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

This is the best healthy banana bread (vegan & gluten-free) you’ll ever eat! Perfectly moist, fluffy, and delicious, it’s made with oat flour and naturally sweetened with coconut sugar. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast or as a delightful snack, this banana bread caters to all occasions and is sure to impress your family and friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and warm spices like cinnamon makes this banana bread incredibly flavorful.
• Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this banana bread in no time—perfect for busy mornings!
• Healthy Ingredients: Made with oat flour and coconut sugar, this recipe is both vegan and gluten-free, making it a healthier option.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it plain, topped with vegan chocolate chips, or paired with your favorite spreads for added flavor.
• Great for Meal Prep: This banana bread stores well, so you can make a batch ahead of time and have delicious snacks ready throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking the best healthy banana bread (vegan & gluten-free), gather your kitchen tools. Having everything ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Loaf pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups
• Parchment paper

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: Provides the perfect shape for your banana bread, ensuring even baking.
• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients efficiently without mess.
• Whisk: Helps in mixing wet ingredients thoroughly for a consistent batter.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor.

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 a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine 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 until combined.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

Add in the dry ingredients:
1. Oat flour,
2. Baking powder,
3. Baking soda,
4. Cinnamon,
5. Nutmeg,
6. Salt,
7. Vegan chocolate chips.

Mix until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

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

Step 5: Bake

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

Step 6: Cool Down

Remove from the oven and let it sit in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. It may be tempting to slice right away, but letting it cool ensures better texture!

Enjoy your deliciously healthy banana bread!

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

This banana bread is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it in various ways that enhance its natural flavors and textures.

Toasted with Nut Butter

• Top warm slices with almond or peanut butter for added protein and creaminess.

Served with Fresh Fruit

• Pair banana bread with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a refreshing contrast.

Drizzled with Plant-Based Yogurt

• Add a dollop of coconut yogurt for creaminess and a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness.

As a Dessert with Dairy-Free Ice Cream

• Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of your favorite dairy-free ice cream for an indulgent treat.

Paired with Herbal Tea

• Enjoy slices of banana bread with a cup of herbal tea, which enhances its comforting quality.

With a Sprinkle of Cinnamon Sugar

• Dust the top with cinnamon sugar for a sweet finish that boosts flavor and crunch.

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

To make this banana bread even better, follow these helpful tips that ensure success every time you bake.

• Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.

• Measure oat flour correctly: Spoon oat flour into your measuring cup and level it off to avoid using too much flour.

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep the bread light and fluffy; overmixing can make it dense.

• Adjust baking time: Check for doneness a few minutes early; every oven is different, and you want it perfectly baked.

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

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

1. Chia Seed Pudding: A creamy, nutritious pudding made from chia seeds soaked in non-dairy milk—perfectly complements banana bread.

2. Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the bread.

3. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits and top it with nuts or seeds for extra crunch alongside your banana bread.

4. Oatmeal: A warming bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or berries pairs well for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

5. Granola Parfait: Layer granola and dairy-free yogurt in a glass for an appealing presentation that goes well with banana bread.

6. Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Crunchy veggies like carrots and cucumbers dipped in hummus provide a savory contrast to sweet banana bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When baking The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free), it’s important to avoid common pitfalls for the best results.

• Overripe bananas: Using bananas that are too ripe can lead to overly mushy bread. Aim for ripe but not brown, as they will provide the right sweetness and texture.
• Incorrect measuring: Not measuring ingredients accurately can affect the outcome. Use a kitchen scale for precision, especially for oat flour.
• Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the bread while it’s still warm may cause it to crumble. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.
• Not mixing properly: Overmixing or undermixing the batter can impact texture. Mix until just combined to ensure a fluffy loaf.
• Using old baking powder or soda: Expired leavening agents won’t help your bread rise properly. Always check freshness before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.

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

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.

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

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F and wrap bread in foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 15-20 seconds, but be cautious not to dry it out.
• Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and toast slices for a few minutes on each side until warmed and slightly crispy.

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?

Yes, you can use almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour as alternatives, but this may slightly alter the texture.

How can I make this banana bread higher in protein?

Adding plant-based protein powder can boost the protein content without compromising flavor or texture.

What can I use instead of coconut sugar?

Brown sugar or maple sugar are great substitutes if you’re looking for alternatives that maintain sweetness.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

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

Final Thoughts

The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) is not only delicious but also versatile. It makes a perfect breakfast option or snack at any time of day. Feel free to customize it with nuts, seeds, or dried fruits according to your taste preferences!