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

This is the best healthy banana bread (vegan & gluten-free) you’ll ever eat! Perfectly moist and fluffy, this delightful treat is made with oat flour and naturally sweetened with coconut sugar. Whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, this banana bread is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Nutritious Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients like bananas and oat flour, this banana bread is a guilt-free indulgence.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, even beginner bakers can whip up this delicious treat.
• Versatile Enjoyment: Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet dessert—this recipe fits any occasion!
• Naturally Sweetened: No refined sugars here! The combination of ripe bananas and coconut sugar creates a naturally sweet flavor.
• Vegan & Gluten-Free: Suitable for various dietary preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, ensure you have the right tools to make your baking experience seamless.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan (9×5 inch)
• Parchment paper
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wire rack

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking for perfectly shaped banana bread.
• Whisk: Helps combine ingredients smoothly for a well-mixed batter without lumps.
• Wire rack: Allows the bread to cool evenly after baking, preventing sogginess.

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

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

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

Whisk these ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

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

Mix gently until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Transfer Batter to Pan

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

Step 5: Bake the Bread

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

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Remove from the oven and let it sit in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy your delicious creation!

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

Serving your banana bread can elevate the experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your delicious loaf.

Toasted with Nut Butter

• Spread almond or peanut butter on warm slices for a protein boost and added flavor.

Topped with Fresh Fruit

• Add slices of strawberries, bananas, or blueberries on top for a refreshing twist.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and complements the flavors of the banana bread perfectly.

Served with Coconut Yogurt

• Pairing banana bread with coconut yogurt creates a creamy texture and enhances its tropical vibe.

Accompanied by Herbal Tea

• Enjoying a slice with a warm cup of herbal tea makes for a comforting snack or breakfast option.

Made into French Toast

• Dip slices in a mixture of non-dairy milk and cinnamon, then cook until golden for a decadent breakfast treat.

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

Perfecting your banana bread is easy with just a few tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your loaf turns out amazing every time.

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for those with lots of brown spots!

• Measure Oat Flour Accurately: Spoon oat flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour can lead to a dense loaf.

• Don’t Overmix: Gently mix the batter until just combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.

• Add Mix-Ins Wisely: Incorporate nuts or chocolate chips sparingly. This keeps the balance of flavors without overwhelming the batter.

• Check for Doneness Early: Start checking your bread at 55 minutes; every oven varies, and you want it perfectly baked.

• Cool Completely Before Slicing: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan helps set its structure, making slicing easier.

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

Pairing side dishes with banana bread can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some excellent options you can consider.

1. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of banana bread.

2. Smoothie Bowl: A blended fruit smoothie topped with granola complements the dense texture of banana bread nicely.

3. Oatmeal: Warm oatmeal made with non-dairy milk offers a hearty side that pairs well for breakfast.

4. Chia Pudding: Creamy chia pudding makes for an excellent contrast in textures while being nutritious and satisfying.

5. Granola Bars: Homemade or store-bought granola bars provide an extra crunch alongside soft banana bread slices.

6. Nutty Trail Mix: A handful of trail mix made from nuts and dried fruits can add protein and crunch while enhancing flavor profiles.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free), it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Using Unripe Bananas: Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture. Always use bananas with brown spots for the best results.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread. Stir until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.

• Skipping the Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient reacts with baking soda, helping the bread rise. Don’t omit it for optimal texture.

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precise amounts. This will ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time.

• Opening the Oven Door Too Soon: This can cause the bread to collapse. Wait until the baking time is nearing completion before checking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Enjoy within 5 days for best flavor and texture.

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

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator when ready to eat.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place slices on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes on each side, adding a little coconut oil if desired.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of flour?

Yes! You can experiment with other gluten-free flours like almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour, though results may vary.

How can I make this banana bread sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter banana bread, increase the amount of coconut sugar or maple syrup slightly according to taste.

Can I add nuts or seeds?

Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts or seeds like chia or flaxseed for added nutrition and crunch.

What if I don’t have oat flour?

You can easily make oat flour by blending rolled oats in a blender until fine. Alternatively, try another gluten-free flour blend.

How do I know when my banana bread is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your banana bread is ready!

Final Thoughts

This recipe for The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding your favorite mix-ins such as nuts, seeds, or extra spices. Give it a try—the perfect balance of healthiness and flavor awaits you!