Vegan Banana Bread Recipe (Moist, Fluffy & Easy to Make)

There’s nothing quite like the smell of warm banana bread fresh out of the oven. This vegan banana bread is moist, fluffy, naturally sweetened, and bursting with banana flavor—all without eggs or dairy! Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a healthy dessert, this one-bowl banana bread recipe is perfect for any occasion.

The best part? It’s super easy to make with simple pantry ingredients, and you can customize it with mix-ins like chocolate chips, nuts, or spices. Let’s dive into the ultimate vegan banana bread recipe that’s guaranteed to become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Vegan Banana Bread

✔ 100% Dairy-Free & Egg-Free – made with wholesome, plant-based ingredients.
✔ Incredibly Moist & Fluffy – The perfect texture without being too dense.
✔ Naturally Sweetened – Uses ripe bananas and maple syrup for sweetness.
✔ One-Bowl Recipe – Minimal cleanup and super easy to make.
✔ Customizable – Add chocolate chips, nuts, or spices to make it your own!

Ingredients for Vegan Banana Bread

Dry Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a heartier texture)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the bread rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.

Wet Ingredients:

• 3 large ripe bananas (about 1 1/4 cups mashed) – The star ingredient, providing natural sweetness and moisture.
• 1/2 cup maple syrup or coconut sugar – Naturally sweetens the bread.
• 1/3 cup melted coconut oil (or any neutral oil) – Adds richness and moisture.
• 1/4 cup unsweetened plant milk (almond, soy, or oat milk) – Helps bind the ingredients.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Boosts the flavor.
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar – Reacts with baking soda for a better rise.

Optional Mix-Ins:

• 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips – For a sweet, chocolatey touch.
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans – Adds crunch and nuttiness.
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut – For extra texture and flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prepare

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

• In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth (a few small lumps are okay).

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. Add maple syrup, melted coconut oil, plant milk, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar to the mashed bananas.
2. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients

1. Sift in the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
2. Gently fold everything together using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined (do not overmix!).

Step 5: Add Mix-Ins (Optional)

• If using chocolate chips, nuts, or coconut, fold them in gently.

Step 6: Bake the Banana Bread

1. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.
2. (Optional) Sprinkle extra chocolate chips or nuts on top.
3. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

1. Remove from the oven and let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
2. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
3. Enjoy warm or at room temperature with a spread of vegan butter, nut butter, or jam!

Pro Tips for the Best Vegan Banana Bread

✔ Use Ripe Bananas – The riper, the better! Overripe bananas (with brown spots) add natural sweetness and moisture.
✔ Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of fluffy.
✔ Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, it’s ready!
✔ Let It Cool Completely. This helps the flavors develop and prevents crumbling.
✔ Customize It! – Swap maple syrup for brown sugar or try different mix-ins like dried fruit or cinnamon swirl.

Vegan Banana Bread Variations

Looking to mix things up? Try these delicious variations!

1. Vegan Chocolate Banana Bread

• Add 1/4 cup cocoa powder to the dry ingredients.
• Stir in 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips.

2. Peanut Butter Banana Bread

• Swirl in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter before baking.
• Top with crushed peanuts for extra crunch.

3. Gluten-Free Banana Bread

• Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour.

4. Blueberry Banana Bread

• Fold in 1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries for a fruity twist.

How to Store & Freeze Vegan Banana Bread

Room Temperature:

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator:

• Keeps fresh for up to 1 week when wrapped tightly.

Freezer:

• Slice the banana bread and wrap each piece individually.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• To serve, thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for 20 seconds.

This vegan banana bread is moist, fluffy, naturally sweetened, and so easy to make. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, it’s a crowd-pleaser that even non-vegans will love!