Classic Vegan Banana Bread with a Nutty Twist

Ah, a classic vegan banana bread with a nutty twist—sounds delicious! The best part about banana bread is how it’s both cozy and versatile. You get that soft, slightly sweet bread with the added crunch and depth from the nuts. Here’s a simple recipe that highlights the banana flavor, but with a fun, nutty kick!

Classic Vegan Banana Bread with a Nutty Twist

Ingredients:

• 2-3 ripe bananas (the riper, the better for sweetness!)
• 1/4 cup coconut oil (or any neutral oil like vegetable or canola oil)
• 1/4 cup maple syrup (or agave syrup)
• 1/4 cup almond milk (or any non-dairy milk)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 cups whole wheat flour (or all-purpose flour for a lighter texture)
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (optional, but really adds to the warmth)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or a mix—toast them for extra flavor)
• 1/4 cup shredded coconut (optional, for added texture)
• 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (optional, for a little indulgence)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan (9×5 inches) or line it with parchment paper.

2. Mash the bananas:
   In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. A few small chunks are totally fine for texture!

3. Mix wet ingredients:
   Add the melted coconut oil, maple syrup, almond milk, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Stir everything together until combined.

4. Combine dry ingredients:
   In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

5. Mix wet and dry ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined—don’t overmix! The batter should be thick and slightly lumpy.

6. Add nuts and extras:
   Gently fold in your chopped nuts, shredded coconut, and chocolate chips (if using). This adds that lovely nutty twist and texture!

7. Pour and bake:
   Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean (a few crumbs are fine, but no wet batter).

8. Cool and serve:
   Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

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Tips & Variations:

• Nut butter: For even more richness, try adding 2 tbsp of almond butter or peanut butter to the wet ingredients for a creamy texture.
• Nut variations: Try mixing in some chopped almonds, hazelnuts, or cashews. Each nut brings its own unique flavor!
• Extra spices: If you like a little extra warmth, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the dry ingredients.
• Frozen bananas: If you don’t have ripe bananas on hand, you can use frozen ones. Just thaw them and drain the excess moisture before mashing.

This banana bread is so easy to make and perfect for a breakfast snack, afternoon tea, or even a dessert treat. Enjoy the cozy vibes and nutty crunch with each bite!