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

This is the best healthy banana bread (vegan & gluten-free) you’ll ever eat! Made with oat flour and naturally sweetened with coconut sugar, this delightful loaf is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Its moist and fluffy texture will have everyone asking for seconds. Plus, it’s versatile enough for any occasion, from a cozy family gathering to a quick on-the-go treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The natural sweetness of bananas combined with coconut sugar creates an irresistible taste.
• Easy to Make: With simple steps and common ingredients, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to prepare.
• Healthy Ingredients: Enjoy a guilt-free treat made with wholesome components like oat flour and non-dairy milk.
• Perfectly Fluffy: Thanks to the careful balance of ingredients, this banana bread has a wonderfully soft texture.
• Customizable: Add your favorite nuts or chocolate chips for an extra touch of flavor!

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes all the difference in your baking experience. Here’s what you’ll need to create this amazing banana bread.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf pan: This ensures your banana bread bakes evenly and maintains its shape.
• Mixing bowls: Having a good set of bowls helps in combining ingredients without spills or mess.
• Whisk: A whisk allows for smooth blending of wet ingredients, ensuring they incorporate well.

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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 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 and 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 until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually mix in:
1. Oat flour
2. Baking powder
3. Baking soda
4. Cinnamon
5. Nutmeg
6. Salt
7. Vegan chocolate chips until just combined.

Step 4: Prepare for Baking

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and 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 into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool Before Serving

Once baked, remove from the oven and allow it to sit in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your deliciously healthy banana bread!

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

Serving banana bread is a delightful experience, and there are many ways to enjoy this delicious treat. Whether you prefer it plain or dressed up with toppings, here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your banana bread game.

Toasted with Nut Butter

• Spread your favorite nut butter, like almond or peanut butter, on warm slices for extra protein and creaminess.

With Fresh Fruit

• Top banana bread with slices of fresh strawberries, blueberries, or banana for a burst of flavor and added nutrients.

Served with Dairy-Free Yogurt

• Pair a slice with dairy-free yogurt for a creamy contrast. This adds a refreshing element that balances the sweetness of the bread.

Drizzled with Maple Syrup

• A light drizzle of maple syrup can enhance the sweetness without overpowering the natural flavor of the bananas.

As a Dessert Sandwich

• Create a dessert sandwich by adding a layer of non-dairy chocolate spread between two slices. It’s an indulgent treat!

Warmed in the Microwave

• For a cozy snack, warm up a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This brings out the flavors and makes it even more comforting.

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

Perfecting your banana bread takes just a few handy tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your banana bread turns out moist and delicious every time.

• Use Overripe Bananas: The sweeter and riper the bananas, the better! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum flavor.
• Measure Oat Flour Correctly: Spoon the oat flour into your measuring cup instead of scooping it directly from the bag. This prevents packing and ensures accurate measurements.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently mix until ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• Check for Doneness Early: Ovens vary, so start checking your bread around 55 minutes to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Before Slicing: Allow the banana bread to cool completely before slicing. This helps maintain its structure and moisture.

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

Pairing side dishes with banana bread can enhance your meal or snack. Here are some tasty options that complement its sweetness beautifully.

1. Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits pairs well with banana bread and adds vibrant colors and flavors.
2. Chia Seed Pudding – Creamy chia pudding provides extra fiber and protein, making it a nutritious complement.
3. Green Smoothie – A nutrient-packed green smoothie balances the sweetness while providing vitamins and minerals.
4. Coconut Yogurt Parfait – Layer coconut yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful contrast in textures.
5. Avocado Toast – Savory avocado toast offers a healthy fat option that complements the sweetness of banana bread well.
6. Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal topped with nuts or fruit creates a hearty breakfast alongside banana bread.
7. Granola Bars – Homemade or store-bought granola bars make for great snacks that pair perfectly when you’re on-the-go.
8. Nut Trail Mix – A handful of mixed nuts provides crunch and healthy fats that balance out sweet bites of banana bread.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding mistakes can make a big difference in your baking. Here are some common errors to watch out for when making The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free).

• Using Overripe Bananas: While it might seem counterintuitive, using bananas that are too ripe can make your bread overly mushy. Aim for ripe but not overly brown bananas for the best texture.
• Skipping the Apple Cider Vinegar: This ingredient helps activate the baking soda, promoting a nice rise. Don’t skip it; it’s key for fluffy banana bread!
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science! Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure your ingredients are precise for optimal results.
• Opening the Oven Door Too Soon: This can cause your bread to collapse. Wait until at least 50 minutes into baking before checking doneness with a toothpick.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Removing the bread from the pan too early can lead to sogginess. Let it cool in the pan for 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

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

• Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

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

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, wrap in foil, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free), you’re not alone! Here are some common queries.

Can I use other gluten-free flours?

Yes, you can substitute oat flour with almond flour or a gluten-free all-purpose blend. However, this may affect the texture slightly.

How do I make this banana bread nut-free?

You can simply omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds like sunflower seeds for added crunch without nuts.

How do I know when my banana bread is done?

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

Can I add other flavors to my banana bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to add spices like ginger or cardamom or mix in nuts and dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.

What makes this banana bread healthy?

This recipe uses natural sweeteners like coconut sugar and maple syrup, along with oat flour, making it both nutritious and delicious!

Final Thoughts

The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different spices, nuts, or chocolate chips according to your taste. Perfect as a snack or breakfast treat, we encourage you to give this recipe a try!