Why Make This Recipe
Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is not just a delightful treat; it’s also a healthy option for everyone, including those who follow a plant-based diet. This recipe is perfect for using up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. The combination of bananas and applesauce creates a moist bread that is naturally sweetened, making it a great alternative to traditional banana bread which often contains eggs and dairy. With the addition of vegan chocolate chips, this bread boasts an irresistible sweetness with every bite. Whether you enjoy it as a quick breakfast, a hearty snack, or a dessert, this banana bread is sure to satisfy your cravings without the extra calories.
How to Make Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Making Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is simple and requires minimal ingredients. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious loaf in no time!
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips
Directions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures your bread bakes evenly and rises properly.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas with a fork or a potato masher until they are smooth. It’s okay to leave a few small lumps for texture.
- Mix in the applesauce, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until everything is well combined. Make sure the sugar is dissolved into the mixture.
- In another bowl, mix the whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt. This helps to distribute the baking soda evenly in the flour.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined. Avoid over-mixing, as this can make the bread dense.
- Fold in the vegan chocolate chips gently. This will ensure they are evenly distributed without breaking them apart.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top if needed.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, you can cover it with a piece of foil.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help avoid sogginess.
How to Serve Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
You can serve Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread in various ways. It’s delightful on its own, but you can also spread a little vegan butter or nut butter on top for added creaminess. Another tasty option is to serve it warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream for a comforting dessert. You can slice it thick for a hearty breakfast or cut it into smaller pieces for an afternoon snack. Either way, this bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!
How to Store Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
If you have leftovers (which may be unlikely!), store your Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to store it even longer, slice the bread and freeze it. When you are ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature or heat a slice in the microwave for a few seconds.
Tips to Make Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Choose Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter your bread will be. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots; they will provide the best flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
- Add Nuts: If you like, feel free to add chopped nuts for extra crunch. Walnuts or pecans work great in this recipe.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary in temperature, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it with foil, and check for doneness a few minutes early.
Variation
You can easily switch up this recipe by adding different mix-ins. For example, try adding some dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist. If you love spices, consider adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm flavor. Another fun variation is to drizzle some nut butter on top before baking or swirls of vegan chocolate spread for added decadence.
FAQs
Can I use regular flour instead of whole wheat flour?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. However, using whole wheat flour will give your banana bread more fiber and a richer flavor.
How do I know when my banana bread is done baking?
The best way to check for doneness is to insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bread is ready. If it comes out wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute gluten-free flour blends for the whole wheat flour. Make sure the blend you choose has a good balance of flours and starches for the best results.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet banana bread. However, keep in mind that sugar not only adds sweetness but also moisture and helps with texture, so it may be slightly different.
Is it okay to use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing them for the recipe.
By following these simple steps and tips, you can make your very own Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread. Enjoy every bite of this delicious, healthy treat!
Print
Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Total Time: 70 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A delightful and healthy vegan banana bread made with ripe bananas and applesauce, sweetened naturally and enriched with vegan chocolate chips.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 cup applesauce
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth, leaving some small lumps.
- Mix in the applesauce, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until combined.
- In another bowl, combine whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
- Fold in the vegan chocolate chips gently.
- Pour the batter into a greased loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Notes
Serve with vegan butter or nut butter. Can be enjoyed warm with vegan ice cream for dessert.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: vegan, banana bread, chocolate chip, healthy dessert, plant-based