This vegan banana bread brings together the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the warm, comforting spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, enhanced by the satisfying crunch of walnuts. The loaf’s moist texture makes it an irresistible treat for any time of the day, from breakfast to a cozy afternoon snack.
What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity and versatility. It’s completely plant-based, using pantry staples to create a wholesome, delicious loaf with no eggs or dairy. Perfect for sharing with friends or enjoying solo with a cup of your favorite tea, this banana bread offers a little slice of comfort with every bite.
Full Recipe:
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3 ripe bananas, mashed
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100 ml vegetable oil
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140 g light brown sugar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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200 g self-raising flour
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1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
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75 g walnuts, roughly chopped
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) / 350°F / Gas mark 4.
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Grease and line a loaf tin with parchment paper.
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In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, oil, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
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In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
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Stir in the chopped walnuts gently.
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Pour the batter into the prepared tin and level the surface.
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Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow the loaf to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 75 minutes
Kcal: Approximately 280 kcal per slice | Servings: 10 slices
The Charm of Vegan Banana Bread
Vegan banana bread has become a beloved staple in many kitchens around the world, and it’s easy to see why. This loaf combines the comforting familiarity of traditional banana bread with a plant-based twist that makes it accessible to a wide range of dietary preferences and restrictions. By omitting eggs and dairy, this recipe caters to vegans, those with allergies or intolerances, and anyone seeking a healthier, more natural sweet treat.
What makes banana bread so universally loved is its moist texture and rich flavor profile. The natural sweetness of overripe bananas provides the perfect base, while the addition of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg creates a cozy aroma that fills your home as it bakes. Adding walnuts or other nuts introduces a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the loaf.
Health Benefits and Nutritional Aspects
One of the key appeals of vegan banana bread lies in its relatively wholesome ingredients. Bananas are a great source of essential nutrients such as potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. They help provide natural sweetness, which means less added sugar is necessary compared to many other baked goods. This recipe uses light brown sugar, which adds a mild molasses flavor and moisture, but the overall sugar content can be adjusted based on your preference or dietary needs.
Replacing traditional butter and eggs with vegetable oil and ripe bananas keeps the loaf moist and tender while significantly reducing cholesterol and saturated fats. This can make the bread a heart-healthier choice compared to conventional banana bread recipes. The inclusion of walnuts adds healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants, further boosting the nutritional profile.
Versatility and Customization
Vegan banana bread is highly versatile and forgiving, which makes it a fantastic recipe for both beginner and experienced bakers. You can easily swap ingredients based on what you have available or your taste preferences. For example, walnuts can be replaced with pecans, almonds, or even seeds like pumpkin or sunflower for a different texture and flavor. If you prefer a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts and add extras such as dried fruit or dark chocolate chips.
The spices can also be adjusted to your liking. While cinnamon and nutmeg are classic choices, you might experiment with ginger, cardamom, or allspice to create new flavor profiles. Adding a splash of plant-based milk or applesauce can further enhance the loaf’s moistness.
Baking Tips for Perfect Results
Achieving the perfect vegan banana bread requires a few key considerations. First, using ripe bananas is essential—the riper, the better. Bananas with brown spots are sweeter and more flavorful, which enhances the taste and moisture of the bread. Make sure to mash them thoroughly for an even batter.
When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, it’s important to fold gently and avoid overmixing. Overmixing can develop gluten in the flour, leading to a denser, tougher loaf. Instead, mix until just combined to keep the bread tender.
Choosing the right baking pan and lining it with parchment paper or greasing it well ensures easy removal of the bread after baking. Also, baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready.
Serving Suggestions and Storage
Vegan banana bread is delicious served warm or at room temperature. Toasting slices and adding a spread of vegan butter or nut butter elevates the experience. It pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or even a cold glass of plant-based milk.
This bread also makes an excellent base for creative breakfasts or snacks. Try layering it with almond butter and fresh fruit or crumbling it over dairy-free yogurt for a parfait-style treat. Leftover banana bread can be sliced and frozen for up to three months; simply thaw at room temperature or toast slices directly from the freezer.
Environmental and Ethical Benefits
Choosing vegan banana bread not only supports your personal health but also contributes positively to environmental sustainability and animal welfare. Plant-based diets typically have a lower carbon footprint compared to those heavy in animal products. By baking this loaf, you’re helping to reduce resource consumption related to dairy and egg production.
Moreover, vegan baking encourages mindfulness about ingredient sourcing. Many plant-based recipes use whole foods and minimally processed ingredients, promoting cleaner eating habits.
Cultural and Social Impact
Banana bread has a rich history as a comfort food that emerged during times when food resources were limited, notably during the Great Depression when bananas were abundant but fresh food scarce. Vegan versions of traditional recipes reflect the growing demand for inclusive food options that accommodate various dietary needs while respecting cultural heritage.
Sharing a slice of vegan banana bread with friends or family can foster connections and open conversations about sustainable eating and lifestyle choices. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to invite others to enjoy delicious food that aligns with values of compassion and health.
Conclusion
Vegan banana bread is much more than just a tasty treat. It embodies the harmony of health, sustainability, and flavor. This loaf proves that you don’t need eggs or dairy to create moist, delicious baked goods that satisfy cravings and nourish the body. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and endless opportunities for customization, vegan banana bread deserves a spot in every baker’s repertoire.
Whether you’re new to plant-based baking or a seasoned vegan cook, this banana bread is sure to become a go-to favorite. Its inviting aroma, rich texture, and balanced sweetness make it perfect for any occasion — from a casual breakfast to an impressive dessert. Baking and sharing this loaf is a small but meaningful step toward a more mindful, joyful, and sustainable way of enjoying food.