Nothing beats the comfort of a homemade banana bread, especially when it’s loaded with rich, dark chocolate and made with wholesome ingredients. This banana bread recipe is perfect for those who crave something sweet yet nutritious, offering the perfect balance between indulgence and health-conscious eating. Whether you’re a fan of banana bread or just a chocolate lover, this plant-based loaf will quickly become a favorite in your household. The combination of ripe bananas, maple syrup, and vanilla creates a moist, flavorful base, while the dark chocolate adds a decadent touch that’s impossible to resist.
What makes this banana bread extra special is its simplicity and the use of plant-based ingredients that not only make it a healthier option but also ensure that it’s suitable for a variety of diets. The whole wheat pastry flour adds a subtle nuttiness, while the flax eggs provide a vegan-friendly alternative to traditional eggs, ensuring the bread is moist and finely crumbed. This recipe is also versatile—perfect as a breakfast treat, a snack, or even a dessert. Plus, it’s a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter, turning them into something truly delicious.
Servings: 1 Loaf
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons finely ground flaxseed
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
- ⅓ cup neutral oil (such as sunflower or safflower)
- 6 tablespoons water
- 1 cup finely mashed banana (approximately 3 bananas)
- 1 cup dark chocolate callets, chips, or chunks
- ¼ cup unsweetened oat milk (or your preferred unsweetened plant milk)
- ½ cup maple syrup
Instructions:
- Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (160°C). Prepare a standard 9 x 5 inch loaf pan by greasing it with a little extra oil and lining it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides to help with easy removal after baking.
- Create your flax eggs by combining the ground flaxseed and 6 tablespoons of water in a small bowl. Let this mixture sit for at least 10 minutes until it becomes thick and gel-like.
- While your flax eggs are setting, sift together the whole wheat pastry flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Once sifted, whisk these dry ingredients together until well combined.
- In a separate large bowl, mix the wet ingredients: add the maple syrup, neutral oil, oat milk, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Once the flax eggs are ready, mix them into the wet ingredients as well, ensuring everything is thoroughly combined.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing gently with a silicone spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; it’s okay if a few streaks of flour remain.
- Add in the dark chocolate callets or chips, and give the batter a final gentle mix until the chocolate is evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly. Place the pan on the center rack of your preheated oven and bake for 55-65 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean. If not, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes as needed.
- Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan on a wire rack. After cooling, use the parchment overhang to lift the bread out of the pan. For best results, slice the loaf once it has fully cooled, although sneaking a warm slice is highly encouraged!
Nutritional Information & Dietary Concerns: This banana bread is a great option for those looking for a healthier treat. It’s rich in fiber thanks to the whole wheat flour and flaxseeds, and the bananas add natural sweetness along with essential vitamins and minerals like potassium. The dark chocolate provides antioxidants, while the plant-based ingredients make this recipe vegan-friendly. It’s also free from refined sugars, as maple syrup serves as a natural sweetener. If you’re looking for a lower-calorie option, you can substitute the oil with unsweetened applesauce, though it may slightly alter the texture.
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