Vegan Carrot Cake Banana Bread
Deliciously moist, this vegan carrot cake banana bread is a simple recipe, ready in less than 30 minutes. Ripe bananas lend their natural sweetness, while grated carrots add a vibrant touch.
The cinnamon and crunchy pecans add depth and texture, creating a symphony of flavours in every bite. Made with plant-based ingredients, this vegan treat is a guilt-free indulgence that will satisfy your cravings.
Optionally topped with a blend of vegan cream cheese, yoghurt, maple syrup, and cinnamon, this carrot cake banana bread is a true delight for vegans and non-vegans alike. Enjoy a slice of this moist and flavorful bread, perfect for breakfast, snack time, or any moment you desire.
Are you passionate about plant-based treats and eager to try out something new? Then this recipe is just for you!
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Why this recipe works
You’ll fall in love with this cake and you’ll make it again and again. This recipe is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans or those looking to incorporate more plant-based options into their diet. Perfectly moist and tender, this cake is very simple to make and can be easily mastered, allowing you to enjoy the fruits of your labour without the hassle.
Ingredients to make Vegan Carrot Cake Banana Bread
- Banana: Ripe bananas are used in this recipe for their natural sweetness. The ripeness adds flavour and moisture to the banana bread.
- Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that enhances the overall sweetness of the bread. It also adds a distinct, rich flavour.
- Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is the chosen fat in this vegan recipe. It contributes to the bread’s moist texture and adds a subtle coconut flavour.
- Self-Raising Flour: Self-raising flour contains baking powder, which helps the bread rise. It simplifies the baking process by eliminating the need to add a separate leavening agent.
- Carrots: Grated carrots add sweetness, moisture, and vibrant orange colour to the bread. They also contribute to the overall texture.
- Cinnamon: Cinnamon brings warmth and depth of flavour to the bread. It complements the sweetness of the bananas and carrots.
- Pecans: Pecans provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavour.
Substitutions
- Banana: Substitute with unsweetened applesauce, mashed pumpkin, or mashed sweet potato, around 500 grams or 2 cups.
- Maple Syrup: Replace with agave nectar, date syrup, or coconut nectar.
- Coconut Oil: Swap with vegetable oil, melted vegan butter, or applesauce.
- Self-Raising Flour: Make your own by adding baking powder and salt to all-purpose flour. For 1 cup of self-raising flour, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder and 1/4 teaspoon of salt.
- Carrots: Grated zucchini or sweet potato can be a great substitute for carrots.
- Cinnamon: Nutmeg or allspice can be used as an alternative or a combination of both.
- Pecans: Substitute with walnuts, almonds, or chopped macadamia nuts, depending on your preference or any nut allergies.
Variations to explore
If you’re looking to explore variations of vegan carrot cake banana bread, here are a few ideas to consider:
Spiced Delight: Enhance the flavours with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Add about 1 teaspoon of each to the batter for a cosy and aromatic twist.
Citrus Infusion: Give your carrot cake banana bread a tangy twist by incorporating some citrus zest. Add the zest of an orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing burst of flavour.
How to make this recipe
The beauty of this recipe is that it can be enjoyed any time you crave the flavours of carrot cake and banana bread combined. So, feel free to savour it whenever it brings you joy!
Step 1: Add wet ingredients to a bowl and mix until smooth.
Step 2: Incorporate dry ingredients into the batter.
Step 3: Transfer the batter into a loaf pan, lined with parchment paper.
Step 4: Bake in a preheated oven at 356°F (180°C) for 50-60 minutes.
Step 5: Make the cheese topping and spread it out on the banana bread, then sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
Step 6: Cut the cake into slices and enjoy with coffee or tea.
*A full list of ingredients and instructions can be found in the recipe card below.
Leftovers and Storage
Cool Completely: Allow your cake to cool completely before storing it. This helps prevent condensation and keeps it from becoming soggy.
Airtight Container: Place the bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. This helps maintain its moisture and prevents it from drying out.
Refrigeration Option: If you plan to consume the bread within a few days, storing it in the refrigerator can help extend its freshness. Just make sure to place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly to prevent it from absorbing any odours.
Freezing for Long-Term Storage: If you want to store the banana bread for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminium foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. Ensure it is well sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen banana bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. Alternatively, you can gently warm individual slices in a toaster or microwave.
Proper storage helps preserve the freshness and flavour of your vegan carrot cake banana bread, ensuring that each bite remains a delectable treat.
Recipe FAQs
The best kind of drinks that go well with this vegan carrot cake banana bread
When it comes to pairing beverages with vegan carrot cake banana bread, there are a few options that can complement its flavours nicely. Here are some suggestions:
- Hot Chai Latte: The warm, aromatic spices in chai, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, can beautifully enhance the flavours of the cake.
- Iced Matcha Latte: The earthy and slightly sweet notes of matcha can provide a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread.
- Cold Brew Coffee: If you enjoy coffee, a smooth and rich cold brew can be a great choice. Its bold flavour can complement the hearty and slightly spiced nature of the bread.
- Herbal Tea: Opt for a light and soothing herbal tea, such as chamomile or peppermint. These can provide a calming accompaniment to the flavours of the cake.
- Freshly Squeezed Lemonade: Since you mentioned a love for lemon cake, why not extend that citrusy goodness with a glass of refreshing lemonade? The tanginess can add a delightful contrast to the sweet and spiced bread.
Taste preferences vary, so feel free to explore and find the beverage that resonates best with your palate.
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Recipe
Vegan Carrot Cake Banana Bread
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater
- Loaf Pan
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
- 4 large very ripe bananas mashed
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- ⅓ cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
- 2 ¼ cups self-raising flour or 2 1/4 cups plain flour mixed with 3 tsp baking powder and 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 large carrots grated
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Optional Topping:
- 3 tbsp vegan cream cheese or Philadelphia cream cheese
- 2 tbsp vegan vanilla yogurt or plain or 2 tbsp crème fraîche
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 356°F (180°C). Grease and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, maple syrup, and melted coconut oil or olive oil.4 large very ripe bananas, 1/3 cup maple syrup, 1/3 cup melted coconut oil or olive oil
- Fold in the grated carrots, cinnamon, and chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.2 large carrots, 2 tsp cinnamon, 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Add the self-raising flour (or plain flour mixed with baking powder and salt) to the bowl and stir until well combined.2 1/4 cups self-raising flour
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the optional topping, in a small bowl, combine the vegan cream cheese (or Philadelphia cream cheese), vegan vanilla yogurt (or plain yogurt or crème fraîche), maple syrup, and cinnamon. Mix until smooth and well combined.3 tbsp vegan cream cheese or Philadelphia cream cheese, 2 tbsp vegan vanilla yogurt, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- Once the carrot cake banana bread has cooled, drizzle the topping over the loaf or spread it evenly on top. Drop some extra chopped pecans.
- Slice and serve the carrot cake banana bread, and enjoy!
- Note: This recipe can be made vegan by using vegan cream cheese, vegan yogurt, and maple syrup. Alternatively, you can use regular cream cheese, yogurt and honey if you prefer non-vegan options.
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