or exploring ways to make this recipe uniquely yours, these tips have you covered.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different flour for this recipe?

Absolutely! Spelt flour gives the bread a slightly nutty flavor, but you can substitute it with whole wheat flour, all-purpose flour, or even a gluten-free blend if needed. Just keep in mind that different flours may slightly affect the texture and bake time.

2. What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?

If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can speed up the process by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or another banana. For an even quicker method, bake the bananas (in their peel) at 300°F (150°C) for 15–20 minutes until they turn black and soft.

3. Can I make this recipe without oil?

Yes! Applesauce is a great substitute for oil in this recipe. Use the same amount of applesauce as you would oil for a moist and fluffy loaf.

4. How can I make this banana bread refined sugar-free?

Swap the cane sugar with finely chopped dates or use a natural sweetener like coconut sugar or maple syrup. Keep in mind that liquid sweeteners may slightly alter the batter’s consistency, so adjust with a little extra flour if needed.

5. Why is my banana bread dense or gummy?

Dense or gummy banana bread usually happens when the batter is overmixed or too wet. Be gentle when mixing and add almond milk only if the batter feels too thick. Also, make sure your baking soda and powder are fresh for a good rise.

6. Can I add other fruits or flavors to this recipe?

Definitely! Fold in blueberries, shredded coconut, or even a handful of dried cranberries for extra flavor. Just make sure not to overload the batter with too many add-ins, as this can affect the texture.

7. How do I store banana bread to keep it fresh?

Keep your banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days or in the fridge for a week. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.

Conclusion: Let’s Bake It and Share the Love!

There you have it—your go-to recipe for the perfect vegan banana bread. Whether you keep it classic or jazz it up with chocolate chips and walnuts, this loaf is sure to become a favorite in your home. It’s simple, delicious, and packed with wholesome ingredients, making it the ultimate treat for any time of day.

One of the things I love most about banana bread is how it brings people together. Share it with family, gift a loaf to a neighbor, or enjoy a slice during a quiet moment with your morning coffee. And don’t forget to get creative—add your own twists to make this recipe uniquely yours.

I’d love to hear how your banana bread turns out! Leave a comment below with your favorite add-ins, any tips you’ve discovered, or just to say hi. If you snap a picture of your creation, tag me on social media—I can’t wait to see your delicious loaves.

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