Chestnut Loaf Recipe Vegan: Easy, Delicious & Nutritious

Welcome to a cozy corner of vegan baking with this delightful chestnut loaf recipe! Chestnuts bring a unique, subtly sweet flavor with a creamy texture that makes this loaf a perfect centerpiece for any season.

Whether you’re looking for a wholesome breakfast treat, a comforting snack, or a festive addition to your holiday table, this vegan chestnut loaf offers a hearty, nourishing option that’s free from dairy and eggs.

The natural earthiness of chestnuts blends beautifully with warm spices and a hint of maple syrup to create a loaf that’s moist, tender, and utterly satisfying. Plus, it’s easy to customize and sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

In this recipe, you’ll find simple ingredients and straightforward steps that even beginner bakers can follow. From prepping the chestnuts to baking the loaf to perfection, every detail is covered.

If you love plant-based baking or are just curious about incorporating chestnuts into your meals, this recipe is an excellent place to start. Let’s dive in and create a loaf full of flavor, nutrition, and vegan goodness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegan chestnut loaf recipe is a celebration of wholesome ingredients and comforting flavors. Here’s why it will quickly become one of your favorites:

• Rich, nutty flavor: Roasted chestnuts provide a naturally sweet and earthy taste that stands out from typical loaf recipes.
• Moist and tender texture: Thanks to the chestnut puree and plant-based milk, the loaf stays soft without relying on eggs or dairy.
• Healthy and nutritious: Chestnuts are low in fat and high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making this loaf a guilt-free treat.
• Versatile and customizable: You can easily add your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or spices to make it your own.
• Perfect for any occasion: Serve it as a snack, breakfast, or a festive dessert during holidays.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups cooked chestnuts (fresh roasted or vacuum-packed, skin removed)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat for a healthier twist)
• ½ cup almond flour (for added moisture and nuttiness)
• ½ cup plant-based milk (such as almond, oat, or soy)
• ¼ cup maple syrup (or agave nectar for sweetness)
• ¼ cup coconut oil, melted (or any neutral oil)
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
• Optional: ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins

Equipment

• Food processor or blender (to puree chestnuts)
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Loaf pan (9×5 inches recommended)
• Whisk or fork
• Spatula
• Oven
• Parchment paper or non-stick spray

Instructions

1. Prepare the chestnuts: If using fresh chestnuts, roast and peel them first. To roast, score each chestnut with a knife, roast in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 20-25 minutes, then peel off the shells and skins once cooled. Alternatively, use pre-cooked vacuum-packed chestnuts for convenience.
2. Puree the chestnuts: Place the cooked chestnuts in a food processor and blend until smooth. Add a splash of plant-based milk if needed to help form a creamy puree.
3. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper.
4. Mix dry ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
5. Combine wet ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the chestnut puree, plant-based milk, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract until smooth.
6. Combine wet and dry mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and gently fold together with a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf tender.
7. Add mix-ins: Fold in optional chopped nuts and dried fruit if using, to add texture and bursts of flavor.
8. Transfer to loaf pan: Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
9. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
10. Cool: Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra moist loaf, add 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce or mashed banana to the wet ingredients.”

• Chestnut Preparation: If fresh chestnuts aren’t available, canned or vacuum-packed chestnuts work well. Just make sure to drain and dry them before pureeing.
• Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but be sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder.
• Sweetness level: Adjust the maple syrup if you prefer a less sweet or more indulgent loaf.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for a warming twist.
• Nuts and fruits: Try toasted pecans or dried cherries for seasonal variations.
• Storage: Store the loaf in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This chestnut loaf pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings and accompaniments. Spread a layer of vegan butter or nut butter for a rich, creamy touch.

For a sweeter option, drizzle with a little extra maple syrup or your favorite fruit jam. It also makes a lovely base for a holiday vegan trifle when layered with coconut whipped cream and berries.

Enjoy it alongside a hot cup of coffee, chai tea, or a comforting bowl of soup. For a savory contrast, try serving slices with a spread of vegan cream cheese and smoked paprika.

This loaf’s versatile flavor profile means it complements both sweet and savory pairings beautifully.

Conclusion

This vegan chestnut loaf is a delicious way to enjoy the subtle sweetness and creamy texture of chestnuts in a wholesome baked good. Its simple ingredients and easy preparation make it approachable for bakers of all skill levels, while its rich flavor and moist crumb ensure it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, as a snack, or at a festive gathering, this loaf delivers comforting, plant-based goodness with every bite.

Don’t forget to experiment with the optional nuts and dried fruits to make the recipe your own. And if you’re interested in exploring more unique vegan and healthy recipes, check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a savory delight, or try a protein-packed twist with the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe.

For a tangy, spicy snack to complement your baking, the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe is a must-try.

Happy baking and enjoy the hearty warmth of this vegan chestnut loaf!

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