Easy Moist Gluten Free Vegan Banana Bread You’ll Love

If you’re craving a moist, fluffy banana bread that’s both vegan and gluten free, this recipe is for you. Made with simple pantry ingredients in just one bowl, it’s a perfect choice whether you’re new to gluten free baking or just want a healthy, tasty treat.

You won’t even notice that it’s free of eggs, dairy, and gluten yet full of rich banana flavor and a soft crumb. Let’s dive into what makes this recipe special and effortless.

Why You’ll Love This Gluten Free Vegan Banana Bread

This banana bread ticks all the boxes for a crowd-pleaser: It’s incredibly moist and fluffy thanks to perfectly ripe bananas and the right gluten free flour blend. The recipe requires minimal equipment — just one bowl and a spoon — which means easy cleanup.

It’s vegan and gluten free, making it accessible if you have dietary restrictions or want a plant-based option. Plus, it uses common ingredients you likely already have, so no need for fancy or hard-to-find items.

Lastly, you can customize with add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to suit your taste.

Key Ingredients and What Makes Them Work

• Ripe Bananas: The star of the show, ripe bananas with brown spots are sweetest and provide natural moisture and binding. Freezing overripe bananas is a great hack to always have them ready.
• Gluten Free 1:1 Flour: Use a high-quality blend with xanthan gum included, such as Bob’s Red Mill 1:1 or King Arthur Measure for Measure. This ensures the best texture and rise without added ingredients.
• Vegan Butter or Coconut Oil: Both add moisture and richness. Coconut oil may add a subtle tropical note.
• Granulated Sugar: Cane sugar or coconut sugar work well here. Avoid liquid sweeteners like maple syrup in this recipe as they can affect the crumb structure.
• Plant Milk: Soy milk is recommended for best results, but any plant milk like almond, oat, or cashew can be used.
• Leavening Agents and Salt: Baking powder and baking soda help the bread rise, while salt enhances flavor.

Including a balance of these ingredients creates a delicate crumb that’s soft but not gummy.

Step-by-Step How to Make Your Banana Bread

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your loaf pan with a little vegan butter or oil.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash about 1 1/2 cups of ripe bananas until smooth. Measure carefully for consistent moisture.
3. Stir in melted vegan butter, granulated sugar, and plant milk until combined.
4. Add in the gluten free flour and sprinkle the baking powder, baking soda, and salt on top. Then gently stir with a spoon until just combined — overmixing will make the bread dense.
5. Fold in any optional add-ins like chopped walnuts or dairy free chocolate chips.
6. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top.
7. Bake on the middle rack for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack to cool completely. Wait at least 30 minutes before slicing for best texture.

Expert Tips for the Best Gluten Free Banana Bread

• Add-ins: Spice up your loaf with cinnamon, nutmeg, chocolate chips, shredded coconut, raisins, or nuts folded into the batter. If you enjoy simple baked goods, you might also love this easy vegan blueberry coffee cake.
• Toppings: Press sliced banana, extra chocolate chips, oats or seeds on top of the batter before baking for added texture.
• Avoid Overmixing: Stir just until dry ingredients disappear to prevent tough bread.
• Oil-Free Version: You can experiment by substituting applesauce for vegan butter, but expect a slightly denser, moister crumb.
• Cooling: Patience is key! Slicing the bread too hot may cause crumbling.
• Measuring Tip: Use a kitchen scale for accuracy if possible; gluten free flours react differently if packed too tightly.

How to Make Banana Bread Muffins Instead

To make muffins, prepare the batter as you would for the loaf. Line a muffin tin with paper liners and fill each about 3/4 full.

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 to 25 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Muffins bake faster because of the smaller size, so keep an eye on them starting at 18 minutes.

These portable treats are perfect for on-the-go breakfasts or snacks. For another great grab-and-go option, try our vegan pumpkin chocolate chip cookies.

Storing and Freezing Tips for Freshness

Store your banana bread at room temperature covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container for 1 to 2 days. To extend freshness, keep it refrigerated for up to a week.

For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen slices at room temperature or warm gently in the oven or toaster oven for that freshly baked taste.

Frequently Asked Questions and Troubleshooting

Why is my banana bread dense or gummy?

This often happens from overmixing the batter or using too much liquid. Gluten free flours vary in absorption, so measuring accurately and mixing gently is crucial.

Can I substitute other flours like almond or coconut?

These flours have very different properties and absorb moisture differently, so they aren’t recommended without specific recipe adjustments.

Why do I need xanthan gum in gluten free flour?

Xanthan gum mimics gluten’s binding properties, helping the bread hold together and have the right texture.

Can I reduce the sugar or use maple syrup?

You can reduce sugar a bit or use coconut sugar. Maple syrup is liquid and may change the texture; if you try it, reduce other liquids and expect a denser crumb.

How ripe should my bananas be?

Very ripe with plenty of brown spots or even blackened skin is best. The sugar content is higher, and flavor richer.

Why is the top burning before the inside is cooked?

Your oven might run hot or the rack placement might be too high. Try lowering the heat 25°F or baking on the middle to lower rack.

Can I make this bread oil free?

You can swap vegan butter with applesauce, but expect a moister, denser bread. It’s not guaranteed and needs careful moisture balance.

Conclusion

This gluten free vegan banana bread recipe offers a delicious, simple way to enjoy a classic treat without gluten or animal products. With just one bowl and everyday ingredients, you can create a moist, fluffy loaf that suits many diets and tastes.

Customize it with your favorite add-ins or transform it into muffins for convenience. Armed with these tips and tricks, your baking success is almost guaranteed.

Happy baking!