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You will love that this Healthy Banana Bread is moist, naturally sweetened, and made with wholesome ingredients! It’s Vegan, WFPB, oil-free, and refined sugar-free, making it perfect for a healthy treat. Try this simple yet delicious recipe today!
Perfect and delicious vegan banana bread!
There’s something magical about the smell of banana bread baking in the oven. The warm, cinnamon-spiced aroma fills the kitchen, making waiting for that first bite impossible.
This Healthy Vegan Banana Bread is soft, naturally sweet, and made with wholesome ingredients—without refined sugar, oil, or butter! Thanks to the bananas and applesauce, it’s incredibly moist and has a delightful warm cinnamon flavor.
Plus, it’s so easy to make—no fancy equipment is required!
I’ve been making this banana bread for years, tweaking it to be as healthy and delicious as possible while keeping that classic comforting taste. It’s kid-friendly, great for meal prep, and makes a perfect breakfast, snack, or even dessert.
If you love banana bread but want a healthier version, you’ll love this one!
WHAT ALLERGENS OR INGREDIENTS THIS RECIPE IS FREE FROM?
- Dairy-Free—This recipe does not contain milk, butter, or any dairy-based ingredients, making it suitable for those with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.
- Egg-Free – Instead of eggs, mashed bananas and applesauce act as binding agents, providing moisture and structure without the need for animal products.
- Nut-Free (if you skip the walnuts/pecans)—While optional nuts can be included for texture and flavor, the base recipe is nut-free, making it accessible for those with nut allergies.
- Refined Sugar-Free – The sweetness comes from ripe bananas and maple syrup instead of processed sugar, making it a healthier choice.
- Oil-Free – Unsweetened applesauce replaces oil, keeping the bread moist while eliminating added fats
- Soy-Free (depending on the plant-based milk you choose) – By selecting soy-free plant milk, such as oats, almonds, or coconut milk, this recipe remains soy-free for those avoiding it.
This recipe suits those following a vegan, oil-free, refined-sugar-free, and whole-food plant-based diet.
WHY THIS RECIPE WORKS AND IT’S GOOD FOR YOU
This banana bread is delicious and packed with wholesome, nutrient-dense ingredients that support a healthy lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying breakfast, a post-workout snack, or a guilt-free dessert, this recipe covers you. It’s naturally sweet, moist, and full of flavor without relying on processed ingredients.
- Naturally Sweetened – Uses bananas and maple syrup instead of refined sugar.
- No Oil or Butter – Unsweetened applesauce keeps it moist without added fats.
- Whole Grain Goodness – Made with whole wheat flour for fiber and nutrients.
- Kid-Friendly & Meal Prep Friendly – Stays fresh for days and is excellent for breakfast or snacks.
- Boosts Energy – Perfect for fueling your day without sugar crashes!
HOW TO PREPARE THIS HEALTHY BANANA BREAD
(Please read the printable recipe card below for detailed ingredients, measurements, steps, and notes).
This banana bread is super easy to make—mix the wet and dry ingredients, fold them together, and bake!
You’ll need essential kitchen tools, and the simple steps make it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks. Plus, the ingredients are easy to find.
Let’s explore kitchen tools, the required ingredients, and the steps with helpful pictures if needed.
USEFUL KITCHEN EQUIPMENT
Here’s what you’ll need to make this recipe:
- Mixing bowls: For combining wet and dry ingredients.
- Whisk – To evenly mix the dry ingredients.
- Fork or Potato Masher – To mash the bananas.
- Spatula: For spreading layers evenly.
- Parchment Paper: This is for easy lifting and slicing.
- Loaf Pan – A 9×5-inch loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
Now, let’s review the list of ingredients and potential substitutions in some cases.
INGREDIENTS NOTES
Here is a list of everything you will need to prepare this recipe
Basic recipe:
- Plant-Based Milk + Apple Cider Vinegar – Combined to create a dairy-free buttermilk for extra moisture.
- Bananas – The riper, the better! They add natural sweetness and moisture.
- Unsweetened Applesauce – Replaces oil for a soft, tender crumb. See my recipe here.
- Maple Syrup – A natural sweetener that keeps it refined and sugar-free. You can also use date syrup as an alternative natural sweetener with a rich caramel-like flavor.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warm sweetness.
- Whole Wheat Flour – Provides fiber and nutrients. Use whole wheat pastry flour for a lighter texture.
- Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Help the bread rise and become fluffy.
- Cinnamon – Adds warmth and depth of flavor.
- Salt (Optional): Enhances flavors and balances sweetness; omit if on a low-sodium diet.
Optional:
- Walnuts or Pecans – For crunch and added nutrition.
- Vegan Chocolate Chips – Add a touch of indulgence to the banana bread.
- Banana (for topping) – Adds a beautiful caramelized decoration on top.
- Extra Ground Cinnamon and Date Sugar (Optional for topping): Sprinkle on top for extra warmth and a subtle sweetness.
DIRECTIONS WITH PICTURES
To prepare this delicious Vegan Banana Bread, follow these steps:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly dust with flour.
Prepare the buttermilk: Mix plant-based milk with apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes.
Mash the bananas in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in applesauce, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the prepared buttermilk.
Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in nuts and chocolate chips (if using).
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Add banana topping: Gently place the halved banana on top of the batter and sprinkle with extra cinnamon and date sugar (optional).
Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes clean.
Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
WHAT WILL YOU LOVE ABOUT THIS RECIPE?
Well, you will find that it is:
- Moist, soft, and naturally sweet.
- Oil-free, Refined sugar-free and made with 100% whole food plant-based ingredients.
- Super easy to prepare with simple ingredients.
- Kid-friendly and perfect for meal prep.
- A delicious way to use ripe bananas!
Let’s prepare this delicious recipe!
OTHER SWEET TREATS TO TRY!
WATCH THE STEP-BY-STEP VIDEO!
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PRINTABLE RECIPE CARD
THE BEST HEALTHY BANANA BREAD (VEGAN, OIL-FREE)
Equipment
- 2 mixing bowls
- 1 Whisk
- 1 spatula
- 1 9×5-inch Loaf Pan
- 1 Fork or Potato Masher
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients:
- ½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
- 3 bananas (large ripe, about 1 ½ cups mashed)
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients:
- 2 cups whole wheat flour (or whole wheat pastry flour for a lighter texture)
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
Mix-ins
- ½ cup walnuts or pecans (chopped)
- ½ cup vegan chocolate chips
Toppings (Optional):
- 1 banana (sliced in half lengthwise)
- Extra ground cinnamon
- Date sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly dust with flour.
- Prepare the buttermilk: Mix plant-based milk with apple cider vinegar in a small bowl. Let sit for 5 minutes.
- Mash the bananas in a large bowl until smooth. Stir in applesauce, maple syrup, vanilla extract, and the prepared buttermilk.
- Mix dry ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until combined. Do not overmix.
- Fold in nuts and chocolate chips if using.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Add the banana topping: Place the halved banana on top of the batter and sprinkle with extra ground cinnamon and date sugar, if using.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes clean.
- Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze individual slices for up to 3 months.
- Use extra ripe bananas for natural sweetness and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread soft and fluffy.
- Ensure the oven is fully preheated before baking.
- If using a glass or ceramic loaf pan, baking time may be slightly longer.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
WAYS TO ENJOY THIS RECIPE
Here are some delicious ways to enjoy this recipe:
- Toasted with Nut Butter: Spread almond or peanut butter on a warm slice for a satisfying snack.
- Banana Bread French Toast: Dip slices in a plant-based batter and pan-fry for a decadent breakfast treat.
- With a Cup of Tea or Coffee: The perfect companion for a cozy moment.
- Dessert Delight: Serve with a dollop of homemade cashew cream or a scoop of banana nice cream.
- On-the-Go Snack: Slice and pack it for a nutritious snack while traveling or at work.
DID YOU MAKE THIS HEALTHY BANANA BREAD?
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