Dairy-Free Banana Bread Recipe

Name: Dairy-Free Banana Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted; 1/2 cup maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Collection

I adore making this Dairy-Free Banana Bread because it’s incredibly simple and bursting with flavor. The combination of ripe bananas and a touch of maple syrup creates a naturally sweet loaf that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. I love how moist and fluffy this bread turns out, and it’s a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas. The best part? It’s dairy-free, so everyone can enjoy it without any worry. Let’s get baking!

Created by

Ophelia Turner

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:45:35.915Z

When I first tried making dairy-free banana bread, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it turned out. Instead of butter, I used coconut oil, which not only made the bread moist but also imparted a lovely flavor. I thought it would be difficult to achieve that perfect texture, but after a few attempts, I found the right balance of ingredients that yields a fluffy, delicious loaf.

One specific tip I learned along the way is to ensure your bananas are very ripe before mashing them. The riper they are, the sweeter your bread will be. Additionally, using baking soda instead of baking powder helps give the bread more lift and a better, denser crumb. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Easy and quick to make with simple ingredients
Moist and fluffy texture that everyone will adore
Naturally sweetened by ripe bananas and a hint of maple syrup

Understanding Ingredient Roles

Each ingredient in this Dairy-Free Banana Bread plays a significant role in achieving the perfect texture and flavor. The ripe bananas not only provide natural sweetness but also contribute to the moisture that keeps the bread tender. When selecting bananas, look for ones with brown spots, as these indicate maximum ripeness and flavor. Likewise, the melted coconut oil serves as a dairy-free substitute for butter, ensuring a rich taste while adding to the bread’s moistness. It also helps in binding the ingredients together effectively.

Maple syrup acts as a natural sweetener that enhances the dish's flavor profile without overpowering the banana taste. If you need a substitute, agave syrup can work, but keep in mind it has a different flavor, slightly more pronounced, which could alter the final product. Using whole wheat flour not only adds nutritional value but also lends a heartier texture compared to all-purpose flour. If gluten is a concern, a gluten-free flour blend can be used; just ensure it contains xanthan gum to maintain the structural integrity of the bread.

Baking Techniques for Success

Consistent mixing of ingredients is essential for achieving the right batter consistency. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated; overmixing can lead to a dense bread. The goal is to combine everything without leaving any dry pockets. As you fold the flour into the wet ingredients, be gentle, and it’s okay if there are a few small lumps left—this will help ensure a light, fluffy texture once baked.

Baking time can fluctuate depending on your oven's calibration, so keep an eye on your bread as it nears the end of the recommended time. Checking doneness with a toothpick is crucial; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached, indicating the bread is done but not overbaked. You want a golden-brown top to ensure that the sugars have caramelized without burning, creating a perfect crust that contrasts beautifully with the soft interior.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to start making your dairy-free banana bread:

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour

Once you have everything ready, you can start mixing!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your delicious dairy-free banana bread:

Preheat the oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Mix wet ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, mix the baking soda, salt, and whole wheat flour. Gradually add this mixture to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.

Pour into the pan

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly.

Bake

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

Cool and serve

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

Slice and enjoy your delicious dairy-free banana bread!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or dark chocolate chips before baking. You can also store the banana bread wrapped in plastic for up to 3 days, or freeze it for longer shelf life.

Storage Options

Once your Dairy-Free Banana Bread has cooled completely, it can be stored at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. This will maintain its moisture and prevent it from drying out. For longer storage, consider wrapping the bread tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the freezer, where it can last for up to three months. To thaw, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours or microwave individual slices for a quick treat.

If you would like to enjoy the bread warm, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat slices wrapped in foil for about 10-15 minutes. This method revives the flavors without becoming overly dry and offers that 'fresh from the oven' warmth, enhancing the overall experience.

Variations to Try

For an extra twist, consider adding mix-ins like chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit to the batter. Pecans or walnuts complement the banana flavor beautifully, providing a delightful crunch. If you enjoy spices, a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg can elevate the flavor profile. Experimenting with these variations can keep this recipe interesting and showcase different flavor combinations based on your mood or the occasion.

If you want to amp up the nutrition, consider adding shredded carrots or zucchini into the batter for added moisture and health benefits. This not only changes the flavor but also increases the fiber content of the bread. Adjust the flour slightly if you're adding extra moisture to ensure the ideal texture is maintained.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can substitute the coconut oil with canola oil or any other vegetable oil.

→ How do I know if my banana bread is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can replace the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What should I do if I don’t have maple syrup?

You can substitute maple syrup with honey or agave syrup if needed.