Hey y’all! Are you searching for the perfect treat that’s sweet yet healthy, incredibly moist, and just happens to be both vegan and gluten-free? Look no further! This is the best healthy banana bread recipe—deliciously tender, bursting with ripe banana flavor, and wholesome enough for breakfast or an anytime snack. Whether you have dietary restrictions or simply crave a guilt-free baked good, this loaf is sure to impress. Let’s get cooking!

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

Why You’ll Love This Healthy banana bread

Super moist, tender crumb that tastes just like classic banana bread.
Made with simple, wholesome ingredients—no weird additives here!
Vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly so everyone can enjoy a slice.
Perfect for breakfast, snacks, dessert, or brunch gatherings.
Easily customizable with your favorite add-ins.

Ingredients

3 large ripe bananas (about 1 1/4 cups mashed)
1/4 cup melted coconut oil (or other neutral oil)
1/3 cup pure maple syrup
1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend
1/2 cup almond flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp fine sea salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts or vegan chocolate chips (optional)

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

Step 1: Prep Work

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher until smooth but slightly chunky.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients

Add melted coconut oil, maple syrup, plant-based milk, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk until well combined.

Step 4: Whisk Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour blend, almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—some small lumps are okay!
If using nuts or chocolate chips, gently stir them in now.

Step 6: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Step 7: Cool & Serve

Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 55 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Notes

Use spotty, overripe bananas for the sweetest and moistest bread.
If your gluten-free flour blend doesn’t contain xanthan gum, add 1/2 tsp for better structure.
Don’t skip letting the loaf cool—it helps set the bread for easy slicing!

Variations

Blueberry Banana Bread: Fold in 1/2 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries.
Nut-Free Version: Omit almond flour and walnuts; substitute oat flour for almond flour and use seeds instead of nuts.
Chocolate Lover’s Banana Bread: Add 1/3 cup cocoa powder and swirl in extra chocolate chips.

Required Equipment

9×5-inch loaf pan
Mixing bowls
Whisk and spatula
Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
Potato masher or fork

Storage Instructions

Store completely cooled banana bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature or briefly toast before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy slices plain, slathered with vegan butter or nut butter.
Pair with a hot cup of coffee, tea, or a smoothie for breakfast.
Top with fresh berries or coconut yogurt for a wholesome dessert.

Pro Tips for the Best Healthy Banana Bread

Don’t overmix the batter; it keeps the crumb soft and prevents gumminess.
Bake in the center of the oven for the most even rise and golden crust.
Use an oven thermometer to ensure accurate baking temperatures, especially for gluten-free baking.

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

Can I use another sweetener instead of maple syrup?

Yes! You can substitute agave syrup, coconut nectar, or a similar liquid sweetener in equal amounts.

Can I use just oat flour instead of the blend?

Oat flour alone can make the bread denser, but if you try it, use 2 cups total and add 1/2 tsp xanthan gum for lift.

Do I need to refrigerate vegan banana bread?

If you plan to eat it within two days, room temperature is fine. For longer freshness, refrigerate or freeze as suggested above.

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

Why You’ll Love This Healthy banana bread

Ingredients