This vegan Blueberry Banana Bread is a moist, tender, and naturally sweet loaf perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert. Sweetened with maple syrup and enriched with almond flour, it bursts with juicy blueberries in every bite. It’s easy to make, adaptable to be gluten-free, and can be served plain, with vegan butter, or topped with creamy vegan cream cheese frosting.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
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2 overripe mashed bananas
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1 cup plain, unsweetened almond or oat milk
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¼ cup melted vegan butter
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¾ cup maple syrup
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1 tsp baking powder
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1 tsp baking soda
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1½ cups regular or gluten-free all-purpose flour
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1 cup almond flour (or an extra ½ cup of all-purpose flour)
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1 cup fresh blueberries (or frozen)
Optional Cream Cheese Frosting:
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2 oz vegan cream cheese
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2 tbsp melted vegan butter
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¾ cup powdered sugar
Directions
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
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Mash bananas in a large bowl. Mix in milk, maple syrup, melted butter, baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla.
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Stir in all-purpose flour and almond flour until combined. Fold in blueberries.
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Pour batter into the loaf pan and bake for about 50 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If browning too quickly, cover with foil and continue baking.
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Cool before removing from pan. If making frosting, beat vegan cream cheese, butter, and powdered sugar until smooth, then spread or drizzle over the loaf.
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Serve plain, with vegan butter, or frosted.
Nutrients (per unfrosted slice, approx.)
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Calories: 163 kcal
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Carbohydrates: 22 g
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Protein: 2 g
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Fat: 8 g
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Saturated Fat: 1 g
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Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
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Monounsaturated Fat: 1 g
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Sodium: 186 mg
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Potassium: 127 mg
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Fiber: 2 g
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Sugar: 16 g
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Vitamin A: 199 IU
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Vitamin C: 3 mg
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Calcium: 88 mg
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Iron: 1 mg
The Perfect Flavor Balance
What makes this banana bread truly special is the harmony of flavors. The ripe bananas bring a mellow, fruity sweetness that forms the foundation of the loaf. Maple syrup adds a caramel-like depth while keeping the sweetness natural and unrefined. Blueberries provide a pop of tart juiciness, creating a contrast that prevents the bread from tasting overly sweet. The hint of vanilla rounds everything out, giving a warm, comforting aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes. Each ingredient is carefully balanced to deliver a satisfying bite that feels decadent yet wholesome.
Moisture and Texture
One of the standout qualities of this vegan blueberry banana bread is its incredible texture. The almond flour adds richness and a slight nuttiness while keeping the crumb tender and moist. The natural pectin in bananas helps bind the batter and maintain a soft, cohesive structure without the need for eggs. When baked, the blueberries release their juices, creating little pockets of moisture throughout the loaf. The result is a bread that stays soft for days, making it ideal for make-ahead breakfasts or snacks.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is not only delicious but also offers several nutritional advantages. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber, supporting heart health and digestion. Almond flour brings healthy fats, plant-based protein, and vitamin E to the table, making the bread more satiating. Blueberries are loaded with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and support for brain health. Using maple syrup instead of refined sugar provides trace minerals like manganese and zinc, making this a treat you can feel good about enjoying regularly.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Adaptability
A major appeal of this recipe is its flexibility. While it’s naturally vegan, it can also be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. The almond flour not only enhances texture but also ensures the bread stays moist even without traditional wheat flour. For those with nut allergies, almond flour can be swapped for additional all-purpose flour or oat flour with excellent results. The use of plant-based milk, such as almond or oat, ensures the bread is dairy-free while still providing a creamy, rich texture.
Versatile Serving Options
This banana bread is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings. Spread it with vegan butter for a simple, satisfying breakfast or enjoy it with a layer of creamy vegan cream cheese frosting for a dessert-worthy presentation. Fresh berries, a drizzle of almond butter, or a sprinkle of cinnamon can take each slice to another level. It’s equally enjoyable served warm from the oven, at room temperature, or chilled for a denser texture.
Baking Tips for Success
To ensure the perfect loaf, it’s important to start with overripe bananas, which are softer, sweeter, and easier to mash. This ensures maximum banana flavor and natural sweetness. Gently folding in the blueberries prevents them from breaking apart and turning the batter blue. If using frozen blueberries, it’s best to add them straight from the freezer to reduce bleeding. Keeping an eye on the baking time and using the toothpick test will help prevent overbaking, ensuring the bread remains moist and tender.
Storage and Freezing
Vegan blueberry banana bread stores exceptionally well. Once cooled, it can be wrapped tightly and kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully—slice the loaf and wrap individual portions for quick, grab-and-go snacks or breakfasts. To reheat, simply warm slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to restore their fresh-baked softness.
A Crowd-Pleasing Choice
This recipe has universal appeal, making it a great option for gatherings, potlucks, or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Its naturally sweet, fruity flavor pleases both adults and children, while its wholesome ingredients satisfy health-conscious eaters. Because it’s free from animal products and can easily be made gluten-free, it accommodates a wide range of dietary preferences, ensuring everyone can enjoy a slice.
Why Blueberry Banana Bread is Timeless
Banana bread has long been a kitchen staple for using up overripe bananas, but the addition of blueberries elevates it into something truly special. The berries add freshness and a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the comforting familiarity of banana bread. This combination transforms a humble loaf into a seasonal favorite that feels bright and fresh, especially during spring and summer months when blueberries are at their peak.
Conclusion
Vegan Blueberry Banana Bread is the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and nourishment. It delivers a soft, moist crumb filled with bursts of juicy blueberries and the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, all while being free of dairy and eggs. The addition of almond flour enhances both texture and nutrition, making it a satisfying choice for any time of day. Its adaptability for gluten-free diets, ease of preparation, and ability to store well make it a go-to recipe for home bakers. Whether served plain, lightly toasted with vegan butter, or topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, this loaf brings warmth, joy, and wholesome indulgence to the table. Once you’ve made it, it’s bound to become a repeat favorite, perfect for sharing or savoring slice by slice.