Banana Blueberry Bread

The gentle sweetness of ripe bananas pairs perfectly with the juicy bursts of blueberries in this moist vegan loaf. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or lightly toasted the next day, it’s a comforting treat that feels like a warm hug. The cinnamon undertone adds a subtle spice that ties everything together beautifully.

This Banana Blueberry Bread is perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or a wholesome dessert. It’s not just easy to make, it’s also made with simple pantry staples, no fancy equipment required. With no dairy or eggs, it’s 100% plant-based and absolutely delightful for everyone at the table.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed

• 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries

• 1/3 cup neutral oil (e.g. sunflower or light olive oil)

• 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar

• 1/4 cup plant-based milk (e.g. almond, soy, oat)

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup almond meal or ground almonds

• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and line a loaf tin with parchment paper.

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

3. Add the oil, sugar, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

4. Sift in the flour, then add almond meal, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet until just combined.

5. Fold in the blueberries, being careful not to overmix.

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

7. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Allow to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 55 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Kcal: 230 kcal | Servings: 10 slices

All About Vegan Banana Blueberry Bread

There’s something timeless and comforting about a loaf of homemade banana bread. Add in the juicy pop of blueberries, and you’ve got a match made in baking heaven. This Vegan Banana Blueberry Bread isn’t just a recipe, it’s an experience. A warm slice in the morning, a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, or a cozy dessert, it fits every part of the day.

What sets this banana blueberry bread apart is its plant-based simplicity. No eggs, no dairy, just pure, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a moist, fluffy, and flavorful loaf. Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is foolproof and endlessly customizable. Let’s explore what makes this bread so special.

Why Vegan Banana Bread Works So Well

Bananas are the perfect base for vegan baking. They provide natural sweetness, a soft texture, and binding properties that make eggs almost unnecessary. In this recipe, mashed ripe bananas serve as the foundation, not only adding flavor but also contributing to the structure of the loaf.

Ripe bananas are key. The more overripe they are (think brown spots, almost black skin), the sweeter and more aromatic your bread will be. Bananas at this stage are easier to mash and more flavorful, which means you need less added sugar.

Pairing bananas with blueberries elevates the experience. The natural tartness and juiciness of blueberries balance the richness of the banana, resulting in a harmonious blend of flavors. Whether you use fresh or frozen berries, they melt into the loaf and create beautiful purple streaks throughout every slice.

Ingredient Breakdown and Their Roles

Let’s take a deeper look at each core ingredient in this banana blueberry bread and why it’s important.

• Bananas: Provide moisture, natural sweetness, and structure. Their starchiness helps bind the loaf.

• Blueberries: Offer a juicy texture contrast, antioxidants, and a hint of tang.

• Oil: A neutral oil (like sunflower or canola) keeps the crumb tender. You could also use melted coconut oil or vegan butter.

• Sugar: Brown sugar or coconut sugar deepens the flavor with a hint of caramel. You can also adjust the sweetness based on your banana ripeness.

• Plant Milk: Keeps the batter loose and light. Oat, soy, almond, or cashew milk all work well here.

• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness and ties all the flavors together.

• All-Purpose Flour: Provides the structure. For a heartier version, substitute part of it with whole wheat flour.

• Almond Meal: Adds richness and a slight nutty flavor. It also helps with moisture retention.

• Baking Powder & Baking Soda: Leavening agents that give the loaf its lift.

• Cinnamon: A warm, comforting spice that subtly enhances the sweetness.

• Salt: Essential for balance, it amplifies the natural sweetness and adds depth.

Variations and Add-Ins

One of the best things about this banana blueberry bread is its flexibility. You can easily modify the ingredients based on your taste, dietary needs, or pantry availability.

Here are some popular variations:

• Nuts: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for a crunchy texture.

• Seeds: Sprinkle chia or flaxseeds into the batter for added fiber and omega-3s.

• Coconut: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

• Chocolate Chips: Dark vegan chocolate pairs surprisingly well with banana and blueberry.

• Spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even a dash of ginger.

• Gluten-Free Version: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free.

• Low-Sugar Version: Omit added sugar if your bananas are ultra-sweet, or substitute with maple syrup or date sugar.

The batter can also be baked into muffins, mini loaves, or even turned into a banana blueberry cake by adjusting the bake time accordingly.

Tips for Perfect Banana Blueberry Bread Every Time

Although this recipe is straightforward, a few key tips can ensure your loaf comes out perfectly every single time.

• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the flour, gently fold until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense, gummy texture.

• Coat the Blueberries: If using frozen blueberries, coat them lightly in flour before adding to the batter to prevent sinking.

• Let it Rest: Allow the bread to cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it firm up and slice cleanly.

• Store Correctly: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months.

• Toast for Flavor: Toasting a slice lightly before serving brings out the sugars and enhances the flavor even more.

Health Benefits

While indulgent, this bread is packed with nutrients thanks to its simple, plant-based ingredients.

• Bananas: Rich in potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber.

• Blueberries: High in antioxidants, vitamin C, and brain-boosting flavonoids.

• Almond Meal: Adds protein, vitamin E, and healthy fats.

• Whole Ingredients: No preservatives, artificial flavors, or processed fillers.

It’s a great snack for kids, a post-workout treat, or a healthier alternative to conventional banana bread made with eggs, butter, and refined sugar.

When and How to Serve

This banana blueberry bread is incredibly versatile:

• Breakfast: Serve warm with a pat of vegan butter or nut butter.

• Brunch: Pair with a fresh fruit salad or a dairy-free yogurt bowl.

• Tea Time: Enjoy with a cup of chai, coffee, or herbal tea.

• Dessert: Add a scoop of vegan ice cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for a more indulgent serving.

It’s also a fantastic offering for guests, potlucks, picnics, or a thoughtful edible gift—just wrap it in parchment and tie with twine for a rustic presentation.

Sustainability and Vegan Baking

This banana blueberry bread not only supports a healthy lifestyle but also aligns with environmentally conscious values. Choosing a vegan alternative helps reduce your carbon footprint, minimizes water usage, and avoids animal-derived ingredients. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, bananas are one of the most affordable fruits, and most of the other ingredients are pantry staples.

If you’re new to vegan baking, this recipe is a gentle and rewarding entry point. It proves that you don’t need eggs or dairy to create something rich, moist, and incredibly satisfying.

Conclusion

This Vegan Banana Blueberry Bread brings together comfort, flavor, and nutrition in every bite. Whether you’re a plant-based eater, someone exploring dairy-free options, or simply a banana bread lover, this loaf is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and guaranteed to bring smiles all around.

Try it once, and you’ll find yourself coming back to this recipe over and over again. From busy weekday mornings to relaxed weekend brunches, it’s the kind of bake that fits any mood and every season.