Introduction
Is there anything more cozy than the warm scent of banana bread wafting through your kitchen? This Vegan Banana Tea Bread not only fills your home with a delightful aroma but also offers a rich and moist texture that’s simply irresistible. It’s the perfect companion for your afternoon tea, a hearty breakfast, or an indulgent snack any time of day. With wholesome ingredients and a hint of sweetness, this recipe is a guilt-free treat you can savor.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s ready for that beautiful batter.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract. Mix until everything is well blended and eager to come together.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. This blend will add depth and flavor to your bread.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Remember, a good banana bread loves a little TLC, so avoid overmixing!
- If you’re feeling a tad adventurous, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans and the dark chocolate chips for some extra texture and indulgence.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top to ensure it bakes evenly.
- Pop it in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few crumbs sticking to it—sweet perfection!
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This patience will pay off in flavor!
Notes or Tips
If you don’t have whole wheat flour on hand, feel free to substitute with all-purpose flour for a lighter texture. Additionally, you can adjust the sweetness by reducing or increasing the amount of maple syrup based on your personal preference. For a fun twist, consider adding a dash of nutmeg along with the cinnamon!
Cooking Techniques
One great technique when baking is to ensure your ingredients are at room temperature; this will help your batter come together more smoothly and create that perfectly moist texture. Also, be sure to mash the bananas well—chunky bits can lead to uneven baking and texture.
FAQ
Can I freeze this banana bread?
Absolutely! Once cooled, slice the bread and wrap it well in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep for up to 3 months. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge or toast slices directly from the freezer for a quick treat!
Can I use other fruits?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like applesauce or even shredded zucchini for a unique twist on this classic recipe.
Conclusion
There you have it—an easy, delightful Vegan Banana Tea Bread that is sure to satisfy your cravings while being gentle on your waistline. Whether it’s for a special occasion, a cozy night in, or just a lovely breakfast treat, this recipe is bound to become a treasured favorite in your home. So, gather your ingredients and give it a whirl; your taste buds will thank you!