The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) is the ultimate comfort food that combines wholesome ingredients with rich flavors. It’s moist, delicious, and incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking for a healthier alternative to traditional banana bread, this recipe will become a go-to in your kitchen. With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the added joy of chocolate chips and walnuts, every slice promises to delight. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (≈ 1 ½ cups mashed banana)
- ⅓ cup coconut sugar (≈ 67 g)
- ¼ cup maple syrup (≈ 60 ml)
- ¼ cup non-dairy milk (≈ 60 ml)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract (≈ 10 ml)
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar (≈ 5 ml)
- 3 tbsp coconut oil (melted) (≈ 45 ml)
- 2 cups oat flour (≈ 200 g)
- 1 tsp baking powder (≈ 5 g)
- 1 tsp baking soda (≈ 5 g)
- 2 tsp cinnamon (≈ 5 g)
- ½ tsp nutmeg (≈ 2 g)
- ½ tsp salt (≈ 3 g)
- ⅓ cup vegan chocolate chips (≈ 60 g) (plus more for topping)
- ¼ cup walnuts (chopped) (≈ 30 g)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×5 inch (23 × 13 cm) loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, coconut sugar, maple syrup, non-dairy milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar until combined.
- Gradually mix in the oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vegan chocolate chips until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and top with additional vegan chocolate chips and chopped walnuts, if desired.
- Bake for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it sit in the pan for 15 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is crucial for the perfect texture!
- Once cool, slice and serve.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60-65 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15-80 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Nutrition Info (per slice): Approximately 180 calories, 5g protein, 25g carbohydrates, 7g fat
How to serve
Enjoy The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free) warm or at room temperature. A spread of almond butter or a dollop of coconut yogurt pairs beautifully with the moistness of the bread. For an indulgent treat, serve slices with a drizzle of maple syrup or a sprinkle of extra chocolate chips. This banana bread is also an excellent choice for breakfast alongside your favorite non-dairy coffee or tea. You can store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
FAQs
Can I substitute oat flour?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend if you don’t have oat flour on hand. Just keep in mind that the texture might vary slightly.
How can I make this recipe nut-free?
You can skip the walnuts or replace them with seeds such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds for added texture without the nuts.
Can I freeze this banana bread?
Absolutely! You can freeze slices or the whole loaf. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!