Banana bread is a beloved treat enjoyed by many people around the globe. It is moist, sweet, and packed with flavor and nutrition. Our version of banana bread is unique because it is healthy, vegan, and gluten-free. This means you can enjoy it even if you have dietary restrictions. With the sweetness of ripe bananas, the rich taste of coconut sugar and maple syrup, and the delightful crunch of walnuts, this banana bread recipe is sure to impress.
This delicious loaf is perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. It’s easy to make, using simple ingredients you might already have at home. Best of all, you can feel good about enjoying a slice (or two!) as it is made with wholesome ingredients that nourish your body.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to make this healthy banana bread. First and foremost, it is made using simple, natural ingredients. By using ripe bananas as the main sweetener, you avoid the need for refined sugars. The bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, making the bread light and fluffy.
This banana bread is also vegan, which means it is free from any animal products. This makes it suitable for people following a plant-based diet or anyone looking to reduce their animal product intake. Besides being vegan, it is gluten-free as it uses oat flour instead of traditional wheat flour. This is great for those who have gluten intolerances or sensitivities.
Another fantastic aspect of this banana bread is its versatility. You can customize it to your taste preferences by adding in different mix-ins like nuts, seeds, or dried fruits. The addition of vegan chocolate chips and walnuts in this recipe only adds to the rich flavor and texture.
Moreover, this recipe is straightforward to follow, making it perfect for beginner bakers. Whether you’re new to baking or a seasoned pro, you’ll find joy in making this healthy version of banana bread. It also fills your kitchen with a delightful aroma as it bakes, making it hard to resist grabbing a slice fresh out of the oven!
How to Make The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)
Making this banana bread is simple and takes just a few steps. Follow the directions closely for the best results.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (approximately 1 ½ cups when mashed)
- 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 extra for topping)
- ¼ cup walnuts (chopped)
Directions
Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Make sure your oven is hot enough so the banana bread rises beautifully.
Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- This helps to prevent the bread from sticking to the pan. It also makes it easier to remove the bread once it is finished baking.
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Use a fork or a potato masher. The more ripe your bananas are, the easier they will mash, and the sweeter your bread will be.
Add coconut sugar, maple syrup, non-dairy milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until well combined.
- This step combines all your wet ingredients with the bananas, creating a sweet and flavorful base.
Mix in oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vegan chocolate chips. Stir until just combined.
- Take care not to overmix; this keeps the bread light and fluffy.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips and walnuts on top if desired.
- This extra touch adds a crunchy topping that makes the loaf even more delicious.
Bake for about 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven, so keep an eye on your bread.
Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
- Allowing the bread to cool helps it set properly and makes slicing easier.
How to Serve The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)
This banana bread can be served in many delightful ways. Here are some tasty suggestions:
- Slice and Eat Alone: Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or at room temperature. Each slice is perfectly moist and flavorful.
- With Nut Butter: Spread a thin layer of almond or peanut butter on top of the slices for added protein and creaminess.
- With Vegan Cream Cheese: A nice spread of vegan cream cheese can complement the banana flavors wonderfully.
- Toast It: If you like a little crispness, toast your slice before serving. It adds a delightful texture.
- Pair with Fruit: Fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or bananas on the side, makes a lovely accompaniment.
You can also serve it as a part of a brunch spread or as a snack when hosting friends and family. It is a great option for a healthy dessert, too!
How to Store The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)
Storing your banana bread properly will keep it fresh for longer. Here are some simple storage tips:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the banana bread within a few days, you can store it at room temperature. Wrap it in foil or place it in an airtight container. This will keep it soft and moist.
Refrigerator: If you want to keep it for up to a week, store it in the fridge. Make sure it is wrapped well to prevent it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the banana bread. Slice it first, and then wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can take out one slice at a time whenever you crave a sweet treat!
When you are ready to eat frozen banana bread, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or toast it directly from frozen for a warm snack.
Tips to Make The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)
To ensure your banana bread turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:
Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with dark spots or ones that are fully brown.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to dense and heavy bread.
Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the bread is done. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready to come out of the oven.
Add Extra Mix-ins: Feel free to experiment with other additions, like dried fruit or seeds, to customize the flavor.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter bread, you can add a bit more coconut sugar or maple syrup according to your taste.
Variation
While this banana bread recipe is fantastic as-is, there are many ways to mix it up. Here are a few variations:
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Double the amount of chocolate chips for a richer chocolate flavor.
Nut-Free Option: Omit the walnuts, or substitute them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.
Add Fruits: Incorporate chopped apples, berries, or even shredded carrots for added nutrition and flavor.
Different Spices: Experiment with ginger or cardamom to give an earthy flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I make this banana bread without walnuts?
Yes, you can omit the walnuts or replace them with seeds or other nuts if you prefer.
2. Is this banana bread suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! Slice the bread, wrap, and store it in the freezer. It stays fresh for about three months.
3. What type of non-dairy milk can I use?
You can use any non-dairy milk like almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or coconut milk. Choose the one you like best!
Making The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) is an enjoyable and fulfilling experience. Each slice brings comfort and satisfaction, all while being nourishing. Your friends and family will love it, and you’ll feel proud to share something homemade and healthy! Enjoy your baking!
Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
- Add coconut sugar, maple syrup, non-dairy milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar. Whisk until well combined.
- Mix in oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vegan chocolate chips. Stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle extra chocolate chips and walnuts on top if desired.
- Bake for about 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.