Banana bread is one of those universally loved baked goods, filling the house with a comforting, sweet aroma as it bakes in the oven. But have you ever tried making it vegan? With ripe bananas and the addition of crunchy pistachios, this Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread is a perfect way to take a classic recipe to the next level. It’s moist, fluffy, and full of flavor, making it an ideal treat for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert.
I first created this recipe when I was experimenting with plant-based alternatives and wanted to combine my love for banana bread with the earthy, nutty goodness of pistachios. The result was a delightful balance of natural sweetness from the bananas and a satisfying crunch from the pistachios. Plus, it’s super easy to make and comes together in just one bowl!
Whether you’re following a vegan diet or simply looking for a healthier version of the beloved banana bread, this recipe will quickly become your go-to. It’s perfect for meal prep, sharing with friends, or even enjoying a slice with a cup of tea on a lazy afternoon.
Table of contents
Why this Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread Works
What makes this Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread stand out from the usual banana bread recipes is the unique combination of flavors and textures. The bananas provide a natural sweetness and moisture, while the pistachios add a rich, nutty crunch that elevates the entire loaf. The recipe also swaps traditional eggs and dairy for plant-based ingredients, ensuring it’s suitable for vegan diets while still delivering the same satisfying texture.
The best part? This banana bread is incredibly versatile. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, you can easily substitute the flour with a gluten-free blend. If you prefer a sweeter bread, feel free to add an extra tablespoon of maple syrup or agave. You can even customize it by adding extra mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut.
What truly sets this recipe apart is the simplicity, it’s all about quality ingredients. The bananas are the stars, and they make the bread naturally sweet and moist without relying on refined sugars. Combine that with the pistachios, and you’ve got a banana bread that’s not only tasty but also a bit more exciting than your traditional loaf.
Recipe Card
Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread Recipe
Cuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy8
servings15
minutes1
hour250
kcalThis Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread is moist, nutty, and deliciously tender. Made with ripe bananas and crunchy pistachios, it’s a perfect easy, plant-based treat for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup coconut oil (melted)
1/4 cup plant-based milk (e.g., almond milk)
1/2 cup sugar or maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup whole wheat flour
1/2 cup crushed pistachios
1/2 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
Pinch of salt
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, mix mashed bananas, coconut oil, plant-based milk, sugar, and vanilla.
- In another bowl, combine flours, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in crushed pistachios, leaving a few for sprinkling on top.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle remaining pistachios.
- Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing. Enjoy!
Notes
- Ensure the bananas are fully ripe for maximum sweetness.
- Can substitute coconut oil with olive oil for a different flavor.
- Use gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.
Tips for the Perfect Pistachio Banana Bread:
- Use Overripe Bananas: The more ripe and spotty the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be.
- Don’t Over-mix: Over-mixing can make the bread dense, so mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Try Different Nuts: Swap pistachios with walnuts or pecans for a different flavor.
- Add Chocolate Chips: For a sweet twist, mix in some vegan chocolate chips.
- Toast the Pistachios: For an extra depth of flavor, consider toasting your pistachios before folding them into the batter. Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and gives them a crunchy texture that stands out in the bread. Just toast them lightly in a dry skillet for a few minutes, being careful not to burn them.
Recipe Variant:
One of the beautiful things about Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread is how adaptable it is. Whether you’re looking to experiment with different flavors or cater to dietary preferences, there are countless variations you can try. Here are some fun ideas to elevate your banana bread or tailor it to your needs:
1. Chocolate Chip Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread
If you’re a chocolate lover, why not add a handful of dairy-free chocolate chips to your batter? The combination of rich, melty chocolate with the nutty pistachios and naturally sweet bananas is irresistible. Simply fold in about ½ cup of dairy-free chocolate chips when you add the pistachios for a sweet twist. It’s a crowd-pleasing version, perfect for dessert or a treat with your morning coffee.
2. Coconut Flakes Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread
Coconut and banana are a match made in heaven, and adding unsweetened shredded coconut will give your banana bread a tropical flair. The coconut adds both texture and a slightly sweet, nutty flavor that complements the pistachios beautifully. You can either mix the coconut into the batter or sprinkle it on top before baking for a toasted finish.
3. Gluten-Free Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread
If you’re avoiding gluten, this banana bread recipe can easily be made gluten-free by swapping the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to choose one that is suitable for baking, and you may need to add a little extra moisture if the batter feels too thick. You can also try using oat flour or almond flour for a slightly different texture.
4. Spiced Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread
For a warm, comforting version, add some aromatic spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom. These spices will infuse the banana bread with cozy flavors, making it perfect for colder months. You can add about 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon or a pinch of nutmeg to the batter. This variant is especially great for holiday baking or when you want to spice up your traditional banana bread.
Frequently Asked Questions about Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread:
Yes, use gluten-free flour blends instead of all-purpose flour.
You can use olive oil, vegetable oil, or even applesauce for a lower-fat option.
Absolutely. Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.
It’s best to use unsalted pistachios for banana bread to control the saltiness. If you only have salted pistachios, you can reduce the amount of added salt in the recipe to balance the flavors.
While bananas are key to the flavor and moisture in this recipe, you can substitute with other fruits like applesauce or mashed avocado, though it will alter the texture and taste slightly. Make sure to use a moist substitute to keep the bread soft.
Final Thoughts
This Vegan Pistachio Banana Bread is the perfect blend of indulgence and healthy ingredients, making it a go-to option for a satisfying breakfast, snack, or dessert. With its naturally sweet bananas, rich pistachios, and simple vegan ingredients, it’s an easy and delicious treat for anyone following a plant-based diet, or anyone who just loves a great loaf of banana bread. Whether you’re baking for yourself, a family gathering, or a special occasion, this recipe will impress!
I hope you give this recipe a try and discover how simple it can be to create a bakery-worthy treat at home. The rich, nutty flavor of the pistachios combined with the sweetness of ripe bananas makes for a bread that’s as delicious as it is nutritious. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe—feel free to get creative with add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit for a fun twist.
If you like this special banana bread, I suggest you try these 4 Best Banana Bread Recipes!
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