Easy Date & Banana Loaf
5th January 2026
A soft, naturally sweet Banana & Date Loaf that’s quick and easy to make. Moist, full of flavour, and a great way to use up ripe bananas, this loaf makes a delicious snack for the whole family. Enjoy it sliced for lunchboxes, after-school treats, or simply with a cosy cup of tea.
Ingredients
170 g pitted dates
4 very ripe bananas
120 ml apple sauce
60 ml coconut oil, melted
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
250 g plain flour
1¼ teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ teaspoon salt
Optional: chopped walnuts (contains nuts)
Method
Place the dates in a bowl, cover with hot water, and soak for 20 minutes.
Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease a 20 × 10 cm loaf tin.
Drain the dates and blend them with the bananas, apple sauce, coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
In a large bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Add the blended mixture to the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
Fold in the walnuts if using.
Pour the mixture into the prepared loaf tin and level the top.
Bake for 45–60 minutes, or until a knife inserted into the centre comes out clean.
Cool in the tin for 20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Allergen Information
Contains: gluten (wheat)
Optional ingredient: nuts
Always check ingredient labels and adapt to suit dietary requirements
Storage
Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Can be sliced and frozen for up to 3 months.
Tips & Variations
Swap walnuts for other seeds or leave them out for a nut-free version.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth and flavour.
Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
Perfect for slicing into small pieces for toddlers or larger slices for lunchboxes.