SafePlates

Ingredients

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup maple syrup or agave syrup
• 1/4 cup plant-based milk (such as almond, soy, or oat milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour (plain, not self-raising)
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• Optional: 1/2 cup chocolate chips or fresh blueberries

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix the mashed bananas, melted coconut oil, maple syrup, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon. This step ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed throughout the flour, which helps in even rising of the bread.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful to mix gently to avoid developing the gluten in the flour, which can make the bread dense.
5. Gently fold in the chopped nuts and any additional optional ingredients like chocolate chips or blueberries, if using.
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. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Additionally, the bread should have a golden-brown crust and spring back when gently pressed.
8. Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial as it prevents the bread from crumbling when sliced.

Tip

Enjoy your delicious vegan banana bread as a breakfast treat or a sweet snack. For an extra touch, try spreading slices with vegan butter or vegan cream cheese.