SafePlates

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup almond milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• Optional: 1/2 cup chopped nuts or dairy-free dark chocolate chips

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas with the melted coconut oil. Stir in the maple syrup, almond milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. Add the baking soda, salt, and cinnamon to the banana mixture and mix thoroughly.
4. Gradually add the flour to the wet ingredients, stirring until the mixture is just combined. Be careful not to overmix to avoid developing the gluten, which can make the bread dense.
5. If using, fold in the nuts or chocolate chips.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tip

This cooling step helps the bread set and improves its texture, making it easier to slice without crumbling.