Name: Maple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 4 very ripe bananas, mashed (Ensure they have brown spots for extra sweetness.); 3 cups organic all-purpose flour (See Notes!); ½ cup pure maple syrup; 2 teaspoons baking powder; ½ teaspoon baking soda; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch sea salt; ½ - ¾ cup almond milk (You can use your favorite plant-based milk.); 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (This creates a dairy-free buttermilk.); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ cup coconut oil, melted; ½ - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (Ensure that it's vegan-friendly.)

Vegan Maple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread baked and sliced on a wooden board

Why Make This Recipe

Maple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a delightful treat that everyone will love. This bread is soft, moist, and filled with sweet chocolate chips. Plus, it is vegan, which means it's made without any animal products. Using very ripe bananas adds natural sweetness, helping you to cut down on added sugars. The use of maple syrup gives it a rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the chocolate. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is sure to please.

Making homemade banana bread is not only fun but also a great way to use up leftover bananas. You can easily share it with family and friends or keep it all to yourself!

How to Make Maple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Ingredients:

4 very ripe bananas, mashed
3 cups organic all-purpose flour (See Notes!)
½ cup pure maple syrup
2 teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of sea salt
½ - ¾ cup almond milk (You can use your favorite plant-based milk)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ cup coconut oil, melted
½ - 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips or chopped chocolate (Ensure that it's vegan-friendly)

Directions:

Make the Dairy-Free 'Buttermilk':

In a small bowl, combine the almond milk and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes. This mixture will create a dairy-free buttermilk that helps make the bread fluffy.

To Make the Bread:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Mix in the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract.
Now, add the dairy-free buttermilk (the almond milk mixture) to the bowl and stir well until everything is combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Mix just until everything is combined. Be careful not to over mix.
Fold in the chocolate chips, making sure they're evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter into a lightly greased loaf pan. Smooth the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Top the Bread:

If you like, you can sprinkle a few extra chocolate chips on top before baking for a nice look.

How to Serve Maple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve slices warm or at room temperature. Spread a little nut butter on it or enjoy it as is! It also pairs well with a cup of coffee or tea.

How to Store Maple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to store it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze slices of banana bread. Wrap them in plastic and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. To serve, let them thaw at room temperature.

Tips to Make Maple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Make sure your bananas are very ripe, with brown spots. This adds extra sweetness and flavor.
Avoid overmixing the batter. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients.
You can swap in other plant-based milk if you prefer; any will work.
Feel free to add nuts or dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.

Variation

You can experiment with different flavors. For example, add a teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla for a nutty twist. You can also replace the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate or leave it out entirely for a simple banana bread.

FAQs

1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. You might need to add a little more liquid.

2. How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?
Check with a toothpick. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.

3. Can I use less sugar in this recipe?
You can reduce the amount of maple syrup, but keep in mind that it will affect the sweetness and moisture of the bread.

Conclusion

Maple Chocolate Chip Banana Bread is a simple and tasty recipe that anyone can make at home. It's a great way to use ripe bananas while creating a delicious vegan dessert. With its warm spices and chocolate, it's sure to be a hit with everyone. Enjoy baking and sharing this wonderful banana bread!