Vegan Banana Bread: Moist, Sweet, and Totally Gluten-Free Perfection

This vegan and gluten-free twist on the classic recipe is proof that indulgence can be both comforting and mindful. With its moist texture and natural sweetness, it’s the perfect way to transform ripe bananas into a treat everyone will love.

Ingredients Breakdown: What Makes This Vegan Banana Bread So Special

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a key role in creating the perfect vegan and gluten-free banana bread. Here’s why each one matters:

• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed or chia seeds: These act as an egg substitute, binding the ingredients together while adding a boost of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
• 5 tablespoons water (for the flaxseed or chia): Combined with the seeds, this creates a gel-like texture known as a "flax egg" or "chia egg," perfect for vegan baking.
• 1/3 cup coconut oil or vegan butter, melted: Adds richness and moisture to the bread, ensuring a tender crumb. Coconut oil brings a subtle nutty flavor, while vegan butter adds a more buttery profile.
• 3/4 cup coconut sugar: A natural sweetener that gives the bread a hint of caramel-like flavor. Plus, it’s a great alternative to refined sugar.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: This leavening agent reacts with the acidity in the bananas to make your bread light and fluffy.
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Adds a warm, sweet aroma that enhances the banana flavor. Always choose pure vanilla extract for the best results.
• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum: The base of the bread, this flour ensures a gluten-free result without compromising texture. If your mix doesn’t include xanthan gum, it’s essential to add a pinch for structure.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances all the flavors in the bread and balances the sweetness perfectly.
• 2 very ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient! Overripe bananas add natural sweetness, a creamy texture, and an intense banana flavor.

By using these carefully chosen ingredients, you’ll create a loaf that’s soft, flavorful, and entirely plant-based. Every bite will be packed with wholesome goodness and indulgent flavor!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these detailed instructions to create a loaf of moist and flavorful vegan banana bread. Each step is designed to make the process simple and enjoyable:

1. Prepare your oven and pan
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) for even baking.
   • Grease a 4x8-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray, or line it with parchment paper to ensure effortless removal and cleanup.
2. Create the flax or chia egg
   • In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 5 tablespoons of water.
   • Let the mixture sit for 5–10 minutes until it thickens into a gel-like consistency, which will act as your egg substitute.
3. Mash the bananas
   • In a large bowl, mash 2 very ripe bananas with a fork or potato masher until smooth and creamy. This will give your bread its rich banana flavor and moisture.
4. Add baking soda
   • Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of baking soda evenly over the mashed bananas. Mix well to activate the baking soda with the banana’s natural acidity.
5. Incorporate the melted fat
   • Stir in 1/3 cup of melted coconut oil or vegan butter, ensuring it combines thoroughly with the banana mixture for a smooth batter.
6. Mix in the wet ingredients
   • Add 3/4 cup of coconut sugar, a pinch of salt, the prepared flax or chia egg, and 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract. Stir until everything is fully blended, creating a fragrant, sweet base.
7. Add the dry ingredients
   • Gradually fold in 1 1/2 cups of gluten-free all-purpose flour. If your flour blend doesn’t include xanthan gum, add 1/4 teaspoon to ensure the bread holds its shape. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender.
8. Prepare to bake
   • Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it out evenly for uniform baking.
9. Bake to perfection
   • Place the pan on the center rack and bake for 50–60 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. Keep an eye on the bread, as baking times can vary depending on your oven.
10. Cool and serve
    • Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean cuts and the best texture.

With these straightforward steps, you’ll bake a loaf of vegan banana bread that’s irresistible. Each slice is packed with wholesome ingredients and the perfect balance of sweetness and flavor!