Vegan desserts can be just as indulgent and satisfying as their non-vegan counterparts. One of the most beloved options is vegan banana cake — a moist, fluffy, and rich dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.
This recipe blends ripe bananas with a few simple ingredients to create a cake that’s not only delicious but also easy to make.
Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to try something new, this banana cake is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients You Need
The beauty of this vegan banana cake lies in its simplicity. You’ll need just a handful of pantry staples, making it accessible even for beginner bakers. Here’s what you’ll need:
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups of all-purpose flour: This provides structure to the cake.
- 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon of baking soda: Works with the baking powder to add lift.
- ¼ teaspoon of salt: Enhances the flavor by balancing the sweetness.
Wet Ingredients
- ¾ cup of brown sugar: Adds moisture and a deep caramel flavor.
- 1 cup of ripe mashed bananas: The star of the show, providing natural sweetness and moisture.
- ½ cup of neutral vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender.
- ½ cup of non-dairy milk (such as almond or soy milk): Adds moisture and binds the ingredients together.
- 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar: Reacts with baking soda to help the cake rise.
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a delightful aroma.
Optional Add-ins
- ½ cup of chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans): For added texture and flavor.
- ½ cup of vegan chocolate chips: For a chocolatey twist.
How To Make Vegan Banana Cake
1. Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or an 8-inch round cake pan. Line the bottom with parchment paper to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal.
2. Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure the mixture is well combined, as this will ensure even distribution of the leavening agents, which is crucial for a consistent rise.
3. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, mashed bananas, oil, non-dairy milk, apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has dissolved. The mashed bananas should be well incorporated, as they are the key to the cake’s moist texture.
4. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients
Slowly pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to gently fold the mixture together. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake. Stir just until there are no visible streaks of flour. If you’re adding nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
6. Prepare the Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, combine the vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Use an electric mixer or a whisk to beat the mixture until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more powdered sugar if necessary, until you reach your desired thickness.
7. Cool the Cake and Frost
Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. After the cake has cooled, spread the vegan cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. You can use a spatula to create smooth or swirled patterns, depending on your preference.
8. Serve and Enjoy
Once frosted, slice the cake and serve. The combination of the moist banana cake and the tangy-sweet cream cheese frosting creates a delightful balance of flavors that’s perfect for any occasion.
Frosting Ideas
While this cake is delicious on its own, adding a frosting can elevate it to the next level. Here are a few vegan-friendly options:
- Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting: Combine vegan cream cheese, powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla extract for a tangy and sweet topping.
- Peanut Butter Frosting: Mix peanut butter, powdered sugar, and a bit of non-dairy milk for a nutty, creamy finish.
- Chocolate Ganache: Melt vegan chocolate with a bit of coconut milk for a rich, decadent glaze.
How To Make It Even Better
- Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
- Customize your cake: This recipe is versatile. Feel free to add in your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or even a swirl of peanut butter or Nutella before baking.
Why I Love This Recipe
I absolutely adore this vegan banana cake recipe because it’s a perfect blend of simplicity and indulgence. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, making the cake irresistibly moist and flavorful. Unlike some vegan cakes that can be dry or crumbly, this one remains soft and tender, even days after baking.
What I love most, though, is the versatility. You can enjoy it plain with a cup of coffee or dress it up with a frosting for a more decadent dessert. It’s a great way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Plus, the recipe is incredibly forgiving — if you’re out of one ingredient, you can often substitute another with great results.
This cake also wins for its broad appeal. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, sharing it with friends, or simply enjoying a slice by yourself, this vegan banana cake never disappoints. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you feel good about what you’re eating, knowing it’s plant-based and made with wholesome ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
People will fall in love with this vegan banana cake because it delivers on all fronts: taste, texture, and ease. The cake is moist, fluffy, and full of rich banana flavor that’s perfectly complemented by the sweetness of brown sugar and the warmth of vanilla. The recipe is simple enough for novice bakers yet delicious enough to impress at any gathering.
Another reason this cake stands out is its versatility. You can enjoy it plain, with a light dusting of powdered sugar, or with a creamy vegan frosting. It’s a treat that feels indulgent but isn’t overly heavy, making it perfect for any time of day. The cake’s texture is so light and airy, you’ll find it hard to believe it’s completely vegan.
Furthermore, the recipe uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find, making it accessible to everyone. Whether you’re vegan or simply looking to cut down on dairy and eggs, this banana cake is a must-try. It’s a great way to satisfy your sweet tooth while sticking to a plant-based lifestyle.
