Dairy Free Banana Bread

Dairy free banana bread is a moist, flavorful treat made without butter, milk, or cream. It’s the perfect recipe for anyone with dietary restrictions or those simply looking for a healthier twist. Sweet bananas and pantry staples come together for a comforting loaf.

This bread is easy to make, requiring just one bowl and simple steps, making it ideal for busy mornings or weekend baking projects. It’s naturally sweetened and full of flavor, without the heaviness of traditional recipes.

Whether enjoyed warm from the oven, toasted with nut butter, or as a grab-and-go snack, dairy free banana bread is a wholesome, satisfying choice for any time of day.

Ingredients List

– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– ½ cup coconut oil (melted) or vegetable oil
– ½ cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
– 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan)
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for healthier option)
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
– ½ cup dairy-free chocolate chips or chopped nuts (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add melted coconut oil, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until combined.

Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Stir in dairy-free chocolate chips or nuts if using. The batter should be thick but pourable.

Step 5: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Servings

Makes 1 loaf (about 10 slices)

Nutritional Information (approx. per slice)

Calories: 210
Carbs: 28g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 10g

Storage Instructions

Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week. Freeze individual slices wrapped in foil or plastic for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat gently in the oven.

Pairings/Suggestions

Dairy free banana bread pairs wonderfully with almond butter, peanut butter, or a drizzle of honey. For a heartier breakfast, enjoy it with a smoothie, coffee, or tea. For dessert, warm a slice and top with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream.

Seasonal Relevance

Banana bread is a year-round favorite, but it’s especially comforting during fall and winter when warm baked goods are in high demand. It’s also a great way to use up overripe bananas in the summer and spring, reducing food waste while enjoying a sweet treat.

Health Benefits

This dairy free banana bread offers natural sweetness from bananas and can be made with whole wheat flour for extra fiber. Bananas are rich in potassium and vitamin B6, supporting heart health and energy production. Using coconut oil provides healthy fats, while reducing refined sugar or adding nuts boosts nutritional value. It’s a wholesome alternative to traditional desserts, perfect for balanced snacking.

Pros and Cons

Pros	Cons
Dairy-free and allergy-friendly	May be denser than traditional recipes
Simple, one-bowl preparation	Best with very ripe bananas
Customizable with add-ins like nuts or chocolate	Not as rich without butter
Freezer-friendly for make-ahead convenience	Longer bake time required

Conclusion

Dairy free banana bread is a delicious, moist, and versatile loaf that’s easy to prepare and enjoyable for the whole family. With its natural sweetness and wholesome ingredients, it’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.

This recipe proves that you don’t need dairy to enjoy a comforting baked treat. Simple to make, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable, it’s a staple worth keeping in your kitchen rotation.

FAQs

Q1: Can I make this banana bread vegan?
Yes! Replace the eggs with flax eggs or chia eggs to make it fully vegan.

Q2: Can I use gluten-free flour?
Absolutely. Substitute with a gluten-free flour blend, though texture may vary slightly.

Q3: How do I know when the banana bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready.

Q4: Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes. You can cut the sugar in half or use natural sweeteners like maple syrup or honey.

Q5: What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?
Place bananas in a paper bag with an apple, or bake unpeeled bananas at 300°F (150°C) for 15 minutes until soft and blackened.