Vegan Banana Bread
If you’re looking for a scrumptious treat that’s both healthy and satisfying, look no further than this vegan banana bread. Packed with ripe bananas, this recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert—it’s sure to be a hit with everyone, vegan or not! Let’s dive into the ingredients and get baking.
Ingredients
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
– 1/2 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
– 1/2 cup walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields 1 loaf, serving about 8 slices. Preparation time is 10 minutes, and cooking time is about 50-60 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each slice (approximately 1/8 of the loaf) contains:
– Calories: 150
– Protein: 2g
– Carbohydrates: 24g
– Fat: 6g
– Fiber: 2g
This nutritional value is based on one slice for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
3. Stir in the melted coconut oil until well combined.
4. Add the brown sugar or maple syrup and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
7. Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if desired.
8. Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
10. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute coconut oil with applesauce for a lower fat option. Use whole wheat flour for added fiber, or replace brown sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier sweetener. Feel free to mix in your favorite nuts or dried fruits!
Serving and Pairings
This vegan banana bread pairs wonderfully with nut butter, such as almond or peanut butter. Serve it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack, or enjoy it plain for a quick breakfast.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply slice and warm in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using unripe bananas won’t achieve the desired sweetness.
- Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense loaf.
- Not greasing the pan properly may cause sticking.
- Skipping the cooling time can result in a crumbly texture.
- Oven temperature variations can affect baking time.
Helpful Tips
- Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Experiment with spices like nutmeg for additional flavor.
- Check for doneness with a toothpick inserted in the center.
- Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum.
How can I make my banana bread sweeter?
If you prefer a sweeter bread, add an extra 1/4 cup of sugar or use ripe bananas with more brown spots for natural sweetness.
Can I add other fruits to the recipe?
Absolutely! Chopped apples, berries, or even shredded zucchini can be added for variety and nutrition.
What can I do with leftover banana bread?
Leftover banana bread can be toasted and topped with your favorite spreads or used to make French toast for a delicious breakfast.
Is it possible to bake mini loaves?
Yes, you can divide the batter into mini loaf pans and adjust the baking time to about 30-40 minutes, checking for doneness.
Conclusion
This vegan banana bread is an easy, delicious way to enjoy a classic treat while sticking to plant-based ingredients. Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Try it out and share it with friends and family—you won’t be disappointed!
Vegan Banana Bread
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon optional
- 1/2 cup walnuts or chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- Stir in the melted coconut oil until well combined.
- Add the brown sugar or maple syrup and vanilla extract, mixing thoroughly.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in walnuts or chocolate chips if desired.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.