Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread – Moist & Easy Recipe

Is there anything cozier than the smell of banana bread wafting through your home? The warm, sweet aroma evokes fond memories of baking with loved ones, or perhaps huddling on a rainy weekend with a slice and a cup of herbal tea. I remember the first time I tried to make banana bread; let’s just say it involved a bit of chaos, a fair amount of flour on the countertops, and a few questionable decisions about how ripe those bananas should be. But in the end, the reward was undeniably worth it. Each bite was a delicious reminder of why I love creating in the kitchen—and why I know you will too!

If you’re looking to whip up something simple yet scrumptious, I promise this Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread recipe is your ticket. It’s stress-free and incredibly satisfying to make, even if you’re stepping into the baking world for the very first time. Are your bananas turning brown on the counter? Got a craving for something sweet? Let’s turn those ripe bananas into a delightful loaf that will have your family and friends asking for seconds.

Why I Love This Recipe of Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

What makes this Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread special to me is the sense of accomplishment I feel every time I bake it. It’s one of those recipes that, no matter how many times I make it, always brings a smile to my face. The combination of sweet bananas and rich chocolate chips feels like the ultimate treat, yet it’s satisfying in a way that all great comfort food should be.

For beginner cooks, this recipe is incredibly forgiving. The ingredients are straightforward, and the method is simple, so even if you’re unsure about your mixing skills, this loaf will turn out beautifully. Plus, the use of non-dairy ingredients makes it a great option for those with dietary restrictions. It’s wholesome, cozy, and perfect for any time of day, whether paired with your morning coffee or enjoyed as a late-night snack.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

For step-by-step ideas and baking tips, visit my main Vegan Banana Bread guide here.

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Creating this delicious loaf requires mostly pantry staples, making it simple to gather. Here’s a detailed look at each component, so you know what you need before diving in.

Essentials

1. All Purpose Flour (2 cups / 250g): This is your base ingredient, providing the structure to hold everything together. Feel free to use whole wheat flour or a gluten-free blend if you prefer.

2. White Granulated Sugar (1/2 cup / 100g): This sugar gives a nice sweetness; however, if you’re watching your sugar intake, coconut sugar can be a great alternative.

3. Light Brown Sugar (1/2 cup / 100g): This adds a touch of caramel flavor and moisture to the bread. If you only have granulated sugar, you can use that instead, though the flavor will change slightly.

4. Baking Powder (3 teaspoons): This is your leavening agent, helping the bread rise. Make sure it’s fresh for the best results.

5. Salt (1/2 teaspoon): A small but crucial ingredient that enhances all the flavors in the bread.

6. Ground Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): This adds warmth and depth to the flavors, making every bite feel like a hug.

7. Nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A pinch of nutmeg offers a slightly sweet and nutty flavor that beautifully complements the bananas.

8. Mashed Ripe Banana (1 1/3 cups / 300g peeled weight): The star of our recipe! The riper the bananas, the better; they should be well-spotted for the sweetest flavor.

9. Soy Milk (1/2 cup / 120ml): Any non-dairy milk will do, but I find soy milk works best for this recipe in terms of creaminess and flavor.

10. Coconut Oil (3 tablespoons / 45g): This provides richness and moisture. If you’re not a fan of coconut oil, feel free to use vegetable oil or unsweetened applesauce for a lighter option.

11. Flax Egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons hot water): This acts as a binder, replacing eggs and giving the bread a perfect texture. Just mix the ingredients and let it sit until thickened.

12. Vegan Chocolate Chips (1 cup / 175g): Because who could say no to chocolate? I always recommend using dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor and added health benefits. You can also sprinkle more on top right before baking for extra melty goodness!

Optional Add-Ons

• Chopped Nuts: Walnuts or pecans can be added for a delightful crunch.
• Dried Fruits: Consider adding raisins or cranberries for variations in texture and flavor.
• Seeds: Flaxseeds, chia seeds, or even sunflower seeds can reignite the bread with wholesome nutrients.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

• Flax Egg: If you’re in a hurry, you can skip making the flax egg, but it does help hold the bread together. If you don’t have flaxseed, unsweetened applesauce or 1/4 cup of silken tofu blended can work as a substitute.
• Flours: If you want to make this gluten-free, look for a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum.

How to Make Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Step-by-Step

Now that we’ve gathered our ingredients, let’s dive into the process! Here’s a detailed guide to making your Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread, step by step.

Step 1: Prepare for Baking

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan and lightly spray it with non-stick spray. To ensure the bread releases easily, cut out a piece of parchment paper to line the bottom. This little effort will go a long way when it’s time for slicing!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, white granulated sugar, light brown sugar, baking powder, salt, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mixing these dry ingredients first ensures that they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter, creating the perfect texture in your finished loaf.

Step 3: Blend the Wet Ingredients

Next, measure out your bananas. Peel the bananas and add them to your blender jug with the soy milk and melted coconut oil. Blend until just combined; you want a slightly chunky texture to keep some bites interesting!

Step 4: Create Your Flax Egg

While your bananas are blending, prepare your flax egg. Simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of hot water in a small bowl. Let it sit for about a minute until it thickens into a gloopy consistency. This will act as the perfect binder for your banana bread.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the blended banana mix into the bowl containing your dry ingredients. Add the flax egg and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! You want a thick batter, but some lumps are perfectly okay. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and we want it light and fluffy!

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the vegan chocolate chips. This is where the magic happens! You’ll see pockets of chocolate just waiting to melt while baking. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, reserve a few chocolate chips to sprinkle on top.

Step 7: Transfer to Loaf Pan

Pour the thick batter into your prepared loaf pan and use a spatula to spread it out evenly. Sprinkle additional chocolate chips on top for that irresistible melty factor.

Step 8: Bake

Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Keep a close eye on it during the last 10 minutes. You want a toothpick inserted into the center to come out clean—melted chocolate is okay, but wet batter isn’t! The aroma drifting from your oven will be worth the wait.

Step 9: Cooling

Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After that, carefully transfer it to a wire cooling rack to cool completely. This step is crucial to ensure it maintains the right texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately

Baking is a science, and accuracy matters. Use a kitchen scale if you have one, and always level off your ingredients for the best results!

Overmixing the Batter

This is a common pitfall for many beginning bakers. When mixing dry and wet ingredients, be gentle. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf instead of a fluffy one.

Skipping the Cooling Step

It might be tempting to slice into that warm loaf right away, but give it time to cool. This will help the structure solidify and make slicing much easier!

Not Testing for Doneness

Every oven is a bit different, so keep an eye on your bread as it bakes. If you stick a toothpick in and it comes out wet, it needs more time. If it’s just melted chocolate on the stick, you’re good to go!

Serving Suggestions for Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Now that your Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread has made its triumphant debut, let’s talk about how to serve it!

Enjoy It Fresh

There’s nothing quite like a fresh slice straight from the loaf. I find that it’s best enjoyed on its own, perhaps with a smear of peanut butter or almond butter for a protein-packed snack.

Toasted with Toppings

For a delightful twist, try toasting your slices. A little coconut butter or your favorite nut spread on top adds an extra rich layer of flavor. You could even add banana slices for a double banana treat!

Pairing with Beverages

This banana bread pairs beautifully with a warm cup of tea or coffee. The flavor contrast of the bread with a slightly bitter drink enhances the sweetness of the bread and makes for a perfect afternoon treat.

Whipped Coconut Cream

Feeling extra indulgent? Top your slice with whipped coconut cream—absolutely heavenly! It adds a light fluffiness that complements the dense bread.

Nutritional Values of Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

To help you feel good about indulging, let’s break down some of the nutritional benefits this Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread offers.

Calories

On average, one slice (about 1/10th of the loaf) contains around 210 calories, depending on the size of the slice and the specific brands of ingredients used.

Healthy Fats

With coconut oil and flaxseed, this loaf provides healthy fats that are beneficial for heart health and can keep you feeling satisfied longer.

Natural Sugars

The primary sweetness comes from ripe bananas and sugars that contribute nutrients like potassium, and fiber, while still satisfying your sweet tooth without excessive refined sugar.

Vitamins and Minerals

Bananas are packed with potassium, vitamin C, and B6, while flaxseed adds omega-3 fatty acids and additional fiber. With added chocolate chips, you also get antioxidants, making this loaf a guilt-free treat!

Conclusion & Next Steps

Baking Vegan Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is more than just a fun activity in the kitchen; it’s an experience that fills your home with warmth and pride. You’ve learned that this recipe is easier than it looks, that you can achieve a deliciously fluffy loaf without stress, and with a few simple ingredient swaps, it can fit perfectly into your health-conscious lifestyle.

So why not gather these ingredients and get started? I encourage you to customize it to your taste—add nuts, spices, or even a hint of orange zest for a fresh twist. This cozy, classic banana bread is sure to become a staple in your home.

Want to share your experience? I would love to hear how yours turned out, plus any variations you tried. Let’s connect over our love for baking vegan goodies!

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