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, snacks, or dessert, it’s a delightful treat that everyone will love. With its moist texture and natural sweetness from ripe bananas and coconut sugar, this banana bread stands out as a wholesome option. It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed on various occasions, whether at a cozy brunch or as an afternoon snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with oat flour and natural sweeteners, this banana bread is a guilt-free indulgence.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal equipment, you can whip up this delicious treat in no time.
• Versatile Flavor: Customize with your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for added texture and taste.
• Perfectly Moist: The combination of ripe bananas and coconut oil ensures a fluffy and moist loaf every time.
• Vegan & Gluten-Free: Suitable for various dietary needs, making it an inclusive option for gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

You’ll need a few essential tools to get started with this recipe. Having the right equipment makes the process smoother and ensures better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowl: A large bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients without splatter.
• Loaf pan: A standard size ensures even baking, giving your banana bread the perfect shape.
• Wire rack: Cooling on a wire rack prevents sogginess by allowing air circulation around the bread.

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 Batter

• 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)

Dry Ingredients

• 2 cups oat flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 2 tsp cinnamon
• ½ tsp nutmeg
• ½ tsp salt

Add-Ins

• 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: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Mash the bananas until smooth.
2. Add coconut sugar, maple syrup, non-dairy milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar.
3. Whisk everything together until well combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In the same bowl:
1. Gradually add in oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vegan chocolate chips.
2. Stir until just combined—do not overmix!

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan.
– Top with extra vegan chocolate chips and chopped walnuts if desired.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

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

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Remove from oven:
1. Let it sit in the pan for about 15 minutes.
2. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy slices of this delightful healthy banana bread with friends or family!

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

Serving this healthy banana bread is simple and versatile. You can enjoy it on its own or elevate it with various toppings and pairings to suit your taste.

With Nut Butter

• Almond Butter – Spread a layer of almond butter for added creaminess and healthy fats.
• Peanut Butter – A classic choice that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of banana bread.

As Toast

• Toasted Slices – Warm up slices in a toaster for a crispy exterior and soft interior, perfect for breakfast.
• Avocado Spread – Top with mashed avocado for a savory twist.

With Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries – Fresh strawberries add a burst of flavor and color.
• Blueberries – Sprinkle some blueberries on top to enhance the fruity taste.

With Dairy-Free Yogurt

• Coconut Yogurt – Serve alongside coconut yogurt for a creamy, dairy-free option that adds moisture.
• Almond Yogurt – A tangy alternative that complements the sweetness of the banana bread.

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

Perfecting this banana bread is all about technique and ingredient quality. Here are some tips to ensure you get the best results.

• Use Ripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.
• Measure Ingredients Accurately – Using precise measurements helps in achieving the right texture.
• Don’t Overmix – Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to avoid dense bread; mix until just combined.
• Check for Doneness – Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.
• Cool Completely – Allowing the bread to cool completely enhances its flavor and texture before slicing.
• Store Properly – Keep leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness for longer.

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

Pairing side dishes with your banana bread can create a delightful meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad – A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness to your meal.
2. Chia Seed Pudding – Creamy and nutritious, chia seed pudding makes a great complement.
3. Smoothie Bowl – A vibrant smoothie bowl topped with granola enhances your banana bread experience.
4. Green Salad – A simple green salad brings balance with its refreshing flavors and textures.
5. Oatmeal – Serve alongside a bowl of oatmeal for a hearty breakfast combo that’s filling and nutritious.
6. Herbal Tea – Pair with a warm cup of herbal tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making banana bread can be simple, but a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Using unripe bananas: Unripe bananas lack the natural sweetness needed for this recipe. Always use ripe, brown bananas for the best flavor.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to dense banana bread. Stir until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Using the wrong measurements can ruin your banana bread’s texture. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups for precision.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the bread too soon can cause it to fall apart. Allow it to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
• Ignoring oven temperature calibration: Ovens can vary in temperature accuracy. Always check with an oven thermometer for precise baking conditions.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• The bread lasts up to 5 days in the fridge.

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

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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

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

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) more flavorful?

You can add nuts, seeds, or dried fruits to enhance flavor and texture.

Can I substitute oat flour in The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)?

Yes, you may use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour as alternatives.

How do I know when The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, it’s ready!

What can I use instead of coconut sugar?

Brown sugar or maple syrup works well as alternatives.

Final Thoughts

The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite mix-ins, making it perfect for breakfast or as a special snack. Try this recipe today and enjoy every bite!