Gluten free vegan banana nut bread is one of my favorite comfort bakes—and it’s packed with love and simplicity. I’m Helen from Easy Tasty Kitchen, and this recipe is inspired by the cozy, homemade flavors I grew up with. It’s moist, rich, and totally free of gluten, dairy, or eggs.
Whether you’re new to plant-based baking or looking for a healthier option, this gluten free vegan banana nut bread hits the mark every time. With clean ingredients like bananas, nuts, and applesauce, it’s a healthy banana bread vegan fans will love sharing.
Table of Contents
Gluten Free Vegan Banana Nut Bread
This gluten free vegan banana nut bread is moist, rich, and packed with the cozy, homemade flavors of ripe bananas, crunchy nuts, and applesauce—totally free of gluten, dairy, or eggs.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (8–10 slices) 1x
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Ingredients
- 3–4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups)
- ¼ to ⅓ cup unsweetened applesauce
- 1 ¾ cups gluten-free 1:1 flour blend with xanthan gum
- ⅓ cup plant-based milk
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ¼ tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon (optional)
- ¼ cup maple syrup or coconut sugar (optional, depending on banana sweetness)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease or line a loaf pan.
- Mash the bananas: In a large bowl, mash bananas until smooth.
- Mix wet ingredients: Add applesauce, plant milk, vanilla extract, and sweetener if using. Stir well.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix gluten-free flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Combine wet and dry: Combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed—do not overmix.
- Add nuts: Fold in chopped nuts.
- Pour into pan: Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake: Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool: Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Slice and enjoy!
Notes
Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture. Lightly toast nuts before adding for extra depth. Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
What Makes Gluten Free Vegan Banana Nut Bread So Special?
Gluten free vegan banana nut bread has become a go-to recipe for those seeking a healthier, allergy-friendly treat. It’s moist, naturally sweet, and packed with comforting banana flavor—without any gluten, dairy, or eggs.
Bananas add moisture and sweetness, while nuts bring a satisfying crunch. With simple swaps like applesauce and gluten-free flour, this healthy banana bread vegan version is easy to make and even easier to love.
Whether you need a quick breakfast or a cozy afternoon snack, gluten free vegan banana nut bread is the perfect option. It’s simple, nourishing, and full of flavor—just like home.
Key Ingredients for the Best Vegan Banana Bread Recipe
Gluten-Free Flour Options That Actually Work
Choosing the right flour is key to getting that perfect texture in gluten free vegan banana nut bread. Not all gluten-free flours behave the same, so picking one that mimics traditional flour is important. A quality 1:1 gluten-free baking blend with xanthan gum works best—it provides structure and helps hold the loaf together.
Here are a few great choices:
| Flour Type | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Gluten-free baking mix | Easiest substitute, already balanced |
| Oat flour (certified GF) | Mild flavor, whole grain nutrition |
| Almond flour (partial mix) | Adds richness and healthy fats |
| Rice flour (in blends) | Light texture, affordable |
For best results, avoid using just coconut or almond flour alone—they don’t bind well without additional starches.
The Role of Ripe Bananas, Applesauce, and Nuts
Bananas are the heart of any best vegan banana bread recipe. The riper, the better. Overripe bananas not only add sweetness but also help bind the batter, especially crucial in eggless baking.
Applesauce plays double duty as an egg replacement and moisture booster. It gives the bread a tender crumb without needing flaxseed or chia.
Chopped nuts—like walnuts or pecans—add texture and flavor depth. Plus, they offer a protein and omega-3 boost, making your healthy banana bread vegan version even more nutritious.
Pro tip: Lightly toast your nuts before folding them in to amplify their flavor.
How to Make Gluten Free Vegan Banana Nut Bread Moist and Flavorful
Balancing Wet and Dry Ingredients Without Flaxseed
One common struggle with gluten free vegan banana nut bread is getting the texture just right—especially without eggs or flaxseed. But here’s the good news: you can still achieve that moist, fluffy crumb with the right balance of ingredients.
Start with 3–4 ripe bananas. Their natural sugars and moisture help hold everything together. Combine that with applesauce, which acts as a soft, moisture-locking egg replacer. Skip the flaxseed and let these two powerhouse ingredients do the work.
Add your gluten-free flour blend gradually to avoid over-thickening the batter. Too much dry mix is often why banana bread turns out dry or dense.
Here’s a helpful ratio:
- 1 ½ cups mashed bananas
- ¼ to ⅓ cup applesauce
- 1 ¾ cups gluten-free flour blend
- ⅓ cup plant-based milk
- ½ cup chopped nuts
This combo results in a light, moist loaf—no flaxseed needed.
Using Applesauce for Texture and Natural Sweetness
If you’re going for a vegan banana bread without flaxseed, applesauce is your secret weapon. It adds gentle sweetness, helps the loaf stay moist longer, and acts as a natural binder.
Here’s why it works so well:
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Adds moisture | Keeps the bread soft without added oil |
| Binds ingredients | Replaces eggs or flaxseed |
| Adds subtle flavor | Boosts the banana taste naturally |
Using applesauce in your vegan banana bread gluten-free option also helps reduce fat and calories without sacrificing taste or texture—perfect if you’re aiming for a healthy banana bread vegan style.
Substitutes and Variations for Customizing Your Banana Bread
Vegan Banana Bread Without Flaxseed: Your Best Alternatives
If you’re avoiding flaxseed—either for allergies, texture preference, or convenience—you still have plenty of great options to keep your gluten free vegan banana nut bread moist and well-bound.
Here are the best flax-free swaps:
| Substitute | How to Use |
|---|---|
| Applesauce | ¼ cup per egg replacement, adds extra moisture |
| Mashed banana | Adds moisture and natural sweetness |
| Plain vegan yogurt | Provides creaminess and structure |
| Chia seeds (optional) | Similar to flax but more neutral taste |
Using banana bread with applesauce not only keeps the recipe plant-based but gives it that soft, tender texture without any gums or binders.
Adding Chocolate Chips, Spices, or Fruit for Flavor Boost
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try customizing your gluten free vegan banana nut bread to match your cravings or pantry ingredients. A few smart additions can completely change the flavor profile.
Here are some winning combos:
| Add-In | What It Adds |
|---|---|
| Dark chocolate chips | A sweet, indulgent bite in every slice |
| Cinnamon or nutmeg | Warm, comforting spice |
| Diced apples | Fresh texture and fruity twist |
| Dried cranberries | Tart contrast to the banana sweetness |
| Shredded coconut | Subtle chew and tropical vibes |
You can also go nut-free by using sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds for crunch without allergens.
Want a more unique, nutrient-rich variation?
Don’t miss our black bean banana bread—a creative way to add plant-based protein without altering the classic banana flavor.
Baking Tips for Perfect Gluten-Free Vegan Banana Nut Bread
To get your gluten free vegan banana nut bread just right, bake at 350°F for 50–60 minutes and always let it cool on a rack—this prevents a soggy bottom. Use a metal or glass loaf pan for even heat.
Worried about dryness? Add a bit more applesauce or mashed banana, and use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum. Don’t overmix—this keeps your loaf light and moist.
Nutritional Benefits of Healthy Banana Bread Vegan Style
High Fiber and Low Sugar Options
What makes gluten free vegan banana nut bread not just delicious, but nutritious, is its smart, whole-food ingredients. Ripe bananas offer natural sweetness, letting you cut down on added sugar. Using banana bread with applesauce adds moisture and fiber without oil or refined sweeteners.
Here’s a quick nutrition boost breakdown:
| Ingredient | Nutritional Benefit |
|---|---|
| Bananas | Potassium, vitamin B6, and fiber |
| Gluten-free oats | Soluble fiber, great for digestion |
| Applesauce | Low in fat, rich in antioxidants |
| Nuts (walnuts) | Healthy fats, protein, omega-3s |
Use almond or oat flour to add more nutrients while keeping it grain-friendly.
Protein and Omega-3 Boost from Nuts
Adding chopped walnuts or pecans doesn’t just give your healthy banana bread vegan loaf a nice crunch—they pack in plant-based protein and heart-healthy fats. Nuts help keep you fuller longer and provide omega-3s, which are great for brain health.
Even without flaxseed, this recipe still delivers solid nutrition. You can make it lower in sugar, higher in fiber, or even grain-free depending on your needs.
Storing and Freezing Vegan Banana Bread the Right Way
Gluten free vegan banana nut bread stays fresh for 3–4 days at room temp when stored in an airtight container. Want it to last longer? Refrigerate it for up to 7 days.
Freezing is easy—slice the cooled loaf, wrap slices, and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
Common Baking Problems (and Fixes!)
If your gluten free vegan banana nut bread turns out dry, you’re likely using too much flour or baking too long. Use ripe bananas, applesauce, and a splash of plant milk to keep it moist. Always measure flour carefully and don’t overmix.
Wondering what holds it together without gluten or eggs? Bananas, applesauce, and xanthan gum in your flour blend do the job naturally—no flaxseed needed.
Conclusion: The Joy of Gluten Free Vegan Banana Nut Bread
There’s something incredibly comforting about baking a loaf of gluten free vegan banana nut bread. It’s warm, wholesome, and made with real, simple ingredients that nourish your body and soul. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-sensitive, or just love a healthier take on classic comfort food, this recipe delivers.
With each slice, you get the perfect balance of moist banana flavor, nutty crunch, and soft texture—without eggs, dairy, or gluten. No need for flaxseed, either. Thanks to ingredients like applesauce, ripe bananas, and a reliable gluten-free flour blend, this gluten free vegan banana nut bread comes together easily and stays moist for days.
This isn’t just a recipe—it’s a reminder that delicious can also be clean, simple, and feel-good. Keep a loaf on the counter for quick breakfasts, afternoon snacks, or even dessert with a drizzle of nut butter or vegan chocolate.
Ready to try something new?
Check out this high-protein banana bread for a muscle-loving twist.
Don’t miss our black bean banana bread if you’re craving an extra nutrition boost.
Looking for something cozy and sweet? Try our cinnamon swirl banana bread.
No matter how you bake it, this gluten free vegan banana nut bread is a treat that fits your lifestyle—and satisfies your cravings, every time.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Banana Nut Bread
How long does vegan banana bread last?
Gluten free vegan banana nut bread stays fresh for 3–4 days at room temperature when stored in an airtight container. For longer shelf life, refrigerate it for up to 7 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Why is my gluten free banana bread so dry?
Dry banana bread usually means too much flour or not enough moisture. Use ripe bananas, applesauce, and plant milk to help keep your healthy banana bread vegan loaf soft and tender. Also, be sure not to overbake.
What holds gluten free bread together?
Without gluten or eggs, binding comes from natural ingredients. In this recipe, bananas, applesauce, and the xanthan gum in a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend provide structure and prevent crumbling—no flaxseed needed.