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–+ servings
Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread
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5 from 1 vote

Healthy Chocolate Banana Bread

This easy vegan banana bread recipe requires minimal preparation and simple ingredients, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Course Breakfast, Snack
Keyword Dairy Free, Gluten Free
Servings 3 Slices

Ingredients

Wet Ingredients

  • 3 pc ripe bananas
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 3 tbsp maple syrup or 3 medjool dates
  • 2 tbsp chia seeds soaked
  • 1/2 cup plant milk
  • 1/3 cup coconut oil melted
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla optional

Dry Ingredients

  • 1 cup buckwheat flour sub plain flour
  • 1 cup whole oats
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 cup cacao powder
  • 3 tbsp hemp seeds
  • Large handful of chopped walnuts sub almonds

Garnishing Ingredients

  • 1 pc banana sliced
  • 1 tbsp hemp seeds or walnuts (chopped)
  • Sprinkle of sugar

Instructions

  • Preheat the oven. Set it to 175°C, ensuring it's ready for baking the banana bread.
  • Mix dry ingredients. Combine the dry ingredients in a medium-sized bowl, mixing thoroughly with a wooden spoon to ensure an even distribution.
  • Puree wet ingredients. Blend the wet ingredients in a high-speed blender or food processor until smooth.
  • Combine wet and dry ingredients. Pour the wet mixture over the dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing for a light texture.
  • Add seeds and nuts. Stir them into the mixture carefully, ensuring it’s not over-mixed.
  • Top with banana. Place sliced bananas cut-side up and sprinkle with sugar for a sweet finish.
  • Bake and cool. Bake for 40-50 minutes, checking with a skewer to ensure it comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing, and enjoy a thick slice toasted with peanut butter and fresh berries.

Notes

Serving Suggestions and Topping Ideas

Enjoy a slice of this moist banana bread recipe with a dollop of dairy-free yogurt for breakfast, or pair it with a cup of herbal tea for a wholesome snack. For an indulgent dessert, top with vegan chocolate chips and a drizzle of maple syrup. Try these simple ideas to add extra flavour and make each slice even more enjoyable:
  • Peanut Butter and Berries: Top with creamy peanut butter and fresh berries for added flavour and nutrition.
  • Vegan Butter and fruit spread: Spread with your favourite plant-based butter and jam for a simple, tasty treat.
  • As a Toasted Snack: Toast a thick slice and serve with almond butter or tahini for a satisfying snack.
  • Dairy-Free Yoghurt: Pair a slice with dairy-free yoghurt for a wholesome breakfast or dessert.
  • Topped with Sliced Fruit: Enhance the bread with banana slices, strawberries, or your choice of seasonal fruit.

Expert Tips for Baking the Ultimate Chocolate Banana Bread

Ensure your chocolate banana bread turns out perfectly every time by following these helpful tips. From mixing techniques to storage advice, these pointers will guide you in creating a moist, fluffy, and delicious loaf that’s sure to impress.
  • Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavourful your banana bread will be. Overripe bananas are best for this recipe.
  • Mix wet and dry ingredients carefully: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix in one continuous circular motion. This helps retain the airy texture, making the bread lighter and fluffier.
  • Don’t open the oven door early: Resist the urge to open the oven door for the first 20 minutes. This is when the bread is forming its fluffy texture, and opening the door could cause it to sink.
  • Storage tips: Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, slice and freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Perfect for future snacks.
  • Don’t overmix: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of light and fluffy.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is this chocolate banana bread vegan and gluten-free? This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it suitable for vegans on a gluten-free diet.
  • Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, frozen ripe bananas work well. Thaw them before mashing to ensure proper consistency.
  • How do I know when the bread is done? Insert a skewer into the centre of the loaf; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
  • Can I make this into muffins? Yes, divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 175°C for 18-22 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.