Vegan Banana Bread with Walnuts

This Vegan Banana Bread with Walnuts is a wholesome, plant-based twist on the classic comfort food. Made without eggs or dairy, this recipe uses ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture, creating a moist and tender loaf. The addition of crunchy walnuts adds texture and nutty flavour, making it a perfect snack or breakfast treat.

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup coconut oil (or vegetable oil, melted)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (or coconut sugar)
• 1/4 cup plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a heartier loaf)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional, for extra warmth)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, plus extra for topping

Instructions

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Lightly grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Add the melted coconut oil, brown sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract. Mix well until combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread light and fluffy.

Add Walnuts

Fold in the chopped walnuts gently, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Fill the Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Sprinkle a few extra walnuts over the surface for a decorative touch.

Bake

Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminium foil.

Cool and Slice

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve once cooled.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Banana Bread

• Use overripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Customize the recipe by adding raisins, dark chocolate chips, or shredded coconut for extra flavour.
• For a gluten-free version, substitute the flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend.
• Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.

This Vegan Banana Bread with Walnuts is moist, flavourful, and full of comforting goodness. Whether enjoyed warm with a cup of tea or packed for an on-the-go snack, it’s sure to become a favourite in your plant-based baking repertoire!