Vegan Banana Bread

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch (23×13 cm) loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Wet Ingredients:
   • In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher.
   • Add melted coconut oil (or vegetable oil), vanilla extract, almond milk, and apple cider vinegar. Mix well until combined.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients:
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using).
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
   • Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.
   • If desired, fold in chopped nuts or vegan chocolate chips.
5. Transfer to Loaf Pan:
   • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
6. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 55-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
   • The baking time may vary, so start checking around 50 minutes.
7. Cooling:
   • Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Slice and Serve:
   • Once cooled, slice the banana bread and serve. It can be enjoyed as is or with a spread of vegan butter or nut butter.