Can I use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil in banana bread?

Yes! Coconut oil is a great alternative. It adds a subtle coconut flavor and keeps the loaf moist. Just make sure it's melted and cooled before mixing in.

Is banana bread with oil healthier than with butter?

Banana bread with oil often has a softer, moister texture and can be a better option if you're avoiding dairy. Using heart-healthy oils like avocado or olive oil makes it even more nutritious.

How do I store banana bread made with oil?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap slices and freeze them individually for up to 3 months.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this banana bread recipe?

Absolutely! Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips before baking for extra texture and flavor. Just don’t overmix the batter.

What kind of oil works best for banana bread?

Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or light olive oil work best. They keep the crumb soft and let the banana flavor shine through.

Banana Bread with Oil

🌼 A Note from Sophia

In the spring, everything feels lighter — the meals, the mood, the mornings. This recipe was born from one of those moments: I had ripe bananas but no butter in sight. What I had was oil — and what came out of the oven? A banana bread so soft and springy, it instantly became a favorite.

This banana bread with oil is the recipe I turn to when I want something effortless but utterly comforting. It’s dairy-free, one-bowl, and gives you that rich, moist texture every time. If you’re someone who’s short on time but big on cozy flavor — you’ll love this loaf.

💛 Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread with Oil

✔ One-bowl magic — no mixer needed
✔ Dairy-free and great for sensitive tummies
✔ Stays moist and fluffy for days
✔ Light enough for spring mornings, cozy enough for anytime
✔ Kid-friendly, mom-approved, and beginner-perfect

📝 Ingredients

3 ripe bananas (medium, mashed)
½ cup vegetable oil (or neutral oil of choice)
2 large eggs
¾ cup brown sugar
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
¼ tsp salt

Optional Spring Add-ins:

⅓ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Zest of ½ lemon for a springy twist
Sprinkle of coconut sugar or oats on top

👩‍🍳 Instructions: How to Make Banana Bread with Oil

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mash bananas until smooth.
Add in eggs, oil, vanilla, and sugar. Whisk until fully combined.
Sprinkle in flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gently fold until just mixed — do not overmix.
Pour batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
Slice, serve, and enjoy — warm or at room temperature.

💡 Notes & Tips

Use spotty bananas: The riper, the sweeter and more flavorful.
No brown sugar? You can use white sugar + a tablespoon of molasses.
Want extra fluff? Add 2 tablespoons of plain yogurt if you’re not strictly dairy-free.
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days on the counter, or slice and freeze for up to 3 months.

Looking for more cozy bakes?

Try our Ultimate Banana Bread Recipe for a classic butter-based version.
Or lighten things up with our Hawaiian Banana Bread for a tropical spring vibe.
Need banana swaps? Check out Best Substitutes for Bananas in Baking — perfect for allergy-friendly kitchens.

FAQ – Answering Your Banana Bread Questions

Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes! Use light-tasting olive oil to avoid bitterness.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just swap in a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.

Why is my banana bread dense?
Usually from overmixing or using under-ripe bananas. Gently fold and use very ripe fruit.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes! Just divide between two pans and bake side-by-side.

🌷 Meet Sophia Olivia

There’s nothing better than a warm slice of banana bread and a quiet morning. I’m Sophia — the creator of Cuddle Recipes — and I grew up helping my mom bake in between busy days. My recipes are here to bring you that same calm, comfort, and effortless joy.

🌼 Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This banana bread with oil might be the easiest loaf you’ll ever bake — but don’t let the simplicity fool you. It’s flavorful, soft, and endlessly customizable.

📸 If you bake it, tag @CuddleRecipes on Facebook or Pinterest.
💬 Have questions or your own twist? Leave a comment — let’s bake this blog into a warm little community.

Hi! I’m Sophia. I created Cuddle Recipes to help busy cooks and beginners feel confident and calm in the kitchen. Every recipe is simple, special, and full of joy — just like this banana bread.