Who doesn’t love the smell of freshly baked banana bread? This vegan banana bread recipe is moist, delicious, and easy to make. It’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a snack.
The ripe bananas give the bread its signature sweetness, and the cinnamon adds a warm, cozy flavor. This bread is sure to become a new favorite! Happy baking!
Vegan Banana Bread Recipe
Equipment
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Oven
- Wire rack
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 cup vegan buttermilk (1/2 cup non-dairy milk + 1/2 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, allowed to sit for at least 5 minutes before using.)
- 1/2 cup avocado oil (120mL) or 8 tablespoons melted vegan butter
- 3/4 cup packed light or dark brown sugar
- 1 heaping cup mashed banana from 3 medium or 4 small, overripe bananas
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts Optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour your loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegan buttermilk, avocado oil, brown sugar, mashed banana, and vanilla extract.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in the walnuts, if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
(per slice, assuming 12 slices per loaf): Calories: 120 Fat: 5g Saturated Fat: 1g Cholesterol: 0mg Sodium: 150mg Carbohydrates: 25g Sugar: 15g Protein: 3g Please note that these nutritional facts may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use.
Recommended Pairing Drink:
I would recommend serving this banana bread with a cup of coffee or tea. The coffee or tea would help to cut the sweetness of the bread and add a refreshing element.
Occasions to Serve:
- This banana bread would be a great addition to any brunch spread.
- It would also be a delicious snack or dessert.
- You could also pack it in a lunchbox for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Useful Tips:
FAQs:
What is vegan banana bread?
Vegan banana bread is a scrumptious and compassionate alternative to traditional banana bread, made without animal-derived ingredients. Instead, plant-based ingredients are used to create a similar texture and flavor.
Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
Yes, you can. Any type of chopped nuts would be great in this bread.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes, you can. Bake the bread and let it cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
How long will this bread keep?
If stored at room temperature, the bread will keep for up to 3 days. If frozen, the bread will keep for up to 2 months.
How do I make sure my banana bread doesn’t turn out dry?
That’s easy! Here are a few tips to help you achieve the perfect consistency, moist and tender:
First, make sure to use very ripe bananas. Ripe bananas are naturally sweeter and have more moisture, which will help to keep the bread moist.
Second, don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, which can make the bread tough. Mix the wet and dry ingredients separately before combining them gently.
Third, add enough liquid: Make sure you add just the right amount of liquid to the batter. You want it to be moist but not too runny. A good rule of thumb is to use about half the volume of flour in terms of liquid.
Four, bake at the right temperature: Preheat your oven to around 350°F (180°C). This temperature range works well for most ovens and helps prevent the bread from becoming too crispy or burnt.
Finally, bake the bread until it is just cooked through. An overbaked banana bread will be dry and crumbly.
What are some other ways to flavor vegan banana bread?
There are many different ways to flavor vegan banana bread. Here are a few ideas I love:
Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips.
Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts.
Add 1/2 cup of dried fruit, such as raisins, cranberries, or cherries.
Add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg.
Add 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder.
Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, you can use a different type of flour in this recipe. Some other popular options include whole wheat flour, almond flour, or oat flour. However, keep in mind that the texture of the bread may be different depending on the type of flour you use.
What is the best way to store vegan banana bread?
The best way to store vegan banana bread is at room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it on the counter for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the bread for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze vegan banana bread?
Absolutely! Like we’ve mentioned above, you can freeze vegan banana bread; for up to 2 months.
In fact, freezing vegan banana bread is one of the best ways to enjoy it fresh for longer periods. Simply slice the loaf into individual portions, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to eat it, simply thaw the frozen bread overnight in the fridge.
Or freeze a big portion, even a whole loaf: Again, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze it. Thaw the bread overnight in the refrigerator before slicing and serving.
How do I know when my banana bread is done baking?
An inserted toothpick should come out clean when the bread is done baking. You can also test the bread by tapping it on the top. If it sounds hollow, it is done baking.
Can I use regular buttermilk instead of vegan buttermilk?
Yes, you can (but, this way, the recipe will no be vegan). Just make sure to add the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar to the buttermilk first and let it sit for at least 5 minutes before using.
How to make vegan banana bread fluffy?
Fluffiness comes down to two key factors: air pockets and proper mixing. Here’s how to achieve both:
Add aeration: Adding a pinch of cream of tartar to the batter helps create air pockets during the leavening process. This results in a lighter, fluffier texture.
Beat those eggs: Eggs provide structure and richness to the bread, but they also introduce air pockets through their whites. Beating the eggs until they’re smooth and creamy ensures maximum incorporation of air pockets into the final product.
Also there are a few other tips to make vegan banana bread fluffy:
● Use a good quality gluten-free flour. Gluten-free flours can be a bit denser than regular flour, so using a good quality flour will help to make the bread lighter and fluffier.
● Use baking powder and baking soda. These leavening agents will help to give the bread its rise.
● Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, which can make the bread tough.
● Let it rest: Allowing the batter to rest for 10-15 minutes after mixing the wet and dry ingredients will help the gluten relax, resulting in a more tender crumb.
Is vegan banana bread healthy?
Yes, absolutely! By choosing whole grains, plant-based fats, and minimizing processed ingredients, vegan banana bread offers numerous health benefits. It’s a great source of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Plus, it’s naturally low in calories and fat, making it an excellent choice for those watching their weight or managing certain health conditions. However, it is important to note that vegan banana bread is still a sweet treat, and it should be enjoyed in moderation.
