Mixing bowls One large for the wet ingredients, and a smaller one for dry.
Loaf pan A standard 9x5-inch pan works perfectly. If you're using a smaller pan, you may need to adjust the bake time.
Whisk or Fork For mashing bananas and mixing ingredients.
Rubber spatula To scrape the bowl clean and spread the batter evenly.
Parchment Paper or Oil Spray To line or grease the loaf pan for easy removal.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
1½cupsall-purpose flouror use gluten-free flour blend for a gf banana bread recipe
1tspbaking soda
½tspbaking powder
¼tspsalt
1tspcinnamon
¼tspnutmegoptional for a warm, spiced flavor
½cupchopped raw almondsplus extra for topping
Wet Ingredients
3medium overripe bananasmashed, about 1¼ cups
½cupcoconut sugaradds a subtle caramel note
⅓cupneutral oillike avocado or light olive oil
¼cupunsweetened plant milkalmond, soy, or oat work well
1tspvanilla extract
1tbspapple cider vinegarhelps with leavening and moisture
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it with oil.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and chopped almonds.
Pro tip: If making vegan gluten free banana bread, be sure your flour blend includes xanthan gum or binders for the right texture.
Mash and Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your bananas with a fork until smooth but still a little chunky. Add the coconut sugar, oil, plant milk, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. Mix until well combined.
This is the stage where the banana flavor really shines. Coconut sugar not only sweetens the loaf but also deepens the flavor with its caramel undertones—perfect for fall-inspired bakes that could rival even your favorite pumpkin recipes.
Combine the Mixtures
Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet, using a spatula. Stir just until no flour streaks remain. Don’t overmix—this will keep your banana bread light and moist.
Pour and Top
Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle extra chopped almonds on top for a crunchy, golden finish. You could also add a dusting of coconut sugar if you want a caramelized crust.
Bake
Place the loaf in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
Cool Before Slicing
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time helps the bread firm up and develop the best texture.