Wholesome Vegan Fruit Loaf: Packed with Nutritious Goodies

Introducing a vegan fruit loaf that redefines the concept of a nutritious and delicious breakfast or snack option. Crafted with a blend of wholesome ingredients, this loaf is a testament to how versatile and flavourful vegan baking can be.

This fruit loaf is studded with a colourful array of mixed berries, bringing bursts of juicy sweetness with every bite. The inclusion of finely chopped kale and grated carrots sneaks in an extra dose of nutrients without overwhelming the palate, while the shredded red apple adds a subtle freshness that binds the flavours together. The mix of dried fruits, such as sultanas and chopped apricots, introduces a delightful chewiness, and the crunch from a sprinkle of sunflower seeds and pepitas rounds off each slice with a satisfying finish.

This vegan fruit loaf makes a delicious quick breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or even a wholesome dessert served warm.

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups plain flour
1 cup rolled oats
1 tbsp baking powder
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon sea salt

Wet Ingredients:

1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
1/2 cup unsweetened oat milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Fold-ins:

1.5 cups mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
1 cup finely chopped kale
1 cup finely grated carrots
1 red apple, shredded
1/2 cup mixed dried fruit (such as sultanas, chopped apricots)
1/3 cup a mix of sunflower seeds and pepitas

Instructions:

1.  Prepare the Loaf Tin: Line a standard loaf tin with baking paper to prevent sticking. Ensure the paper extends over the edges for easy removal.
2.  Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure a consistent cooking temperature.
3.  Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the plain flour, rolled oats, baking powder, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sea salt.
4.  Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the melted coconut oil, oat milk, and vanilla extract until well blended.
5.  Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined, ensuring not to overmix.
6.  Add Fold-ins: Gently fold in the mixed berries, chopped kale, grated carrots, shredded apple, dried fruit, sunflower seeds, and pepitas. Mix until these ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
7.  Bake the Loaf: Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf tin. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 55 minutes. The loaf is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8.  Cool Before Slicing: Let the loaf cool in the tin for at least 10 minutes. This rest period helps in setting the loaf, making it easier to slice.
9.  Serve and Enjoy: Carefully remove the loaf from the tin using the overhanging baking paper as handles. Slice and serve as a delightful, wholesome breakfast option.

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