Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Bread

When it comes to indulgent, comforting treats, few things can compare to a warm slice of banana bread. This Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Bread is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to make. With its moist texture and rich banana flavor, it’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. Plus, it’s packed with wholesome ingredients that make it a guilt-free delight. Let’s dive into why this recipe has become my go-to and how you can easily whip it up in your own kitchen!

Why It’s My Go-To

This Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Bread is my all-time favorite because it combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a hint of cinnamon and the nutritional benefits of protein powder. It’s a great way to use up overripe bananas, and it fills the kitchen with a heavenly aroma while baking. The best part? It’s versatile! You can enjoy it plain, add nuts, or even swirl in some dairy-free chocolate chips for an extra treat. Whether you follow a vegan lifestyle, have gluten sensitivities, or are simply looking for a wholesome snack, this recipe ticks all the boxes.

Shopping List

• 3 cups oat flour (gluten-free if needed) – 324 grams
• 1/4 cup dairy-free vanilla protein powder – 30 grams
• 1 1/2 teaspoons vegan xanthan gum
• 4 teaspoons cinnamon
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/4 cups mashed ripe banana – 540 grams or about 4-5 large bananas
• 1 cup coconut sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened vanilla almond milk
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 3 tablespoons coconut oil, melted (plus extra for greasing the pan)
• 6 tablespoons water
• 6 teaspoons baking powder

Equipment at a Glance

• Mixing bowls – for combining the dry and wet ingredients.
• Whisk – to blend the ingredients smoothly.
• Loaf pan – for baking the banana bread.
• Spatula – for scraping down the sides and mixing.
• Oven – to bake the banana bread to perfection.

From Start to Finish: Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your banana bread bakes evenly and rises beautifully.

Step 2: Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Grease a standard loaf pan with a bit of melted coconut oil to prevent sticking. Set it aside for later.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the oat flour, dairy-free vanilla protein powder, xanthan gum, cinnamon, salt, and baking powder. Make sure everything is well combined to avoid any clumps.

Step 4: Mash the Bananas

In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You can leave a few small chunks for added texture if you like.

Step 5: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add the coconut sugar, almond milk, vanilla extract, melted coconut oil, and water to the mashed bananas. Mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the bread dense.

Step 7: Pour into the Loaf Pan

Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. You can sprinkle some extra cinnamon on top for a lovely finish.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly crackled.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your delicious Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Bread!

Quick Replacement Ideas

• If you don’t have almond milk, you can use any other plant-based milk, such as soy or oat milk.
• For coconut sugar, brown sugar or maple sugar can be used as alternatives.
• In place of the dairy-free protein powder, you can skip it or replace it with additional oat flour.
• If you want a nutty flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.

Problems & Prevention

Baking is a science, and sometimes things can go awry. Here are some common issues and how to prevent them:

• Dense Bread: Make sure your baking powder is fresh and properly mixed with the dry ingredients to ensure a good rise.
• Dry Texture: Avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a tough texture. Also, make sure your bananas are very ripe for maximum moisture.
• Burnt Edges: If the edges are browning too quickly, consider covering the loaf with aluminum foil halfway through baking.
• Sticking to the Pan: Ensure you grease your loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

To store your Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Bread, follow these tips:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to one week in the fridge.
• Freeze: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: To reheat, simply microwave a slice for about 20-30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F for 5-10 minutes.

Troubleshooting Q&A

Why is my banana bread not rising?

This could be due to expired baking powder or not mixing the dry ingredients properly with the wet. Ensure all ingredients are fresh and well combined.

How can I make my banana bread sweeter?

If you prefer a sweeter loaf, you can increase the amount of coconut sugar or add a touch of maple syrup or agave nectar to the batter.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in some walnuts, pecans, or dairy-free chocolate chips right before pouring the batter into the pan for added texture and flavor.

What if I don’t have xanthan gum?

If you don’t have xanthan gum, you can substitute it with ground chia seeds or flaxseeds mixed with water to create a gel-like consistency. This will help bind the ingredients together.

Quick Weeknight Wins

• Banana Bread With Walnuts – A delightful twist on the classic recipe.
• Easy Banana Bread Recipe – Perfect for those busy evenings when you need something quick!

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Bread is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavor and texture, embodying the best of what plant-based baking has to offer. The combination of oat flour and ripe bananas creates a moist and satisfying loaf that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy it fresh out of the oven or toasted with a bit of almond butter, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Happy baking!