Name: Vegan Sourdough Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1 cup sourdough starter; 3 large ripe bananas; 1 Tbsp ground flax seed; 3 Tbsp water; 2 Tbsp avocado oil or melted coconut oil; 1 tsp pure vanilla extract; 1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar; 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour or regular flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp sea salt; 2 tsp ground cinnamon; 3/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped

If you’re on the hunt for a delightful and wholesome treat that combines the tangy goodness of sourdough with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, look no further than this Vegan Sourdough Banana Bread. This recipe is not only easy to make but also provides a wonderful use for your sourdough starter. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delicious bread that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. Let’s dive into why this recipe deserves a spot in your baking rotation.

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

Vegan Sourdough Banana Bread is the perfect cozy treat, and it’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture while the sourdough starter adds a unique tang and enhances the texture. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up extra sourdough starter, reducing waste in your kitchen. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a spread, this banana bread is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 cup sourdough starter
3 large ripe bananas
1 Tbsp ground flax seed
3 Tbsp water
2 Tbsp avocado oil or melted coconut oil
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup coconut sugar or brown sugar
1 cup gluten-free all-purpose flour or regular flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp sea salt
2 tsp ground cinnamon
3/4 cup raw walnuts, chopped

Recommended Tools

Mixing bowls: For combining the ingredients.
Loaf pan: To bake your banana bread in.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
Whisk or fork: To mix the flaxseed and water, creating a vegan egg substitute.

Method: Vegan Sourdough Banana Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Flax Egg

In a small bowl, combine the ground flax seed and water. Stir well and let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens. This mixture will act as your binder in place of eggs.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Aim for a creamy consistency with minimal lumps for the best texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the thickened flax egg, avocado oil (or melted coconut oil), vanilla extract, and coconut sugar to the mashed bananas. Mix until everything is well combined.

Step 4: Incorporate the Sourdough Starter

Gently fold in the sourdough starter to the banana mixture, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose flour, baking soda, sea salt, and ground cinnamon.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix as this can lead to a dense bread.

Step 7: Fold in Walnuts

Lastly, fold in the chopped walnuts (reserve a few for topping if desired) to add a lovely crunch to your bread.

Step 8: Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with a little oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve, perhaps with a spread of Vegan Bechamel Sauce for a unique twist!

Seasonal Spins

Spiced Pumpkin Addition: Add 1/2 cup of pumpkin puree and an extra 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon for a fall-inspired loaf.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Stir in 1/2 cup of vegan chocolate chips for a sweet treat.
Nutty Banana Bread: Substitute walnuts with pecans or hazelnuts for a different flavor.

What Not to Do

Do not use unripe bananas; they won’t provide the sweetness or moisture needed.
Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can make the bread tough.
Don’t skip the cooling process; slicing too soon can lead to a mushy texture.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This Vegan Sourdough Banana Bread can be made ahead of time and stored for later enjoyment. Allow the bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze slices of the bread for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or pop them in a toaster for a quick treat!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of sugar?

Absolutely! While coconut sugar and brown sugar work well, you can substitute with maple syrup or agave nectar, adjusting the liquid in the recipe accordingly.

Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour, ensuring that it contains xanthan gum for better texture.

Can I make this banana bread without walnuts?

Definitely! You can omit the walnuts or replace them with your favorite nuts or seeds. You can also add dried fruits or chocolate chips for variation.

What should I serve with Vegan Sourdough Banana Bread?

This banana bread is delicious on its own, but you can enhance it with almond butter, vegan cream cheese, or even a drizzle of Maple Walnut Banana Bread for added flavor.

Try These Next

Zucchini Bread – A moist and flavorful alternative for your baking repertoire.
Maple Walnut Banana Bread – A delicious twist on the classic banana bread.

Serve & Enjoy

Now that your Vegan Sourdough Banana Bread has cooled and is ready to serve, slice into it and enjoy the delightful aroma that fills your kitchen. Serve it for breakfast alongside a cup of coffee, or pack it in your lunch for a tasty afternoon snack. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it all by yourself, this banana bread is bound to bring a smile to your face.

This Vegan Sourdough Banana Bread is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and the joy of baking. With its simple ingredients and easy method, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate sourdough into your baking routine while ensuring that every bite is deliciously satisfying. Happy baking!

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