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

Why Make This Recipe

Banana bread is a classic treat that everyone loves! This healthy version is not only delicious, but it is also vegan and gluten-free. It’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Plus, using ripe bananas adds natural sweetness, making it a wholesome choice for those looking to enjoy a guilt-free indulgence.

How to Make The Best Healthy Banana Bread

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas (about 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)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, coconut sugar, maple syrup, non-dairy milk, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and apple cider vinegar until everything is well combined.
3. Next, mix in the oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vegan chocolate chips until just combined.
4. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan. Top with more vegan chocolate chips and chopped walnuts if you like.
5. Bake the banana bread for 60-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it sit in the pan for about 15 minutes. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Remember, it’s tempting to slice it right away, but waiting is important!
7. Once cool, slice the banana bread and serve!

How to Serve The Best Healthy Banana Bread

You can enjoy this banana bread on its own, or spread some nut butter on top for an extra treat. It’s great for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as a mid-afternoon snack. You can also serve it warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream for a delightful dessert.

How to Store The Best Healthy Banana Bread

Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it. Slice the bread and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Tips to Make The Best Healthy Banana Bread

• Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best natural sweetness.
• Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a fluffier texture.
• If you don’t have oat flour, you can make your own by blending rolled oats until fine.
• Feel free to customize the add-ins with nuts, seeds, or dried fruits according to your preference.

Variation

For a fun twist, try adding different spices like ginger or cardamom. You can also swap out the chocolate chips for dried fruit like raisins or cranberries for a fruity flavor.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular flour instead of oat flour?
   Yes, you can use regular all-purpose flour, but this will change the recipe to not be gluten-free.

2. How do I know when the banana bread is done?
   It’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs sticking to it.

3. Can I make this banana bread without added sugar?
   Yes, you can omit the coconut sugar or reduce the amount, but the bread may be less sweet. The ripe bananas provide a lot of natural sweetness.