Going vegan has become a popular lifestyle choice for many people, and with this comes the need to find suitable replacements for their favorite non-vegan foods. One of the staples of any diet is bread, but many traditional bread recipes contain animal products such as eggs and dairy. Fear not, though, as there are plenty of delicious vegan bread recipes out there to satisfy your carb cravings. Whether you enjoy a classic sourdough or prefer something a little sweeter like banana bread, there’s a vegan recipe out there for everyone. In this article, we’ll share some of our favorite vegan bread recipes that are simple to make and incredibly tasty.
Introduction to Vegan Bread Recipes
Veganism is a lifestyle and philosophy that abstains from the use of animal products. Vegan bread recipe is a form of bread that excludes animal products and is made from plant-based ingredients. Bread making is an ancient craft that has evolved over time. With the advent of more specialized, alternative diets, veganism has become a popular lifestyle choice for many. Vegan bread is a healthier option as it is low in calories, fat-free, and has a high fiber content.
Benefits of Veganism and Bread Making
Adopting a vegan lifestyle has a host of benefits, both for the environment and for personal health. A vegan diet helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions, land and water use, and crop damage from animal grazing. Fruits, vegetables, and grains have been found to reduce the risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes.
Bread making has therapeutic benefits; kneading the dough can help ease anxiety and stress and provide a creative outlet for self-expression. Homemade bread enables customization of ingredients and provides the satisfaction that comes from the sense of accomplishment that comes with making it from scratch. Vegan bread is a perfect choice for people who are intolerant of lactose or have food sensitivities.
Why You Should Consider Making Vegan Bread
Baking your own vegan bread gives you the opportunity to customize the bread to your tastes and dietary needs. You can experiment with adding spices, herbs, nuts, and seeds to the dough to make it more flavorful. Homemade bread is preservative-free, and you can avoid the unnecessary chemicals, additives, and artificial ingredients commonly found in commercial bread. You’ll also save money in the long run.
Another reason to consider making vegan bread is that it promotes ethical and environmental awareness. Animal agriculture requires significant water, land, and resources and generates considerable greenhouse gas emissions. Industrial bread production is also associated with deforestation, soil depletion, and chemical pollution. By making your own vegan bread, you can reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier planet.
Types of Flours That Can Be Used to Make Vegan Bread
Baking vegan bread can be a challenge to some, but it’s a great alternative to the regular bread. With the right flour and other ingredients, you can achieve a delicious and healthy bread that’s vegan-friendly. Here are some types of flours that can be used to make vegan bread.
Whole Wheat Flour
Whole wheat flour is an excellent choice for baking vegan bread. It contains all parts of the wheat grain, which provides more fiber and nutrients than regular flour. The bran and germ found in whole wheat flour are great for your digestive system and can help regulate your blood sugar levels. When using whole wheat flour, be sure to follow the recipe carefully, as it can be heavier than other flours.
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour is a versatile flour that can be used for many purposes. It’s a blend of hard and soft wheat, and it comes in two types: bleached or unbleached. When baking vegan bread, unbleached all-purpose flour is the best choice because it contains more nutrients than its bleached counterpart. When using all-purpose flour, make sure to use a high-protein brand to ensure that your bread will rise properly.
Bread Flour
Bread flour is a high-protein flour that’s perfect for baking vegan bread. It’s made from hard wheat and contains more gluten than other flours, which makes it perfect for bread-making. Bread flour produces a chewy and crispy crust, which is perfect for sandwich bread and other types of bread. When using bread flour, make sure to mix it well to develop the gluten which will give your bread a perfect texture.
Alternative Flours
For those who are looking for gluten-free options or wanting to try something new, alternative flours like almond flour and coconut flour can be great substitutes. Almond flour is made from finely ground almonds and has a nutty flavor, while coconut flour is made from dried coconut meat and has a slightly sweet taste. These flours can be challenging to bake with, so be sure to follow the recipe carefully and experiment with smaller batches first.
How to Replace Eggs in Vegan Bread Recipes
Bread is a staple food that many vegans enjoy. While eggs are commonly used in bread recipes, there are several ways to make vegan bread without them. Here are some tips and tricks to replace eggs in vegan bread recipes:
Using Flaxseed or Chia Seeds
Flaxseed and chia seeds are excellent egg replacements in vegan bread recipes. These seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, and they provide a binding agent that helps hold the bread together.
To use flaxseed or chia seeds as an egg replacement, mix 1 tablespoon of either seed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for at least five minutes until it becomes gelatinous. This mixture acts as a binder and replaces one egg in the bread recipe.
Using Applesauce or Mashed Bananas
Applesauce and mashed bananas make great egg substitutes in vegan bread recipes. Both ingredients add moisture and sweetness to the bread while binding the ingredients together.
To replace one egg in a bread recipe, use ¼ cup of applesauce or mashed banana. Be sure to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe as applesauce and bananas will add sweetness to the bread.
Using Vegan Egg Replacements like Aquafaba
Aquafaba is the liquid found in canned chickpeas and other legumes. It’s an excellent vegan egg replacement and is perfect for making vegan bread. Use 3 tablespoons of aquafaba to replace one egg in your bread recipe.
There are also many vegan egg replacements available in stores like Ener-G egg replacer, Bob’s Red Mill egg replacer, and JUST Egg. These egg replacements are made from plant-based ingredients and work well in vegan bread recipes. Follow the package instructions to replace eggs in your bread recipe.
How to Substitute Milk in Vegan Bread Recipes
Baking bread can be a tricky task, and finding the perfect milk substitute can be equally challenging. However, there are multiple vegan milk alternatives that can be used in bread recipes without compromising the texture or flavor of the final product. Here is a thorough guide to help you choose the right milk for your vegan bread recipes.
1. Almond Milk
Almond milk is a healthy, plant-based milk that is naturally free from lactose, gluten, and soy. It is rich in nutrients such as vitamin E, vitamin D, calcium, and protein. Almond milk has a nutty flavor that can add a unique taste to bread recipes. When using almond milk, it is recommended to choose unsweetened and unflavored varieties to avoid altering the taste of the bread. If you are making sourdough bread, almond milk can be an ideal starter.
2. Oat Milk
Oat milk is an excellent vegan milk substitute that is similar in texture to dairy milk. It is rich in beta-glucans, a type of soluble fiber that can lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Oat milk has a mild flavor that can complement most bread recipes. Oat milk is also an ideal substitute for buttermilk or yogurt in bread recipes, making it an excellent option for vegan sourdough bread.
3. Soy Milk
Soy milk is a popular dairy-free substitute that is rich in protein and vitamin B12. Soy milk has a mild flavor and can add a creamy texture to vegan bread recipes. It is available in different varieties such as sweetened, unsweetened, and flavored. If you are using soy milk in bread recipes, choose the unsweetened and unflavored variety to avoid overpowering the final product’s taste. Soy milk is also an ideal substitute for evaporated or condensed milk in recipes, making it a versatile ingredient in vegan baking.
4. Coconut Milk
Coconut milk is a delicious vegan substitute that is creamy and rich in flavor. It is extracted from the flesh of mature coconuts, making it an excellent source of healthy fats. Coconut milk can add a tropical flavor to bread recipes, making it an ideal substitute for recipes that have tropical flavors such as banana bread or mango bread. When using coconut milk in bread recipes, it is recommended to use the unsweetened variety to avoid altering the final product’s texture and taste.
When substituting milk in vegan bread recipes, it’s important to keep in mind that different types of milk can alter the final texture and flavor of the bread. It’s crucial to understand the recipe’s requirements and choose a milk substitute that can complement the recipe’s flavor and texture.
Popular Vegan Bread Recipes to Try
Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or interested in exploring plant-based options, vegan bread recipes are a great place to start. Below are some popular vegan bread recipes to try, along with tips and tricks for each recipe.
Sandwich Bread
Sandwich bread is a staple in most households, and making it vegan is easier than you might think. This recipe uses simple ingredients and can be customized to your tastes.
- Ingredients:
- 3 cups flour
- 2 tsp active dry yeast
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp salt
- Directions:
- Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
- Knead for 10 minutes until dough is smooth and elastic.
- Cover dough and let rise for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Shape dough into a loaf and place in a greased loaf pan.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Sourdough Bread
Sourdough bread is a popular option for those who want to indulge in a tangy flavor. This recipe requires some patience, but the end result is worth it.
- Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 cup sourdough starter
- 3/4 cup warm water
- Directions:
- In a bowl, mix flour and salt.
- Add sourdough starter and water, and mix until a dough is formed.
- Knead dough for 10-15 mins until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover and let rest for 8-12 hours.
- Preheat oven to 450°F with a baking stone inside.
- Shape dough into a round and let rest for 30 minutes.
- Score the dough and place on the hot baking stone.
- Bake for 30 minutes or until golden brown.
Banana Bread
Banana bread is a classic recipe that can easily be made vegan. This recipe uses ripe bananas, making it a great option for using up bananas that may otherwise go to waste.
- Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 2 flax eggs (2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 3/4 cups flour
- 1/4 tsp salt
- Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a loaf pan.
- In a bowl, mash bananas with a fork.
- Add coconut oil, maple syrup, flax eggs, and vanilla extract and mix well.
- Add baking soda, flour, and salt, and mix until well combined.
- Pour batter into the greased loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cinnamon Rolls
Cinnamon rolls are a decadent treat that can be made vegan without sacrificing any flavor. This recipe is simple and can be made ahead of time for a special occasion.
- Ingredients:
- 3 cups flour
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 2 1/4 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup water
- 1/4 cup vegan butter
- 1/4 cup almond milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup vegan butter, softened
- Directions:
- Mix flour, sugar, yeast, and salt together in a bowl.
- Heat water, vegan butter, and milk until warm, then add to the bowl.
- Add applesauce and vanilla extract and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead for 10-15 mins until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased bowl, cover and let rest for 1 hour.
- Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened vegan butter together in a bowl.
- Roll dough out into a rectangle and spread cinnamon mixture on top.
- Roll dough into a log and use a knife to cut into rolls.
- Place rolls in a greased baking dish and let rest for 15-20 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Gluten-Free Bread
For those with gluten sensitivities, there are plenty of tasty gluten-free options out there. This recipe uses flaxseed and almond flour to create a bread that’s dense, yet flavorful.
- Ingredients:
- 1 cup almond flour
- 1 cup gluten-free flour
- 1/4 cup ground flaxseed
- 1 tsp active dry yeast
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey or maple syrup
- 1/2 tsp apple cider vinegar
- Directions:
- Mix almond flour, gluten-free flour, ground flaxseed, yeast, and salt together in a bowl.
- Add warm water, olive oil, honey or maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar, and mix until a dough forms.
- Knead for 5-10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Place dough in a greased loaf pan, cover and let rest for 1 hour.
- Preheat oven to 350°F and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
These are just a few of the many delicious vegan bread recipes out there. Whether you’re looking for a staple sandwich bread or a sweet treat like cinnamon rolls, there’s no shortage of options. Have fun experimenting in the kitchen and don’t be afraid to customize these recipes to your liking!
Tips for Perfecting Your Vegan Bread
Baking can be a daunting task in general, but when it comes to vegan bread, it can be even more challenging to get it just right. Here are some practical tips and tricks to help you perfect your vegan bread.
Choose the Right Flour
Choosing the right flour is the foundation of getting your vegan bread right. All-purpose flour is a common choice, but it is essential to note that it does not have a lot of gluten, which can affect the texture of your bread. Opting for bread flour or a mixture of both bread and all-purpose flour can help to improve your bread’s texture.
Knead Properly
Kneading is the process of working the dough with your hands to develop the gluten and create a cohesive, elastic dough. Ensure that you knead the dough thoroughly for about ten minutes or until the dough is smooth, elastic, and no longer sticky.
Proofing Tips
Proofing is the act of letting the dough rise before baking. When the dough proofing, it allows the yeast to ferment and produce carbon dioxide, which gives the bread its airy texture. Ensure that you proof your dough in a warm, draft-free place for the best results.
- For best results, proofing your dough in a room that is 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit is advisable.
- Line the bowl with a breathable towel or plastic wrap to avoid a sticky mess.
- Ensure that you keep an eye on the dough as it proofs. Overproofed dough can lead to bread that is dense, lacks flavor, and has gaping holes.
Oven Temperature
The oven temperature is vital for perfectly baked vegan bread. Preheat your oven to at least 425 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to heat for at least 30 minutes before baking.
Use a Baking Stone or Dutch Oven
A baking stone or a Dutch oven can help improve the texture of your vegan bread by creating a more even baking surface leading to a crispier crust and airier bread. Remember to preheat your baking stone in the oven before use to achieve an evenly baked loaf.
Troubleshooting Common Baking Issues
| Issue | Possible Solution |
|---|---|
| The bread is too dense | Check the dough’s gluten formation and the dough’s proofing time. Consider adding more yeast to your recipe. |
| The crust is too tough | Ensure that you are baking the bread at the correct temperature and remove the bread from the oven once done. |
| The bread is undercooked | Consider adjusting the temperature and the baking time. Experiment with prolonging the baking time or raising the heat level slightly. |
Hopefully, these tips and tricks will help you perfect your vegan bread, and if you’re having any issues, don’t be afraid to experiment with different recipes, flour types, and techniques until you find what works for you. Happy baking!
FAQs
How do I know when my vegan bread is done baking?
Checking whether your vegan bread is finished baking is similar to checking if non-vegan bread is done. You can tell if your vegan bread is done baking by tapping the top of the bread with your finger or a spoon. If the bread sounds hollow, then it’s ready.
Another way to check is by using a toothpick. Stick the toothpick into the thickest part of the bread, and if it comes out clean, then your bread is done baking. If not, then it needs a few more minutes in the oven. However, be aware that not all vegan bread recipes are the same, so be sure to read the instructions carefully and adjust accordingly.
Can I freeze vegan bread?
Yes, you can freeze vegan bread. Freezing your bread is a great way to preserve it for later. If you have any leftover vegan bread, it’s best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before putting it in the freezer. You can freeze pre-sliced or unsliced bread, but if you’re going to freeze unsliced bread, make sure to slice it before freezing it to make it easier to thaw. Once you’re ready to eat your frozen bread, simply take it out of the freezer, let it thaw at room temperature, and then toast it in the oven or a toaster.
What are some common mistakes to avoid when making vegan bread?
- Not checking the expiration date of the yeast before using it. Expired yeast will not rise your bread correctly and can lead to a flat loaf.
- Not giving the dough sufficient time to rise. This can result in a dense and heavy loaf.
- Not measuring the ingredients precisely. Adding too much flour or water can affect the texture and taste of the bread.
- Over-kneading the dough. Kneading the dough too much can lead to a tough bread.
- Baking the bread at the wrong temperature. Be sure to follow the recipe instructions and set the oven at the required temperature.
What are some good substitutes for eggs in vegan bread recipes?
Eggs are often used to bind, leaven, and add moisture to bread. However, there are several vegan substitutes that work just as well. Here are some substitutes you can use:
- Ground flaxseed or chia seeds mixed with water
- Applesauce or mashed bananas
- Soy or almond milk
- Vinegar mixed with baking powder
- Silken tofu
Can I use gluten-free flour in vegan bread recipes?
Yes, you can use gluten-free flour in vegan bread recipes. Gluten-free flour can swap for regular flour in most vegan bread recipes, but the texture and taste may differ. Gluten-free bread tends to be denser and more crumbly than regular bread. You can also add xanthan gum to your recipe to help improve the texture.
What can I add to my vegan bread recipe to give it more flavor?
There are many ways to add flavor to your vegan bread. Here are some suggestions:
- Herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, and garlic
- Nuts and seeds such as pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds
- Dried fruits such as cranberries or apricots
- Citrus zest such as lemon or orange
- Mashed bananas or apple sauce
How long does homemade vegan bread last?
Homemade vegan bread can last up to 5 days if stored in an airtight container or wrapped tightly with plastic wrap. It’s best to keep bread at room temperature and avoid storing it in the fridge as this can lead to stale bread. If you want to extend the shelf life of the bread, you can freeze it for up to three months.
Thanks for Reading! Bake Delicious Vegan Bread and Promote a Healthier Lifestyle
Now that you have discovered these amazing vegan bread recipes, it’s time to roll up your sleeves, put on your apron, and start baking! You don’t have to be a professional baker to enjoy the benefits of vegan food. Whether you are a vegan, a vegetarian, or just someone looking for healthy and tasty recipes, you will find inspiration and joy in making your own bread from scratch. So, why not try one of these recipes today and see the difference for yourself? And don’t forget to come back for more vegan food tips, tricks, and recipes, we’ll be here for you!