Banana bread is a beloved classic, but finding a version that is both vegan and gluten-free while remaining light and fluffy can be a challenge. Whether you’re avoiding animal products, gluten, or simply looking for a healthier treat, this banana bread recipe ticks all the boxes.
It uses wholesome ingredients that create a moist, tender crumb with just the right hint of sweetness. Plus, it’s easy to whip up in your kitchen with everyday pantry staples.
The best part? You don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture to enjoy a slice of this delightful loaf.
This recipe is perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a guilt-free dessert. If you love exploring creative vegan baking, you might also enjoy our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.
Let’s dive into why this banana bread stands out, and how you can make it your new favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This banana bread recipe is a game-changer for several reasons. First, it’s vegan and gluten-free, catering to many dietary restrictions without any compromise on taste.
The use of ripe bananas adds natural sweetness and moisture, eliminating the need for refined sugars or oils.
Secondly, the loaf is incredibly light and airy, unlike some dense gluten-free breads that can feel heavy or crumbly. Thanks to the combination of gluten-free flours and baking soda, this bread rises beautifully and has a soft texture that melts in your mouth.
Finally, it’s versatile and easy to customize with your favorite mix-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit. This recipe is perfect for both beginner and seasoned bakers looking for a wholesome, delicious treat that everyone can enjoy.
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|
Ripe Bananas | 3 medium | Mashed, for natural sweetness and moisture |
Gluten-Free All-Purpose Flour | 1 ¾ cups (210g) | Ensure it contains xanthan gum or add 1 tsp separately |
Almond Flour | ½ cup (50g) | Adds moisture and a tender crumb |
Baking Soda | 1 tsp | Leavening agent for rise |
Baking Powder | 1 tsp | Helps with light texture |
Ground Flaxseed | 2 tbsp | Mixed with water to make flax egg |
Water | 6 tbsp | For flax egg |
Maple Syrup | ¼ cup (60ml) | Natural sweetener |
Unsweetened Almond Milk | ½ cup (120ml) | Or any plant-based milk |
Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp | For flavor |
Cinnamon | 1 tsp | Optional, adds warmth |
Salt | ½ tsp | Enhances flavors |
Chopped Walnuts or Pecans | ½ cup (optional) | For crunch and texture |
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Fork or potato masher (for mashing bananas)
- Whisk or spoon (for mixing flax egg)
- Loaf pan (8×4 inches recommended)
- Parchment paper or non-stick spray
- Oven
- Cooling rack
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line your loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it to prevent sticking.
- Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp ground flaxseed with 6 tbsp water. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to an egg-like consistency.
- Mash the bananas: Use a fork or potato masher to mash the 3 ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl until mostly smooth with a few small lumps remaining for texture.
- Mix wet ingredients: Add the thickened flax egg, ¼ cup maple syrup, ½ cup almond milk, and 1 tsp vanilla extract to the mashed bananas. Whisk or stir until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups gluten-free flour, ½ cup almond flour, 1 tsp baking soda, 1 tsp baking powder, 1 tsp cinnamon (if using), and ½ tsp salt.
- Incorporate dry into wet: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined – do not overmix, or the bread may become dense.
- Add nuts: Fold in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans if desired for extra crunch and flavor.
- Pour batter into pan: Transfer the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. Start checking at 50 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool completely: Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling.
Tips & Variations
Tip: For perfectly ripe bananas, peel and freeze them ahead of time. Thaw before mashing for extra sweetness and moisture.
If you want to add a twist, try mixing in some vegan chocolate chips or dried cranberries for bursts of flavor. For a nut-free version, simply omit the nuts or replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
Looking for even lighter bread? You can substitute half the almond flour with oat flour made from gluten-free oats ground in a blender.
Just be sure your oat flour is certified gluten-free if you are sensitive.
For a more decadent loaf, add a swirl of natural peanut butter or almond butter before baking. This adds richness and pairs wonderfully with the banana flavor.
Want more wholesome vegan baked goods? Check out our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or the Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes for more inspiration.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount (per slice) | % Daily Value* |
---|---|---|
Calories | 180 | 9% |
Fat | 7g | 11% |
Saturated Fat | 0.6g | 3% |
Carbohydrates | 27g | 9% |
Fiber | 4g | 16% |
Sugars | 9g | — |
Protein | 4g | 8% |
Sodium | 210mg | 9% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Serving Suggestions
This banana bread is delicious on its own or served warm with a smear of vegan butter or nut butter. For a special treat, top it with a dollop of coconut whipped cream or your favorite fruit compote.
Pair your slice with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or herbal tea for a cozy snack or breakfast. It also makes a great base for a healthy dessert when served alongside vegan vanilla ice cream or topped with a drizzle of maple syrup.
If you’re looking to expand your vegan baking repertoire, be sure to visit our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for another fantastic bread option.
Conclusion
Making the best vegan, gluten-free, and light banana bread is easier than you think. This recipe brings together nutritious ingredients that create a loaf bursting with flavor and perfect texture.
It’s a wonderful way to use up ripe bananas and enjoy a wholesome treat any time of day.
Whether you’re new to vegan baking or a seasoned pro, this banana bread will become a staple in your kitchen. Its adaptability means you can tweak it to your taste with nuts, spices, or other mix-ins.
Plus, it pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages and toppings.
Don’t forget to explore other delicious plant-based recipes on our site like Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating or Soy Free Vegan Recipes for Delicious Plant-Based Meals to keep your menu exciting and nutritious!
📖 Recipe Card: Banana Bread Recipe Best Vegan Gluten Free Light
Description: A moist and fluffy vegan gluten-free banana bread that's light and easy to make. Perfect for a healthy snack or breakfast treat.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT50M
Total Time: PT65M
Servings: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free oat flour
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix mashed bananas, maple syrup, coconut oil, almond milk, and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together oat flour, almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients and stir until just mixed.
- Fold in chopped walnuts if using.
- Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan.
- Bake for 50 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cool before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 180 kcal | Protein: 3 g | Fat: 9 g | Carbs: 24 g
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