Name: Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Cinnamon Crumble Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 250 g flour; 2 tsp baking powder; ½ tsp salt; 60 ml oil (e.g., rapeseed oil); 75 ml plant milk; 50 g sugar; 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 ripe bananas (about 350–400 g); 100 g sugar; 2 tbsp cinnamon; 60 g flour; 20 g sugar; 20 g brown sugar; 45 g vegan margarine (cold); 1 tsp cinnamon; 120 g powdered sugar; 4–5 tbsp plant milk (or more if needed); ½ tsp vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe

If you adore the warm, comforting aroma of cinnamon paired with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, you are in for a treat with this Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Cinnamon Crumble Recipe. This delightful loaf is a perfect balance of moist banana bread, a spicy cinnamon swirl running through it, and a buttery cinnamon crumble topping that adds an irresistible crunch. Whether you are vegan or simply seeking a cozy, flavorful baked good, this recipe brings together simple ingredients with a touch of magic to create an unforgettable taste experience.

A loaf of banana bread with a crumbly brown streusel topping drizzled with white icing sits on a white rectangular marble board with a leather strap at one end; the loaf is cut to show its moist inside with visible banana pieces and a brown cinnamon swirl near the middle, one slice lays flat in front, showing the crumbly top in detail. In the background, a small glass jar of light brown cinnamon powder with a wooden scoop and cinnamon sticks, along with a glass jar of milk, sit on a white marbled surface, with a textured beige cloth beneath the board. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Cinnamon Crumble Recipe plays a crucial role, contributing layers of flavor, texture, or moisture that elevate the final loaf. From the ripe bananas providing natural sweetness to the cinnamon that warms every bite, these essentials combine to make a truly special bread.

250 g flour: The base of the bread giving it structure and a soft crumb.
2 tsp baking powder: Ensures the bread rises nicely, making it light and fluffy.
½ tsp salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors.
60 ml oil (e.g., rapeseed oil): Adds moisture and richness without overpowering.
75 ml plant milk*: Keeps the bread vegan and tender.
50 g sugar*: Adds a touch of sweetness to the batter.
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar: Reacts with the baking powder for lift and a soft texture.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses a delicate and welcoming aroma.
3 ripe bananas (about 350–400 g): The star ingredient for sweetness and moistness.
100 g sugar (for cinnamon swirl): Combines with cinnamon to create the signature swirl.
2 tbsp cinnamon (for cinnamon swirl): Adds warmth and fragrant spice.
60 g flour (for crumble): The foundation of the crunchy topping.
20 g sugar (for crumble): Sweetens the crumble just right.
20 g brown sugar (for crumble): Adds depth and a slight molasses flavor.
45 g vegan margarine (cold, for crumble): Creates the crumbly texture you’ll love.
1 tsp cinnamon (for crumble): Ties the crumble to the rest of the flavors.
120 g powdered sugar (for glaze): Brings a smooth sweetness to the glaze.
4–5 tbsp plant milk (for glaze): Adjusts consistency for the perfect drizzle.
½ tsp vanilla extract (for glaze): Enhances the overall flavor and aroma of the glaze.

How to Make Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Cinnamon Crumble Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cinnamon-Sugar Swirl

Start by combining 100 g sugar with 2 tablespoons of cinnamon in a small bowl. This simple mixture will create the gorgeous cinnamon swirl that winds its way through the banana bread, offering those pockets of fragrant spice that make every bite unforgettable.

Step 2: Make the Crumble

Next, prepare the crumble by quickly kneading together 60 g flour, 20 g sugar, 20 g brown sugar, 45 g cold vegan margarine, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon until you form a dough-like texture. Set this aside; it will top your loaf with a satisfyingly crunchy finish.

Step 3: Preheat the Oven and Prepare Your Pan

Heat your oven to 180°C using top and bottom heat. Lightly grease a loaf pan so your banana bread doesn’t stick and can be removed with ease once baked.

Step 4: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together 250 g flour, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and ½ teaspoon salt. In another bowl, combine 60 ml oil, 75 ml plant milk, 50 g sugar, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir gently, being careful not to overmix. Mash the ripe bananas until smooth and fold them into the batter, mixing just to combine. This keeps your bread tender and moist.

Step 5: Layer the Swirl and Batter

Pour about half the batter into your greased loaf pan, then sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture generously over it. Add the remaining batter on top, then use a fork to swirl the cinnamon mixture into the batter with a gentle spiral motion. This step creates that beautiful and flavorful cinnamon pattern throughout the loaf. Finally, sprinkle your crumble dough evenly on top for an irresistible finish.

Step 6: Bake the Bread

Bake for approximately 50 to 70 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean and the bread has a golden top. Once cooked, remove from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan – this makes it easier to add the glaze next.

Step 7: Add the Vanilla Glaze

Whisk together 120 g powdered sugar, 4 to 5 tablespoons plant milk, and ½ teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle this glaze over the cooled bread evenly to add a luscious, sweet finishing touch that brings everything together.

How to Serve Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Cinnamon Crumble Recipe

Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Cinnamon Crumble Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of cinnamon powder or a dusting of powdered sugar complements this bread beautifully. If you want to elevate the presentation, try adding toasted walnuts or pecans on top of the glaze for a bit more crunch and a nutty flavor.

Side Dishes

This vegan banana bread is spectacular on its own but pairs wonderfully with a dollop of vegan yogurt or a smear of almond butter. A hot cup of your favorite plant-based coffee or tea will balance the spice and sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the bread thickly and lightly toast it to bring out the crumble’s crunch. Serve with fresh fruit slices or make it a decadent afternoon treat by layering with vegan cream cheese and a drizzle of maple syrup.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Cinnamon Crumble Recipe wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to retain freshness and moisture.

Freezing

If you want to save some for later, this bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it securely in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place slices in freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or bring to room temperature before serving.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 20 to 30 seconds to revive that fresh-baked feeling. The crumble topping crisps up delightfully when lightly toasted.

FAQs

Can I use gluten-free flour for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend, but ensure it contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to help maintain the bread’s structure.

What type of plant milk works best?

Any unsweetened plant milk such as almond, soy, oat, or cashew milk works well. Choose your favorite based on flavor preference or dietary needs.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots are ideal. They are sweeter and mash easily, giving your bread that perfect moistness and flavor.

Can I make this bread nut-free?

Absolutely. This recipe does not require nuts, and omitting any nut-based ingredients from optional toppings will keep it nut-free and safe for allergy sufferers.

Is the crumble topping essential?

While the crumble adds fantastic texture and flavor, the bread still tastes wonderful without it. Feel free to skip or modify the topping according to your preference.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread with Cinnamon Crumble Recipe is more than just a loaf—it’s a celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients woven together to create magic. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, a cozy snack, or dessert, it’s bound to become one of your favorite go-to comfort foods. I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and fill your kitchen with the heartwarming scent of cinnamon and bananas!