Name: Vegan Spelt Banana Bread with Pecans & Chocolate Chunks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 2 cups light spelt flour; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; ¾ cup dairy-free chocolate chunks; ¾ cup pecan halves, chopped; 4-5 pieces very ripe bananas, peeled ((about 1 ½ cups mashed banana total)); ½ cup maple syrup; ½ cup melted coconut oil ((or avocado oil, sunflower oil, melted vegan butter)); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Banana bread is one of those universally loved baked goods that seems to bring comfort and warmth to every kitchen. This Vegan Spelt Banana Bread with Pecans & Chocolate Chunks takes the classic recipe to new heights with the nutty flavor of spelt flour and the indulgence of rich chocolate and crunchy pecans. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, this bread is sure to have everyone asking for seconds!

Why It’s My Go-To

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making banana bread. Perhaps it’s the way it fills the house with a sweet, inviting aroma as it bakes, or maybe it’s the fact that it’s a delightful way to use up overripe bananas. This Vegan Spelt Banana Bread with Pecans & Chocolate Chunks is my favorite because it’s not only delicious but also wholesome. The spelt flour adds a lovely earthiness, while the chocolate chunks and pecans create a perfect balance of flavor and texture. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to recipe in my kitchen.

Gather These Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Vegan Spelt Banana Bread with Pecans & Chocolate Chunks, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cups light spelt flour
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
¾ cup dairy-free chocolate chunks
¾ cup pecan halves, chopped
4-5 very ripe bananas, peeled (about 1 ½ cups mashed banana total)
½ cup maple syrup
½ cup melted coconut oil (or avocado oil, sunflower oil, melted vegan butter, plus extra for greasing)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Equipment at a Glance

Before you dive into baking, make sure you have the following equipment handy:

Mixing Bowls: For combining dry and wet ingredients.
Loaf Pan: A standard 9×5 inch loaf pan works perfectly.
Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for the best results.
Spatula: For folding in the chocolate and nuts.
Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for optimal baking.

Cook Vegan Spelt Banana Bread with Pecans & Chocolate Chunks Like This

Now that you have everything ready, let’s get started with the steps to create this delightful Vegan Spelt Banana Bread with Pecans & Chocolate Chunks.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your loaf pan by lightly greasing it with a bit of coconut oil or vegan butter.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, take your very ripe bananas and mash them until they are smooth. You should have about 1 ½ cups of mashed banana.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add the maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is combined into a smooth mixture.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another mixing bowl, whisk together the spelt flour, ground cinnamon, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt. Make sure there are no lumps for a uniform batter.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold the two together. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay!

Step 6: Add the Goodies

Gently fold in the dairy-free chocolate chunks and chopped pecans, reserving a few for topping if desired.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with your spatula and sprinkle any reserved chocolate and pecans on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy

Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your delightful Vegan Spelt Banana Bread with Pecans & Chocolate Chunks!

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

This banana bread is versatile and can be dressed up for the holidays or any season with a few simple tweaks:

Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or raisins for a festive touch.
Incorporate 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Top with a drizzle of dairy-free chocolate ganache for an extra indulgent treat.
Serve warm with vegan butter for a cozy winter breakfast.

Slip-Ups to Skip

While making this Vegan Spelt Banana Bread with Pecans & Chocolate Chunks is straightforward, here are a few common mistakes to avoid:

Using unripe bananas: Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and moisture.
Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined to keep the bread tender.
Not greasing the pan: Ensure your loaf pan is well-greased to prevent sticking.
Skipping the cooling time: Allowing the bread to cool properly makes slicing easier.

Freezer-Friendly Notes

This Vegan Spelt Banana Bread with Pecans & Chocolate Chunks is not only delicious but also freezer-friendly. Here’s how to make the most of it:

Allow the banana bread to cool completely before slicing.
Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
This bread can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature or pop in the toaster for a quick treat!

Quick Q&A

Can I substitute the spelt flour with another flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or all-purpose flour, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.

How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?

The banana bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet with batter, it needs more time.

Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the spelt flour with a gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to check the proportions as they may vary.

What can I use instead of maple syrup?

You can use agave syrup or a mixture of brown sugar and water as a substitute for maple syrup in this recipe.

The Last Word

This Vegan Spelt Banana Bread with Pecans & Chocolate Chunks is more than just a simple recipe; it’s a delightful way to enjoy the flavors of ripe bananas, rich chocolate, and crunchy nuts. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or friends, this bread is sure to please everyone’s palate. It’s an easy, wholesome treat that can be enjoyed year-round, making it a staple in any kitchen. So gather your ingredients and get baking – you won’t regret it!