How to make Vegan Banana Bread
Deliciously moist, this vegan banana bread is a simple recipe, ready in less than 30 minutes. Ripe bananas lend their natural sweetness, while grated carrots add a vibrant touch.
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The cinnamon and crunchy pecans add depth and texture, creating a symphony of flavours in every bite. Made with plant-based ingredients, this vegan treat is a guilt-free indulgence that will satisfy your cravings.
Optionally topped with a blend of vegan cream cheese, yoghurt, maple syrup, and cinnamon, this carrot cake banana bread is a true delight for vegans and non-vegans alike. So, enjoy a slice of this moist and flavorful bread, perfect for breakfast, snack time, or any moment you desire.
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Are you passionate about plant-based treats and eager to try out something new? Then this vegan banana bread recipe is just for you!
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Why this recipe works
You’ll fall in love with this vegan banana bread and you’ll make it again and again. This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans or those looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet. Perfectly moist and tender, this cake is very simple to make and can be easily mastered, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labour without the hassle.
Ingredients to make Vegan Banana Bread
- Banana: Ripe bananas are used in this recipe for their natural sweetness. The ripeness adds flavour and moisture to the banana bread.
- Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that enhances the overall sweetness of the bread.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is the chosen fat in this vegan recipe. It contributes to the bread’s moist texture and adds a subtle coconut flavour.
- Self-Raising Flour: Self-raising flour contains baking powder, which helps the bread rise. It simplifies the baking process by eliminating the need to add a separate leavening agent.
- Carrots: Grated carrots add sweetness, moisture, and vibrant orange colour to the bread.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon brings warmth and depth of flavour to the bread. It complements the sweetness of the bananas and carrots.
- Pecans: Pecans provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavour.
Substitutions
- Banana: Substitute with unsweetened applesauce, mashed pumpkin, or mashed sweet potato, around 500 grams or 2 cups.
- Maple Syrup: Replace with agave nectar, date syrup, or coconut nectar.
- Coconut Oil: Swap with vegetable oil, melted vegan butter, or applesauce.
- Self-Raising Flour: Make your own by adding baking powder and salt to all-purpose flour. For 1 cup of self-raising flour, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Carrots: Grated zucchini or sweet potato can be a great substitute for carrots.
- Cinnamon: Nutmeg or allspice can be used as an alternative or a combination of both.
- Pecans: Substitute with walnuts, almonds, or chopped macadamia nuts, depending on your preference or any nut allergies.
Variations
If you’re looking to explore variations of vegan carrot cake banana bread, here are a few ideas to consider:
Spiced vegan banana bread
- Enrich with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Add about 1 teaspoon of each to the batter for a cosy and aromatic twist.
Citrus Infusion
- Give your carrot cake banana bread a tangy twist by incorporating some citrus zest. Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing burst of flavour.
How to make vegan banana bread
The beauty of this recipe is that it can be enjoyed any time you crave the flavours of carrot cake and banana bread combined. So, feel free to savour it whenever it brings you joy!
Step 1: Add wet ingredients to a bowl and mix until smooth.
Step 2: Incorporate dry ingredients into the batter.
Step 3: Transfer the batter into a loaf pan, lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake in a preheated oven at 356°F (180°C) for 50-60 minutes.
Step 5: Make the cheese topping and spread it out on the banana bread, then sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
Step 6: Cut the cake into slices and enjoy with coffee or tea.
A full list of ingredients and instructions can be found in the recipe card below.
Pro Tips
Use Ripe Bananas: First, choose very ripe bananas with brown spots. This choice sweetens your banana bread and enhances its flavor!
Don’t Overmix: Next, mix the wet and dry ingredients gently, stirring only until everything comes together. Overmixing makes the bread heavy, so keep it light for a fluffy texture.
Add Your Favorite Ingredients: Finally, get creative by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. Just avoid adding too much, as it can change how the bread bakes and affect its moisture. The right amount will elevate your loaf to the next level!
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store banana bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 2-3 days. If it’s wrapped in plastic wrap or foil, it can stay fresh longer.
- Refrigeration: If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate the banana bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container for up to a week. Note that refrigeration may slightly change the texture.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze banana bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminium foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature before enjoying.
Be sure to slice the bread before freezing for easy portioning!
Recipe FAQs
The best kind of drinks that go well with this vegan banana bread
When it comes to pairing beverages with vegan banana bread, there are a few options that can complement its flavours nicely. Here are some suggestions:
- Hot Chai Latte: The warm, aromatic spices in chai, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, can beautifully enhance the flavours of the cake.
- Iced Matcha Latte: The earthy and slightly sweet notes of matcha can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread.
- Cold Brew Coffee: If you enjoy coffee, a smooth and rich cold brew can be a great choice. Its bold flavour can complement the hearty and slightly spiced nature of the bread.
- Herbal Tea: Opt for a light and soothing herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint. These can provide a calming accompaniment to the flavours of the cake.
- Freshly Squeezed Lemonade: Since you mentioned a love for lemon cake, why not extend that citrusy goodness with a glass of refreshing lemonade? The tanginess can add a delightful contrast to the sweet and spiced bread.
Taste preferences vary, so feel free to explore and find the beverage that resonates best with your palate.
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Vegan Banana Bread
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater
- Loaf Pan
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
- 4 large very ripe bananas mashed
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- ⅓ cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
- 2 ¼ cups self-raising flour or 2 1/4 cups plain flour mixed with 3 tsp baking powder and 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large carrots grated
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Optional Topping:
- 3 tbsp vegan cream cheese or Philadelphia cream cheese
- 2 tbsp vegan vanilla yogurt or plain or 2 tbsp crème fraîche
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 356°F (180°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil or olive oil.4 large very ripe bananas, 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
- Fold in the grated carrots, cinnamon, and chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.2 large carrots, 2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Add the self-raising flour (or plain flour mixed with baking powder and salt) to the bowl and stir until well combined.2 1/4 cups self-raising flour
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the optional topping, in a small bowl, combine the vegan cream cheese (or Philadelphia cream cheese), vegan vanilla yogurt (or plain yogurt or crème fraîche), maple syrup, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and well combined.3 tbsp vegan cream cheese or Philadelphia cream cheese, 2 tbsp vegan vanilla yogurt, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Once the carrot cake banana bread has cooled, drizzle the topping over the loaf or spread it evenly on top. Drop some extra chopped pecans.
- Slice and serve the carrot cake banana bread, and enjoy!
- Note: This recipe can be made vegan by using vegan cream cheese, vegan yogurt, and maple syrup. Alternatively, you can use regular cream cheese, yogurt and honey if you prefer non-vegan options.
