Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread

If you’re looking for a deliciously moist and decadent treat that meets gluten-free and vegan dietary needs, look no further than this Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with rich Dutch cocoa and melty vegan chocolate chips to create a loaf that’s perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also brings a touch of indulgence to your table without compromising on health.

The Upside of Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread

This Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s packed with several benefits:

• Moisture: The ripe bananas add natural moisture, ensuring a tender crumb.
• Rich Flavor: Dutch cocoa provides a deep chocolate flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas.
• Nutrient-Rich: Bananas offer potassium, while coconut sugar is a lower-glycemic sweetener.
• Allergy-Friendly: This recipe is free from gluten and animal products, making it suitable for various dietary restrictions.
• Quick and Easy: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, you can have this delightful bread ready in no time!

Your Shopping Guide

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making the best Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 tablespoon flaxseed meal: A great egg substitute that binds the ingredients.
• 3 tablespoons water: To activate the flaxseed meal and create a vegan egg.
• 1 cup gluten-free all-purpose baking flour: Ensures the bread is gluten-free while providing structure.
• 1/2 cup Dutch process cocoa: For rich chocolate flavor.
• 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise.
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances flavor.
• 3 large ripe bananas: About 1 ½ cups mashed; the base of the batter.
• 1/3 cup coconut oil: Provides moisture and a slight coconut flavor.
• 3/4 cup coconut sugar: A healthier alternative to refined sugar.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds depth to the flavor.
• 3/4 cup vegan chocolate chips: For extra chocolatey goodness.

Setup & Equipment

To make this Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread, you will need the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls: For combining your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Whisk or fork: For mixing the flaxseed meal and water, and for combining the dry ingredients.
• Loaf pan: To bake the banana bread.
• Parchment paper: Optional, for easy removal of the bread from the pan.
• Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for baking.

Build Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread Step by Step

Creating this delicious Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread is a breeze! Follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Prepare the Flax Egg

In a small bowl, mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water. Stir well and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it thickens and becomes gelatinous.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You should have about 1 ½ cups of mashed bananas.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

Add the melted coconut oil, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and the prepared flax egg to the mashed bananas. Stir until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose baking flour, Dutch process cocoa, baking soda, and sea salt.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 6: Fold in the Chocolate Chips

Gently fold in the vegan chocolate chips, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 7: Prepare the Loaf Pan

Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Step 8: Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top begins to brown too quickly, cover it with foil for the remaining baking time.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. Enjoy your Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread warm or at room temperature!

Holiday & Seasonal Touches

This Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread is versatile and can be dressed up for different occasions. Here are some ideas:

• Add Nuts: Walnuts or pecans can be added for texture and a nutty flavor.
• Seasonal Spices: Incorporate cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin spice for a fall twist.
• Top It Off: Drizzle with a vegan chocolate glaze or sprinkle with powdered sugar before serving.
• Festive Mix-Ins: During the holidays, consider adding dried cranberries or orange zest for a festive flair.

Frequent Missteps to Avoid

Creating the perfect Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread is easy if you keep these common pitfalls in mind:

• Using Overripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Baking is a science; make sure to measure your ingredients precisely.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mix just until combined to avoid a dense texture.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing to maintain its structure.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To keep your Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread fresh:

You can store the banana bread at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container in the freezer. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds until heated through. Enjoy the rich chocolatey goodness anytime!

Questions People Ask

Can I substitute the coconut oil with another oil?

Yes, you can use vegetable oil or melted vegan butter as a substitute for coconut oil, but be aware that it may slightly alter the flavor.

What if I don’t have Dutch process cocoa?

You can use regular unsweetened cocoa powder, but the flavor will be less rich and the color will be lighter.

How do I know when the banana bread is done baking?

The banana bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached. If it’s too wet, continue baking for a few more minutes.

Can I make this recipe into muffins instead?

Absolutely! You can pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18-22 minutes, depending on the size of your muffins.

Time to Try It

Now that you have all the tips and tricks for making the best Chocolate Gluten Free and Vegan Banana Bread, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get baking! This recipe is not only indulgent but also a guilt-free treat that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy it on its own, slather it with nut butter, or serve it with a scoop of vegan ice cream, this banana bread is sure to become a staple in your home. Happy baking!