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

Why You’ll Love The Best Healthy Banana Bread (Vegan & Gluten-Free)

• It’s completely vegan and gluten-free, yet incredibly moist and tender

• Naturally sweetened with coconut sugar and maple syrup

• Made with simple, wholesome ingredients

• Packed with warm cinnamon and nutmeg flavor

• Easy to prepare in just one bowl

• Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert

• Freezer-friendly and great for meal prep

• Customizable with your favorite mix-ins

Ingredients

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

3 ripe bananas (= 1 ½ cups mashed banana)
⅓ cup coconut sugar
¼ cup maple syrup
¼ cup non-dairy milk
3 tablespoons coconut oil (melted)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
2 cups oat flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
2 teaspoons cinnamon
½ teaspoon nutmeg
½ teaspoon salt
⅓ cup vegan chocolate chips (plus more for topping)
¼ cup walnuts (chopped)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. 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 fully combined.

3. Add the oat flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and vegan chocolate chips. Mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.

4. Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle additional vegan chocolate chips and chopped walnuts on top if desired.

5. Bake for 60–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Remove from the oven and allow the bread to rest in the pan for 15 minutes. Carefully transfer it to a wire rack and let it cool completely before slicing. This step ensures the perfect texture.

Servings and timing

Servings: 10 slices

Preparation time: 10–15 minutes
Baking time: 60–65 minutes
Total time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Make it nut-free by omitting the walnuts.

• Swap chocolate chips for blueberries for a fruity twist.

• Add 1–2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed for extra fiber.

• Stir in shredded coconut for added texture.

• Use pecans instead of walnuts for a richer flavor.

• Add a swirl of almond or peanut butter through the batter before baking.

Storage/Reheating

Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer a longer shelf life, refrigerate it for up to 1 week.

To freeze, slice the bread and wrap individual pieces tightly. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or warm gently in the microwave for 20–30 seconds.

For reheating, warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds or toast lightly in a toaster oven for a slightly crisp edge.

FAQs

Can I make this banana bread oil-free?

Yes, you can replace the melted coconut oil with unsweetened applesauce. The texture may be slightly softer but still delicious.

Can I use almond flour instead of oat flour?

Almond flour behaves differently and may result in a denser loaf. For best results, stick with oat flour or use a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The bananas should be very ripe with plenty of brown spots. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be.

Can I make this recipe without chocolate chips?

Absolutely. You can omit them entirely or replace them with dried fruit or nuts.

Why is apple cider vinegar used?

Apple cider vinegar reacts with baking soda to help the bread rise and become fluffy.

Can I turn this into muffins?

Yes. Divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for about 20–25 minutes.

How do I know when the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, it’s ready.

Can I reduce the sweetness?

Yes, you can slightly reduce the maple syrup or coconut sugar, but keep in mind this may affect texture and moisture.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Yes, it’s naturally sweet and soft, making it a great option for kids and adults alike.

What non-dairy milk works best?

Any unsweetened non-dairy milk works well, such as almond, oat, soy, or cashew milk.

Conclusion

This healthy vegan and gluten-free banana bread proves that wholesome baking can be just as satisfying as traditional recipes. With its moist crumb, natural sweetness, and cozy spice blend, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven or saved for later, each slice delivers comforting flavor in a nourishing package.