Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread

There’s something wonderfully comforting about a warm slice of banana bread fresh from the oven. It’s the kind of treat that fills your kitchen with a sweet aroma and brings back memories of cozy mornings spent sipping coffee and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. This Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also super simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients that you probably already have at home. Plus, it’s perfect for using up those very ripe bananas that are just waiting to be transformed into something delightful.

Why It’s My Go-To

This Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread has become my go-to recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a perfect choice for both novice bakers and seasoned pros. The combination of granulated and dark brown sugar gives it a rich flavor, while the canola oil keeps it moist and tender. And let’s not forget the star of the show—those ripe bananas! They add natural sweetness and a lovely texture that makes every bite a delight. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a dessert, this banana bread is versatile and satisfying.

Ingredient Checklist

To make this Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 very ripe medium bananas
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup canola oil*
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon fine-grain sea salt

*Canola oil is a great neutral oil for baking, but feel free to substitute with another vegetable oil if desired.

Prep & Cook Tools

Before you dive into making your banana bread, gather the following tools:

• Mixing Bowl: A large bowl for combining the wet ingredients and dry ingredients.
• Whisk: To ensure your ingredients are well combined and fluffy.
• Spatula: For folding the batter and scraping down the sides of your bowl.
• Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5-inch loaf pan works perfectly for this recipe.
• Oven: Preheat to ensure an even bake.

Build Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread Step by Step

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the banana bread bakes evenly right from the start.

Step 2: Prepare Your Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the 4 very ripe medium bananas with a fork or a potato masher until smooth. A few small lumps are fine; they add character to the bread!

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of dark brown sugar, 1/2 cup of canola oil, 2 large eggs, and 2 teaspoons of pure vanilla extract. Whisk everything together until well combined and creamy.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of fine-grain sea salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and spices throughout the flour.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, folding gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly okay.

Step 6: Pour into Loaf Pan

Pour the batter into a greased 9×5-inch loaf pan, smoothing the top with your spatula.

Step 7: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly domed.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread warm or at room temperature!

Spring to Winter: Ideas

This Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways throughout the seasons:

• Top with fresh berries in the spring for a refreshing breakfast.
• Add a dollop of dairy-free yogurt and granola in the summer for a light snack.
• In the fall, spread a bit of almond butter for a cozy afternoon treat.
• Serve warm with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar in the winter for a comforting dessert.

What I Learned Testing

Testing this Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread taught me a few valuable lessons:

• Ripe bananas are key to the best flavor and moisture. The more spotted and brown they are, the better!
• Mixing the dry ingredients separately ensures an even rise and texture.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment! Adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit can elevate the flavor profile.
• Letting the bread cool completely before slicing makes for cleaner cuts and a better texture.

Save It for Later

This Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for about 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, slice and freeze individual pieces in a freezer-safe bag. Simply thaw at room temperature or pop in the toaster for a quick breakfast or snack!

Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread Q&A

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Can I substitute the canola oil with another oil?

Absolutely! You can use vegetable oil, melted coconut oil, or even applesauce for a lighter version.

How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?

The banana bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The top should be golden brown.

Can I add mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips?

Definitely! Feel free to fold in 1/2 cup of walnuts, pecans, or dairy-free chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.

Try These Next

• Easy Dairy-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Dairy-Free Pumpkin Bread
• Vegan Peanut Butter Brownies
• Dairy-Free Blueberry Muffins

Wrap-Up

In conclusion, this Easy Dairy-Free Banana Bread is a fantastic recipe that is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. With its rich flavors, moist texture, and simple ingredients, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a snack for the kids, or a sweet treat to share with friends, this banana bread delivers on all fronts. So go ahead, grab those ripe bananas, and get baking—you won’t regret it!