Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a classic treat that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet snack. This recipe is easy to follow, even for beginner bakers, and results in a loaf that’s moist, flavorful, and packed with chocolatey goodness.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegan chocolate chip banana bread is:
- Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a warm loaf of banana bread ready to enjoy in no time.
- Perfectly moist: The combination of mashed bananas and plant-based milk creates a tender and moist crumb.
- Packed with flavor: Ripe bananas, cinnamon, and vanilla extract lend a warm and comforting flavor that’s enhanced by the richness of the chocolate chips.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to create your own unique twist.
Vegan chocolate chip banana bread ingredients laid out on a table
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- 1/2 cup plant-based milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup vegan chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Whisk the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Cream the sugars and wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, oil, and applesauce until light and fluffy.
- Add the bananas, milk, and vanilla: Mix in the mashed bananas, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the chocolate chips: Gently fold in the chocolate chips until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
Pouring vegan banana bread batter into a loaf pan
- Bake: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely.
Freshly baked vegan chocolate chip banana bread on a cooling rack
Tips for the Best Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
- Use overripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a tough bread.
- Test for doneness early: Start checking for doneness at the 50-minute mark to avoid overbaking.
- Let it cool completely: This allows the bread to set and prevents it from crumbling when sliced.
Chef’s Tip from Maya Robinson: “For an extra chocolatey treat, swirl a tablespoon of vegan Nutella into the batter before baking.”
Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Variations
- Nutty Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or your favorite nuts to the batter for added crunch and flavor.
- Double Chocolate Banana Bread: Mix in 1/4 cup of unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a richer chocolate flavor.
- Cranberry Orange Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries and the zest of one orange to the batter for a bright and festive twist.
A slice of vegan chocolate chip banana bread on a plate
Conclusion
This vegan chocolate chip banana bread is a delicious and satisfying treat that everyone can enjoy. It’s easy to make, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. So, grab your ripe bananas and get baking!
FAQ
1. Can I use a different type of flour?
While all-purpose flour is recommended, you can experiment with other flours like whole wheat flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour. Keep in mind that the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
2. Can I make this recipe without oil?
Yes, you can substitute the oil with an equal amount of unsweetened applesauce or melted vegan butter.
3. How do I store vegan chocolate chip banana bread?
Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.
4. Can I freeze the batter?
Yes, you can freeze the batter in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
5. Can I use a different type of plant-based milk?
Absolutely! Any type of plant-based milk, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk, will work well in this recipe.
