VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

A classic VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY) recipe that is both delightful and nourishing! This bread is moist, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a healthy breakfast or a sweet snack, this vegan banana bread fits the bill. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll have a delicious treat in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for beginner bakers.
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients, this banana bread is a guilt-free indulgence.
• Versatile Options: You can customize it by adding walnuts or chocolate chips based on your preferences.
• Moist Texture: Thanks to ripe bananas and the right balance of ingredients, you’ll enjoy a perfectly moist loaf.
• Great for Meal Prep: This vegan banana bread can be made ahead of time and stored for later use.

Tools and Preparation

To make your baking experience smooth, gather the following tools before you start.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Fork or potato masher
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Essential for giving your banana bread its shape while baking.
• Mixing bowls: Helps keep your ingredients organized as you prepare the batter.
• Fork or potato masher: Perfect for mashing bananas quickly and efficiently.

Ingredients

A tried and true, classic vegan banana bread! Perfectly moist and delicious, this healthy vegan banana bread recipe makes a terrific snack or great way to start the day.

For the Bread

• 1 3/4 cups (210 g) spelt flour (whole wheat, unbleached all-purpose, or gluten free blend), see notes
• 1/3 cup (75 g) organic pure cane sugar (or 1/2 finely chopped dates)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• pinch of mineral salt
• 1/3 cup (75 ml) neutral flavored oil (or coconut oil in liquid state, vegan butter at room temp or applesauce)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 4 small or 3 large overripe bananas (about 1 1/2 – 1 3/4 cups (338-410g)), mashed
• 1/4 cup (56 ml) almond milk, use only if needed
• 1/2 – 2/3 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 –  1/2 cup chocolate chips (mini or regular)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

How to Make VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F and grease your loaf pan well to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

In a medium-sized mixing bowl:
1. Mash the bananas using a fork until smooth.
2. Add in the oil/applesauce and vanilla extract; mix until combined.
3. Incorporate the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Stir gently until just combined; avoid overmixing.

Step 3: Adjust Consistency if Needed

If your batter seems too thick:
– Add almond milk gradually until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for about 50 minutes to an hour. To check doneness:
– Perform the toothpick test by inserting it into the center; it should come out clean when done.

Step 5: Cooling Down

Once baked:
– Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 6: Storage Tips

Store covered on the counter for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to one week. You can also freeze it for up to two months; simply thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating as desired.

How to Serve VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

Serving vegan banana bread can be a delightful experience. Whether you enjoy it plain or with toppings, this versatile bread offers endless possibilities.

Toasted with Nut Butter

• Spread almond butter or peanut butter over warm slices for an extra creamy texture and flavor.

With Fresh Fruit Slices

• Pair the banana bread with fresh slices of strawberries, blueberries, or apple for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• Add a touch of sweetness by drizzling pure maple syrup on top before serving.

Served with Vegan Yogurt

• Enjoy a slice alongside a bowl of dairy-free yogurt for a balanced breakfast or snack.

As a Dessert with Coconut Whipped Cream

• Top your banana bread with coconut whipped cream for a decadent dessert option.

In a Breakfast Parfait

• Layer pieces of banana bread in a glass with vegan yogurt and berries for a stunning parfait.

How to Perfect VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

To achieve the best results with your vegan banana bread, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.

• Don’t overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to dense texture.

• Adjust baking time: Every oven is different; check your bread around 50 minutes using the toothpick test to avoid overbaking.

• Experiment with add-ins: Try adding walnuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits for added flavor and texture.

• Cool before slicing: Allow the banana bread to cool slightly before slicing to maintain its structure and moisture.

• Store properly: Keep leftovers covered at room temperature or refrigerate them to extend freshness.

Best Side Dishes for VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

Pairing side dishes with your vegan banana bread can enhance your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

1. Chia Pudding: A creamy and nutritious addition made from chia seeds soaked in almond milk, topped with fruit.

2. Smoothie Bowl: A thick smoothie base topped with your favorite fruits, nuts, and seeds makes for a vibrant side dish.

3. Vegan Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with sliced bananas and cinnamon pairs beautifully with banana bread.

4. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the banana bread.

5. Coconut Rice: Creamy coconut-infused rice served alongside brings tropical vibes that match well with banana flavors.

6. Avocado Toast: Savory avocado spread on whole grain toast provides a nice contrast to the sweet banana bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making vegan banana bread can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for. Here are some mistakes to avoid:

• Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas won’t provide the natural sweetness and moisture needed. Always use overripe bananas for the best flavor and texture.

• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bread dense and tough. Mix just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.

• Neglecting to measure ingredients: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for best results.

• Skipping the toothpick test: Not checking if it’s baked through can lead to undercooked bread. Insert a toothpick; it should come out clean when ready.

• Using the wrong flour type: The flour you choose affects texture. Stick with spelt flour or other recommended types for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep your vegan banana bread covered in an airtight container.
• It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

Freezing VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months.

Reheating VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a skillet on low heat, cover, and warm gently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making vegan banana bread that may help you:

How do I make VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY) gluten-free?

You can substitute spelt flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Ensure it’s suitable for baking to maintain texture.

Can I use different sweeteners in this recipe?

Yes! You can replace organic cane sugar with maple syrup or agave nectar, adjusting liquid ingredients accordingly.

How can I customize my VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)?

Add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits for extra flavor. Chocolate chips also make a delightful addition!

What can I serve with vegan banana bread?

Enjoy it plain, spread with nut butter, or topped with fresh fruit. It’s also great with coconut yogurt on the side!

Final Thoughts

This vegan banana bread is not only healthy but also incredibly easy to make! Its moist texture and delightful flavor make it perfect as a snack or breakfast option. Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins to suit your taste buds!