Introduction
If you’re on the lookout for a delightful and nourishing treat, this Vegan Banana Tea Bread is just what you need! Bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and enriched with wholesome ingredients, this bread makes for the perfect companion to your afternoon tea or morning coffee. The aromatic notes of cinnamon and the richness of coconut oil create a wonderfully comforting aroma as it bakes, inviting everyone in the house to gather around. Plus, it’s totally plant-based, so you can indulge without any guilt!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup raisins or chocolate chips (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 70 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is thoroughly blended.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined, taking care not to overmix—this helps to keep your bread fluffy!
- If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts or pecans, along with raisins or chocolate chips, adding a delightful crunch and flavor burst to your loaf.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula, ensuring an even bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and inviting!
- Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. This ensures maximum sweetness and moisture! Feel free to get creative with additional mix-ins like shredded coconut or dried fruits. If you prefer a rich chocolate flavor, substituting the raisins for chocolate chips can be a heavenly twist.
Cooking Techniques
Mixing the dry ingredients separately helps distribute the baking soda and spices more evenly, which is key for achieving a perfect rise. Also, remember that overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so mix just until combined. Keeping a close eye on your loaf towards the end of the baking time will ensure it doesn’t overbake, leaving you with that wonderfully moist interior.
FAQ
Can I freeze the banana bread?
Absolutely! Once the bread is completely cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Simply thaw at room temperature before enjoying.
Can I substitute the coconut oil?
Yes! You can use any vegetable oil or even apple sauce for a lower-fat version. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.
Conclusion
This Vegan Banana Tea Bread is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm hug in loaf form! It’s simple to make, uses ingredients you probably already have on hand, and is sure to impress family and friends alike. Perfect as a snack or a breakfast item, it’s an excellent way to make use of those lingering ripe bananas. Bake a loaf today and enjoy the heartwarming aroma that will surely fill your kitchen!