The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

This is The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) you’ll ever eat! Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is made with oat flour and naturally sweetened with coconut sugar. It’s not only delicious but also moist and fluffy, making it a fantastic treat for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch or need a quick grab-and-go snack, this recipe checks all the boxes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Naturally Sweetened: Using coconut sugar and ripe bananas means no refined sugars are needed!
• Vegan & Gluten-Free: Suitable for various dietary preferences without compromising on taste.
• Moist and Fluffy Texture: The combination of ripe bananas and oat flour creates a delightful texture that melts in your mouth.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit for extra flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make this banana bread, you’ll need a few key tools to ensure everything comes together smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows you to combine all wet ingredients thoroughly before adding dry ones.
• Loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking and gives the bread its classic shape.
• Wire rack: Cooling the bread on a wire rack prevents moisture buildup at the bottom, keeping it fresh longer.

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Ingredients

This is the best vegan & gluten-free banana bread you’ll ever eat! Made with oat flour & naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, this healthy banana bread is perfectly moist, fluffy & delicious!

For the Banana Bread

• 3 ripe bananas (= 1 ½ cups mashed banana)
• ⅓ cup coconut sugar
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• ¼ cup non-dairy milk
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 3 tbsp coconut oil (melted)
• 2 cups oat flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt
• ⅓ cup vegan chocolate chips (plus more for topping)
• ¼ cup walnuts (chopped)

How to Make The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together:
1. Mashed bananas
2. Coconut sugar
3. Maple syrup
4. Non-dairy milk
5. Melted coconut oil
6. Vanilla extract
7. Apple cider vinegar

Make sure everything is well combined before moving on.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In the same bowl, mix in:
1. Oat flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Cinnamon
5. Nutmeg
6. Salt
7. Vegan chocolate chips

Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix!

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Top it off with additional vegan chocolate chips and chopped walnuts if desired.

Step 5: Bake the Loaf

Bake in the preheated oven for 60-65 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Down

Once baked, let the bread sit in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for maintaining its structure!

Once cool, slice it up and serve! Enjoy every bite of your The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)!

How to Serve The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

This banana bread is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you prefer it for breakfast, as a snack, or even dessert, there are numerous serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Toasted with Nut Butter

• Spread almond or peanut butter on warm slices for added protein and healthy fats.

With Fresh Fruit

• Top the banana bread with slices of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a refreshing touch.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup adds extra sweetness that complements the natural flavors of the bread.

Served with Dairy-Free Yogurt

• Pairing a slice with coconut yogurt creates a delightful contrast in texture and flavor.

As a Dessert Topped with Vegan Ice Cream

• Enjoy a warm slice topped with your favorite vegan ice cream for an indulgent treat.

How to Perfect The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

Perfecting this banana bread is all about technique and ingredient choices. Follow these tips to ensure your loaf turns out perfectly every time.

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will be.

• Measure Flour Correctly: Use a spoon to scoop oat flour into your measuring cup, then level off. This prevents dense bread caused by too much flour.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough banana bread.

• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked. Adjust bake time as needed based on your oven.

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing it to cool helps maintain moisture and makes slicing easier.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

For a complete meal experience, consider pairing your banana bread with these delightful side dishes. They complement the flavors beautifully and enhance your overall enjoyment.

1. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy and nutritious option that adds a nice texture contrast alongside the banana bread.

2. Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits balances the sweetness of the banana bread.

3. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits and top with granola for a vibrant breakfast option alongside banana bread.

4. Avocado Toast: Savory avocado on whole-grain toast creates an exciting flavor combination when served together.

5. Oatmeal: A warm bowl of oatmeal can be a hearty side that complements the sweet notes of banana bread.

6. Coconut Yogurt Parfait: Layer coconut yogurt with granola and berries for an elegant side dish that pairs well with the banana flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking banana bread can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas do not have the sweetness and flavor needed for the best banana bread. Always use overripe bananas with brown spots for optimal taste.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Improper measurements can affect the texture of your bread. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure accuracy.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the banana bread too soon can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bread dense and tough. Stir just until combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not checking for doneness: Relying solely on baking time can lead to undercooked or burnt bread. Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when done.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture.

Freezing The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing quality.

Reheating The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F and heat wrapped slices for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, flipping occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free).

Can I substitute oat flour with another flour?

You can use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour as alternatives, but keep in mind that this may alter texture and flavor.

How do I make this banana bread nut-free?

Simply omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower or pumpkin seeds for added crunch without nuts.

What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?

Place unripe bananas in a paper bag at room temperature. This traps ethylene gas, speeding up ripening.

Can I add other mix-ins?

Absolutely! Feel free to add dried fruits, seeds, or different types of chocolate chips based on your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various add-ins like nuts or dried fruit. This recipe is perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon snack. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!