VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

A classic VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY) recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves a delicious snack or breakfast option. This recipe features perfectly moist banana bread, ideal for any occasion, from cozy mornings to potlucks. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll have a delightful treat that everyone can enjoy. Plus, it’s packed with the goodness of ripe bananas, making it both nutritious and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome spelt flour and natural sweeteners, this bread is a guilt-free indulgence.
• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can whip up this banana bread in no time, perfect for busy days.
• Customizable: Add nuts or chocolate chips according to your preference, making it versatile for everyone’s taste.
• Moist and Flavorful: The overripe bananas ensure that each slice is packed with rich banana flavor and moisture.
• Great for Meal Prep: This banana bread stores well, so you can make it ahead of time for snacks or breakfast throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare this vegan banana bread, you’ll need some essential tools to ensure everything goes smoothly in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Loaf pan
• Measuring cups
• Whisk or fork
• Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without spilling.
• Loaf pan: Ensures the banana bread bakes evenly and holds its shape.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the perfect texture.
• Spatula: Useful for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are mixed properly.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 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

For the Wet Ingredients

• 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

For Extra Flavor and Texture

• 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. Grease your loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl:
* Mash 3 to 4 bananas until smooth.
* Add in the oil or applesauce along with the vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl:
* Combine spelt flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix well.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients:
* Stir gently until just combined; don’t overmix. The batter should be slightly thick with a few lumps remaining.
* If the batter seems too thick, add almond milk as needed.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your greased loaf pan:
* Bake for about 50 minutes to an hour. Ovens may vary; check doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center—it should come out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Store

Once baked:
* Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before slicing.
* Store covered on the counter for up to three days or refrigerate for up to one week. You can also freeze it for up to two months—thaw overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy!

How to Serve VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY) is a versatile treat that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, there are plenty of delicious serving ideas.

Toasted with Nut Butter

• Toast slices and spread almond or peanut butter on top for a protein-packed breakfast.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Add sliced strawberries, blueberries, or bananas on top for extra flavor and nutrition.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• For a sweet twist, drizzle pure maple syrup over warm banana bread slices.

Served as a Dessert

• Pair the banana bread with a scoop of vegan ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.

With a Cup of Tea or Coffee

• Enjoy your banana bread alongside your favorite tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon snack.

Sliced and Freezed

• Slice the loaf and freeze individual pieces for quick snacks later on; just toast them when you’re ready to eat!

How to Perfect VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

Achieving the perfect VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY) requires some attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to enhance your baking experience.

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• Check Your Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary significantly; use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures.
• Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips: These add texture and richness; consider walnuts, pecans, or dark chocolate chips.
• Let It Cool Before Slicing: Allowing the bread to cool helps maintain its structure and flavor.
• Store Properly: Keep it covered at room temperature or refrigerate for freshness; freezing is also an option for long-term storage.

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

Pairing side dishes with VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY) can elevate your meal. Here are some great options that complement its flavors well.

1. Chia Seed Pudding: A light and nutritious option that adds creaminess and boosts fiber content.
2. Fruit Salad: A medley of seasonal fruits provides freshness and balances sweetness.
3. Coconut Yogurt: A dairy-free yogurt option that adds creaminess and a hint of tropical flavor.
4. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with granola, nuts, or seeds.
5. Granola Bar: For an extra crunch, serve alongside homemade or store-bought granola bars.
6. Vegan Cream Cheese Spread: A tangy spread that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the banana bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY) can be simple, but some common mistakes can hinder your results. Here are key pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using unripe bananas: Bananas should be very ripe for sweetness and moisture. Look for brown spots on the skin to ensure optimal flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can result in dense bread. Stir gently until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Skipping the toothpick test: Always check doneness with a toothpick in the center. If it comes out wet, bake it a bit longer.
• Not adjusting for flour type: Different flours absorb moisture differently. If using whole grain or gluten-free flour, you may need to add extra liquid like almond milk.
• Ignoring cooling time: Letting the bread cool for at least 10 minutes before slicing prevents it from becoming gummy and makes for cleaner slices.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Keep in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• It will last up to 1 week when stored properly.

Freezing VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

• Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY)

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and wrap in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 10-15 second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over medium-low heat for about 2-3 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about making VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY).

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes, you can substitute spelt flour with whole wheat or a gluten-free blend. Adjust liquid as needed based on the flour’s consistency.

How ripe should my bananas be?

Use very ripe bananas that have brown spots. They provide natural sweetness and moisture to your bread.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to add walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips based on your preference for extra flavor and texture.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

Perform the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!

How long does this vegan banana bread last?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it lasts up to one week in the refrigerator and up to two months in the freezer.

Final Thoughts

This VEGAN BANANA BREAD (HEALTHY + EASY) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding different nuts or swapping ingredients based on what you have available. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for breakfast or a tasty snack!