Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.9 from 64 reviews

This vegan Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful treat made with a blend of all-purpose and almond flours, sweetened naturally with ripe bananas and coconut sugar. It features a delightful cinnamon swirl and crunchy pecans, topped with banana halves and a buttery finish. Perfect as a wholesome snack or breakfast item, this bread combines warmth and spice with a tender crumb, all while being entirely plant-based.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices)

Ingredients

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup almond flour (ground blanched almonds)
  • 4 tsp baking powder
  • 1/3 cup coconut sugar
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Wet Ingredients

  • 3 medium ripe bananas (1 cup, peeled and mashed with a fork)
  • 3 tbsp almond milk
  • 3 tbsp vegan butter (melted) + additional for brushing
  • 3 tbsp almond butter

Nuts and Toppings

  • 2/3 cup pecans (chopped, plus 2 tbsp reserved for topping)
  • 1 banana (halved lengthways for topping)

Cinnamon Swirl

  • 3 tbsp vegan butter (melted)
  • 1/4 cup coconut sugar
  • 2 tbsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Prepare the oven and tin: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a standard 9×5-inch baking tin with parchment paper, then spray or brush the parchment with vegan butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Roast the pecans: Spread the pecans on a parchment-lined baking tray and roast them in the oven for about 5 minutes until they are golden and fragrant. Remove and let cool, then roughly chop. Set aside 2 tablespoons for topping the bread later.
  3. Mix dry ingredients: In a small bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, coconut sugar, and salt thoroughly to ensure even distribution of leavening and sweetness.
  4. Combine wet ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix together the almond milk, melted vegan butter, and almond butter until smooth and creamy.
  5. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir to combine. Then fold in the mashed bananas and chopped pecans gently with a spatula, taking care not to overmix.
  6. Prepare cinnamon swirl mix: In a small bowl, whisk together the melted vegan butter, coconut sugar, and ground cinnamon until well blended.
  7. Layer the batter and cinnamon swirl: Spread one-third of the batter evenly on the bottom of the prepared baking tin. Dollop one-third of the cinnamon mixture over the batter and use a sharp knife or toothpick to create a swirl pattern. Repeat layering two more times, ending with the batter and swirl on top, so there are three layers in total.
  8. Add banana topping and pecans: Press the two banana halves, cut side up, onto the top of the batter. Brush them lightly with melted vegan butter and sprinkle with the reserved chopped pecans.
  9. Bake the bread: Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, checking for doneness. If the bread starts browning too much after 20 minutes, loosely cover the tin with foil to prevent overbrowning.
  10. Cool and serve: Allow the bread to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • The bananas should be very ripe for optimal sweetness and moisture.
  • Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender and moist.
  • Use parchment paper lining for easy removal without sticking.
  • Roasting the pecans enhances their flavor and crunch.
  • Adjust baking time slightly depending on your oven for perfect doneness.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Bread
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan