Decadent Vegan Banana Bread
Indulge in the delightful aroma and the rich, moist texture of this Decadent Vegan Banana Bread. This recipe transforms ripe bananas into a luscious bread that’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert. Even if you’re not vegan, this banana bread will impress your taste buds and have everyone asking for seconds. With a perfect blend of spices and sweetness, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Bonus: it’s easy to whip up and takes just a little over an hour to bake. Serve warm with a spread of your choice, or enjoy it plain. Your friends and family won’t believe it’s vegan!
12
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
brown sugar
1/2 cup (packed)
white sugar
1/2 cup (granulated)
margarine
1/2 cup (at room temperature)
bananas
3 (mashed well)
flour
2 cups (all-purpose)
baking soda
1/2 teaspoon (sifted)
soy milk
1/4 cup (mixed with 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar)
vanilla extract
1 teaspoon
cinnamon
1 teaspoon
allspice
1/4 teaspoon
salt
1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x4-inch bread pan by spraying it with non-stick cooking spray.
2
In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and allspice, ensuring all dry ingredients are well combined.
3
In another bowl, cream together the margarine, brown sugar, and white sugar until light and fluffy.
4
Add the mashed bananas, soy milk mixed with apple cider vinegar, and vanilla extract to the sugar mixture. Mix well until combined.
5
Carefully fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, ensuring not to over-mix. The batter should be well combined but still slightly lumpy.
6
Pour the batter into the prepared bread pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Generously sprinkle brown sugar over the top for an added caramelized crust.
7
Bake in the preheated oven for 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid over-baking.
8
Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this banana bread recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is 100% vegan, utilizing margarine and soy milk instead of butter and dairy.
How many bananas are required?
You will need 3 bananas, which should be mashed well before being added to the mixture.
What is the recommended oven temperature?
Preheat your oven to 350%F (175%C) for the best results.
What size pan is needed for this recipe?
This recipe is designed for an 8x4-inch bread pan.
How long does the banana bread take to bake?
The baking time is typically between 60 to 70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Can I use a different type of milk?
Yes, while soy milk is suggested, you can use other plant-based milks like almond or oat milk mixed with the apple cider vinegar.
Why is apple cider vinegar added to the soy milk?
Mixing apple cider vinegar with soy milk creates a vegan buttermilk alternative that helps the bread rise and stay moist.
What spices give this bread its flavor?
The recipe uses a blend of cinnamon and allspice for a warm, aromatic flavor profile.
Is the texture of this vegan bread moist?
Yes, the mashed bananas and margarine ensure a rich and moist texture.
Can I turn this recipe into muffins?
While designed for a loaf, you can bake the batter in a muffin tin, though you will need to reduce the baking time significantly.
How do I know if the bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean without wet batter, the bread is finished.
Should I sift the dry ingredients?
Yes, sifting the flour, baking soda, salt, and spices together ensures they are well combined and removes lumps.
Can I use coconut oil instead of margarine?
Yes, softened coconut oil can be a suitable vegan substitute for margarine in this recipe.
Can I add chocolate chips to this recipe?
Absolutely! Folding in vegan chocolate chips is a great way to add extra decadence.
How many servings does one loaf provide?
One loaf typically yields approximately 12 servings.
How should I prepare the bread pan?
Spray the 8x4-inch bread pan with non-stick cooking spray before pouring in the batter.
What is the benefit of sprinkling sugar on top before baking?
Sprinkling brown sugar on top before baking creates a delicious caramelized crust.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can substitute some or all of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, though it may result in a denser loaf.
Should the bananas be ripe?
Yes, ripe or overripe bananas provide the best sweetness and moisture for this recipe.
Can I freeze this banana bread?
Yes, once completely cooled, you can wrap the bread tightly and freeze it for later consumption.
How long should I let it cool after baking?
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Is this recipe beginner-friendly?
Yes, it is an easy recipe that takes just a little over an hour and uses standard pantry ingredients.
Can I use only white sugar?
While the recipe calls for both, you can use only white sugar, but you will miss the depth of flavor provided by the brown sugar.
What does it mean to cream the margarine and sugar?
It means mixing them together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well-combined.
Should the batter be perfectly smooth?
No, the batter should be well combined but it is normal for it to remain slightly lumpy.
Can I use baking powder instead of baking soda?
This recipe specifically calls for baking soda to react with the acid in the apple cider vinegar mixture for rising.
Is vanilla extract required?
It is highly recommended as it enhances the overall sweetness and aroma of the bread.
How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for a few days or in the refrigerator for longer freshness.
Can I add walnuts to the bread?
Yes, adding chopped walnuts or pecans provides a nice crunch and complements the banana flavor.
Is this bread suitable for breakfast?
Yes, it is perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or even a light dessert.