Vegan Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe – Delicious, Healthy & Easy to Make
September 08, 2025
Enki Store
Vegan Chocolate Banana Bread Recipe – Delicious, Healthy & Easy to Make
If you’re on the hunt for a sweet treat that’s rich, fluffy, and 100% plant-based, look no further than vegan chocolate banana bread. It’s the perfect blend of gooey chocolate and naturally sweet bananas, baked into a loaf that’s as indulgent as it is wholesome. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just dabbling in plant-based baking, this recipe is about to become your new favorite go-to.
Why Vegan Chocolate Banana Bread is the Perfect Treat
The Rise of Vegan Baking
Vegan baking has exploded in popularity over the past decade. In fact, according to a 2024 Statista survey, more than 6% of U.S. consumers identify as vegan, and millions more enjoy plant-based recipes even if they’re not strictly vegan. Banana bread has long been a household classic, and making it vegan is surprisingly easy—no eggs, no dairy, just delicious plant-based goodness.
Why Chocolate and Banana are the Ultimate Duo
Bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while cocoa adds richness and depth. Together, they create a flavor that feels indulgent but still nourishing. Plus, bananas act as an egg replacer, making them the perfect star ingredient in vegan baking.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients
- 1/3 cup unsweetened soy milk or other plant milk
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds
- 3 medium-large overripe bananas about 1 1/2 cups mashed
- 1/2 cup melted vegan butter or oil
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all purpose flour
- 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa powder or natural cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup vegan chocolate chips
Step-by-Step Recipe Instructions
Instructions
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F and grease a standard loaf pan (8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inches or 9 x 5 inches). I also like to line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.
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Pour the soy milk into a glass measuring cup or bowl and stir in the ground flaxseeds with a fork. Let sit for a few minutes to thicken.
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In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth. Scoop it into a measuring cup to make sure you have about 1 1/2 cups, then return to the bowl.
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Stir the melted vegan butter into the bananas, then add the brown sugar and milk/flax mixture. Stir well with a large spoon until combined.
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Add the flour and cocoa powder on top of the wet ingredients, then sprinkle the baking soda and salt on top. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to over mix.
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Gently fold in 3/4 cup of the chocolate chips, leaving the rest for the top.
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Pour into the prepared pan and sprinkle the rest of the chocolate chips on top. Place in the center rack of the oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then carefully transfer to a cooling rack. Let cool for at least 30 minutes if possible, as this will make it easier to slice. Serve and enjoy!
Notes
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Oil free: Use applesauce instead of melted vegan butter.
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Gluten free: Use a gluten free flour mix. May also sub spelt flour or white whole wheat flour for a whole grain option.
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Nut free: Use a nut free milk and make sure your vegan butter doesn't contain nuts.
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Sugar: Granulated sugar or coconut sugar will work in place of brown sugar. You could also use 1/2 cup of maple syrup instead.
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Muffins instead: Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F, divide into muffin liners and bake for 20-24 minutes, or until done.
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Leftovers/freezing: Cover leftover banana bread and keep at room temperature 1-2 days, or keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Banana bread freezes very well, too.
Nutritional Breakdown of Vegan Chocolate Banana Bread
Nutrition
Tips for Perfect Vegan Banana Bread Every Time
How to Keep It Moist and Fluffy
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Don’t overmix—stir just until combined.
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Use very ripe bananas for extra sweetness and moisture.
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Add a splash of vinegar to activate baking soda for extra rise.
Storage Tips – Fridge vs. Freezer
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Room temp: 2–3 days in an airtight container.
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Fridge: Up to 1 week.
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Freezer: Wrap slices individually; keeps up to 3 months.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overmixing the Batter
Mixing too much makes the bread dense instead of fluffy. Stir gently.
Using Unripe Bananas
Green bananas won’t bring enough sweetness or moisture—wait until they’re brown-spotted.
Variations of Vegan Chocolate Banana Bread
Gluten-Free Version
Swap flour with a gluten-free blend like Bob’s Red Mill.
Nut-Free Version
Skip nuts and use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
High-Protein Version
Replace some flour with protein powder, or use soy milk for a boost.
Fun Ways to Serve Vegan Chocolate Banana Bread
As a Breakfast Treat
Pair with coffee or a smoothie for an energizing start.
Dessert Pairings
Top with vegan ice cream, drizzle with chocolate sauce, or add fresh berries.
On-the-Go Snack Ideas
Slice, wrap, and take it with you for a post-gym snack or work break.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Can I make this recipe without sugar?
Yes! You can use maple syrup, agave, or just rely on extra ripe bananas for sweetness.
Q2. What’s the best oil substitute?
Unsweetened applesauce works great instead of oil.
Q3. How do I know when the bread is done?
A toothpick should come out with just a few moist crumbs—not wet batter.
Q4. Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
Absolutely! Just bake for 20–25 minutes in a muffin tin.
Q5. Is vegan chocolate banana bread healthier than regular?
Yes, it’s lower in saturated fat and cholesterol since it’s egg- and dairy-free.
Q6. What’s the best plant milk for baking?
Soy milk for protein, oat milk for creaminess, almond milk for nutty flavor.
Conclusion – Why You Should Try Vegan Chocolate Banana Bread Today
Vegan chocolate banana bread is proof that plant-based baking doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. It’s moist, chocolaty, easy to make, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, dessert, or a midday snack, it’s guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth while keeping things cruelty-free.
👉 Give it a try, and you might just discover your new favorite vegan indulgence.
