Vegan banana cake is the perfect way to satisfy your sweet tooth while staying true to your plant-based lifestyle. This recipe will guide you through creating a moist, delicious, and unbelievably easy vegan banana cake that will have everyone asking for seconds.
The Secret to a Perfect Vegan Banana Cake
The key to a fantastic vegan banana cake lies in using the right ingredients and techniques. This recipe calls for simple, plant-based substitutes that mimic the texture and taste of traditional banana cake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup vegan butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup plant-based milk
Ingredients for vegan banana cake
Step-by-Step Guide to Baking the Best Vegan Banana Cake
Follow these simple steps to create a bakery-worthy vegan banana cake:
- Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together the softened vegan butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the plant-based milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Frost: Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Pouring vegan banana cake batter into a pan.
Tips for the Best Vegan Banana Cake
- Ripeness Matters: Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. The browner the banana, the sweeter and more intense the banana flavor will be in your cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
- Test for Doneness: Use the toothpick test to ensure the cake is fully baked. If the toothpick comes out with wet batter, bake for a few more minutes.
Vegan banana cake baking in the oven
Delicious Frosting Options
- Vegan Cream Cheese Frosting: Tangy and sweet, this classic pairing complements the banana flavor perfectly.
- Peanut Butter Frosting: For peanut butter lovers, this frosting adds a rich and nutty dimension.
- Chocolate Ganache: A decadent and indulgent option, chocolate ganache pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the banana cake.
Vegan Baking Expert, Sarah Green, Recommends:
“Adding a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to your batter can enhance the warmth and complexity of the banana flavor.”
Frosting a vegan banana cake
Vegan Banana Cake: FAQs
Can I freeze vegan banana cake? Absolutely! This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
What can I substitute for plant-based milk? Any type of plant-based milk will work well in this recipe. Almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or even coconut milk are all great options.
Can I use a different type of oil instead of vegan butter? While vegan butter provides the closest flavor and texture, you can substitute it with an equal amount of neutral-flavored oil like canola oil or vegetable oil.
How can I tell if my bananas are ripe enough? Look for bananas with brown spots and a soft texture. They should be easy to mash.
Can I make this cake gluten-free? Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free 1:1 baking flour blend.
Why is my vegan banana cake crumbly? Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can result in a crumbly cake. Be sure to mix until just combined and measure the flour accurately.
Can I add nuts to this recipe? Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips would be a delicious addition to this cake.
Indulge in the Perfect Vegan Treat
This vegan banana cake recipe is sure to become a household favorite. It’s moist, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make. So grab your ripe bananas and get baking!
