12 Creative Vegan Banana Bread Variations To Try

Did you know that bananas are one of the most popular fruits worldwide, with over 100 billion consumed every year? If you’re a fan of this versatile fruit, you’re in for a treat! In this blog, we’ll explore 12 creative vegan banana bread variations that will take your baking to the next level, from Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter to Caramelized Pineapple. Get ready to indulge in delicious flavors and delightful textures, perfect for any occasion!

Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Banana Bread

This Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, boasting rich peanut butter flavor, sweet banana goodness, and irresistible chocolate chips.

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
1/3 cup melted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup chocolate chips

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 70 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, peanut butter, and melted butter until smooth.

3. Add the sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing well.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, and flour.

5. Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.

6. Fold in the chocolate chips, being careful not to overmix.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For extra flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or shredded coconut to the batter.
Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and texture.
This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Coconut Almond Crunch Banana Bread

This Coconut Almond Crunch Banana Bread combines the rich flavors of coconut and almonds with the sweetness of ripe bananas, creating a delightful treat that is both moist and crunchy.

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted coconut oil
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup shredded coconut
1/2 cup chopped almonds
1/4 cup almond slices (for topping)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with melted coconut oil until well combined.

3. Add granulated sugar, brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract to the bowl and mix until smooth.

4. In a separate bowl, combine flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.

6. Fold in shredded coconut and chopped almonds.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle almond slices on top.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For extra moisture, use very ripe bananas.
You can substitute walnuts for almonds if preferred.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Add a splash of coconut milk for a more intense coconut flavor.

Maple Walnut Banana Bread

This Maple Walnut Banana Bread combines the sweet flavors of ripe bananas and pure maple syrup with the crunchy texture of walnuts, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Preparation Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 70 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, maple syrup, melted butter, and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and flour.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.

5. Fold in the chopped walnuts gently into the batter.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

Use overly ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
Store the banana bread in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
For added flavor, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or some chocolate chips to the batter.

Blueberry Lemon Zest Banana Bread

This Blueberry Lemon Zest Banana Bread combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with tart blueberries and fragrant lemon zest for a delightful twist on a classic treat.

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup blueberries, fresh or frozen
1/4 teaspoon salt

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.

3. Stir in the melted butter until well combined.

4. Add sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing well after each addition.

5. Mix in the lemon zest, baking soda, and salt.

6. Gradually fold in the all-purpose flour until just combined.

7. Gently fold in the blueberries, being careful not to crush them.

8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For a sweeter bread, you can increase the sugar to 1 1/4 cups.
Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
If using frozen blueberries, do not thaw them before adding to the batter.
Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Spiced Pumpkin Banana Bread

This Spiced Pumpkin Banana Bread combines the cozy flavors of pumpkin and banana with warm spices, making it a perfect treat for any season.

Ingredients:

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
1 cup canned pumpkin puree
1/2 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup granulated sugar
3 large eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. In a large bowl, mix together the mashed bananas, pumpkin puree, vegetable oil, brown sugar, granulated sugar, and eggs until well combined.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.

5. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

7. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
You can store the bread in an airtight container for up to 4 days at room temperature.
This bread freezes well; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to freeze for up to 3 months.

Matcha Green Tea Banana Bread

This Matcha Green Tea Banana Bread combines the earthy flavors of matcha with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, creating an irresistible treat that’s both unique and flavorful.

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
1/2 cup sugar
1 large egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup matcha green tea powder
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted coconut oil.

3. Stir in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the baking soda, salt, all-purpose flour, and matcha green tea powder.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.

6. If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

Use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and flavor.
Store any leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Feel free to experiment by adding chocolate chips or dried fruits for extra flavor!

Cranberry Orange Banana Bread

This Cranberry Orange Banana Bread is a delightful combination of sweet bananas, tart cranberries, and zesty orange, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon orange zest
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.

3. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, vanilla extract, and orange zest to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using).

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.

6. Fold in the chopped cranberries gently into the batter.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For a sweeter bread, increase the amount of sugar.
Feel free to substitute the cranberries with blueberries or chopped nuts for a different flavor.
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.

Tropical Mango Coconut Banana Bread

This Tropical Mango Coconut Banana Bread is a delightful fusion of sweet tropical flavors that brings a taste of the islands to your kitchen.

Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
1 cup diced fresh mango
1/2 cup shredded coconut, sweetened or unsweetened
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

3. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

4. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and mixed bananas.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

6. Fold in the diced mango and shredded coconut until evenly distributed.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

9. Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

Make sure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
For an extra tropical flavor, add some chopped macadamia nuts or walnuts.
This bread freezes well; wrap tightly in plastic wrap before storing in the freezer.

Espresso Chocolate Swirl Banana Bread

This Espresso Chocolate Swirl Banana Bread recipe combines rich espresso flavor with luscious chocolate, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup espresso, cooled
1/2 cup chocolate chips
1/4 cup cocoa powder

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth.

3. Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.

6. Divide the batter in half, and mix the cooled espresso and cocoa powder into one half of the batter.

7. In the prepared loaf pan, spoon alternating layers of the plain banana batter and the espresso chocolate batter.

8. Swirl the batters together gently with a knife to create a marbled effect, then sprinkle chocolate chips on top.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For a stronger espresso flavor, use a darker roast coffee.
Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
To freeze, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil; it will keep for up to 3 months.

Nutty Quinoa Banana Bread

This Nutty Quinoa Banana Bread combines the wholesome flavors of ripe bananas and crunchy nuts, delivering a nutritious and delicious treat perfect for breakfast or snacks.

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked quinoa
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup honey or maple syrup
1/4 cup melted coconut oil
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, honey (or maple syrup), melted coconut oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. Add the cooked quinoa to the banana mixture and stir until incorporated.

4. In another bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon.

5. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.

6. Gently fold in the chopped nuts.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted into the center.

9. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For extra flavor, add chocolate chips or dried fruits to the batter.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Freeze slices individually for a quick grab-and-go snack later.

Caramelized Pineapple Banana Bread

This Caramelized Pineapple Banana Bread is a delightful twist on the classic recipe, combining the sweet and tropical flavors of caramelized pineapple and ripe bananas for an irresistible treat.

Ingredients:

1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
1 cup fresh pineapple, finely diced
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (for caramelization)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.

2. In a medium skillet over medium heat, add the diced pineapple and 1 tablespoon of brown sugar, cooking until the pineapple is caramelized, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.

3. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and 1 cup of brown sugar until creamy.

4. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract to the butter mixture and mix until combined.

5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in the caramelized pineapple and nuts if using.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
For an extra tropical twist, add shredded coconut to the batter.
Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Slice and toast individual pieces for a delicious breakfast or snack.

Apple Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread

This Apple Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread combines the warm flavors of cinnamon and apples with moist banana bread, creating a delightful and aromatic treat.

Ingredients:

2 cups mashed ripe bananas
1 cup applesauce
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 apple (peeled, cored, and diced)
1 tablespoon brown sugar (for the swirl)
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for the swirl)

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 60 minutes

Total Time: 75 minutes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.

2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, applesauce, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.

3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.

4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.

5. Fold in the diced apple gently into the batter.

6. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and ground cinnamon for the swirl.

7. Pour half of the batter into the prepared loaf pan, sprinkle half of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top, then layer the remaining batter and sprinkle the rest of the cinnamon sugar mixture on top.

8. Use a knife or skewer to gently swirl the mixture into the batter, creating a marbled effect.

9. Bake for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips:

For an extra touch, add chopped nuts or raisins into the batter if desired.
This bread can be frozen for up to three months, so make extra for later enjoyment!
Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and texture.