This is the only Oat Flour Banana Bread recipe you need. It’s SO moist and fluffy; you would never guess it’s made with oat flour! It’s easy to make, it’s healthy and just absolutely delicious. In addition, It’s also naturally gluten-free and refined sugar-free, and you’ll love it!
There’s no doubt about it, Banana Bread is one of the best inventions of mankind. There’s something so nostalgic to me about banana bread, it always takes me back to when I was in my early teens, I used to make A LOT of banana bread – it was my favorite thing, and I’m not going to lie, I made THE BEST banana bread.
Now, my recipe has definitely been altered since those good old days to suit my current lifestyle. I’ve swapped some of the ingredients to make a healthier version of my original banana bread recipe. The cake flour got replaced with oat flour and the tonnes of sugar is replaced with a refined sugar-free alternative. I’m not going to lie, I still prefer “proper” banana bread, but this Oat Flour Banana Bread is still absolutely delicious and is perfect if you’re trying to be a bit healthier.
It took a lot of time and testing to perfect this Oat Flour Banana Bread recipe, I was determined to get it right. No one wants an average Banana Bread. I’m glad to say that I think I have finally perfected this Healthy Banana Bread and I cannot wait for you to try it!
This Banana Bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks or dessert (or all three!). I love meal-prepping this banana bread and just grabbing a slice whenever I need something to satisfy my sweet tooth, whilst still nourishing my body.
I love adding some chocolate chips and walnuts for extra deliciousness, but you can adjust the mix-ins and add whatever you’re craving! Another favorite of mine is just plain – with no mix ins – heated up, a slathering of butter and some grated cheese. TRUST ME – it’s INCREDIBLE.
Why you’ll love this healthy oat flour banana bread
- Perfect for All: Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe is foolproof.
- Nourishing Ingredients: Simple yet nourishing components you likely have in your pantry.
- Naturally Sweet: The bananas and a touch of coconut sugar keep the sweetness in check.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a snack, dessert, or a wholesome breakfast.
- Gluten-Free Goodness: With certified gluten-free oats, it’s a gluten-sensitive dream.
- Rich in Fiber: Each slice is a fiber-rich delight thanks to the oat flour.
- Customizable: Play with add-ins to tailor the bread to your current cravings.
How is this Banana Bread Healthy?
Oat Flour Base: Unlike traditional banana bread recipes that use refined white flour, this recipe utilizes oat flour as the main ingredient. Oat flour is rich in fiber, which helps promote digestive health, keeps you feeling full longer, and stabilizes blood sugar levels.
Reduced Sugar Content: Instead of using refined white sugar, this banana bread is sweetened with coconut sugar, a natural alternative with a lower glycemic index. Coconut sugar imparts a gentle caramel flavor without causing spikes in blood sugar levels, making it a healthier choice for those watching their sugar intake.
Nutrient-Dense Ingredients: The use of ripe bananas, grass-fed butter, and eggs provides essential nutrients such as potassium, healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. These ingredients contribute to overall well-being and support various bodily functions.
Customizable Add-ins: Adding nutritious mix-ins such as dark chocolate chips, walnuts, or seeds enhances the nutritional profile of the banana bread. These ingredients provide additional fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, making the bread more wholesome and satisfying.
Overall, this Oat Flour Banana Bread offers a healthier alternative to traditional recipes without sacrificing flavor or texture. It’s a delicious way to enjoy a classic treat while incorporating nutrient-dense ingredients into your diet.
Ingredients Needed
I’ve listed the ingredients below, to see the measurements and the full recipe, scroll to the recipe card at the bottom of this page!
- Bananas: The star of the show! Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture to the bread. Use VERY ripe bananas for an extra sweet loaf.
- Grass-Fed Butter: A heart-healthy fat that adds richness and a lovely moistness.
- Coconut Sugar: A healthier alternative to refined sugar, coconut sugar imparts a gentle caramel flavor.
- Eggs: Providing structure and a touch of protein, eggs are essential for that perfect rise.
- Vanilla Extract: Elevating the flavor profile with a warm and inviting aroma.
- Gluten-Free Oat Flour: The hero of our healthy twist! Oat flour ensures a gluten-free base that’s fibre-rich and satisfying. You can buy oat flour or make your own by blending oats into a fine powder.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent guarantees a fluffy texture and a lovely rise.
- Salt: Balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the flavors.
Ingredient Substitutions
Coconut Sugar: You can replace coconut sugar with an equal amount of brown sugar or granulated sugar.
Grass-Fed Butter: You can use melted coconut oil, extra virgin olive oil, or other neutral oils like canola or vegetable oil.
Oat Flour: If you don’t have oat flour, you can make your own by blending rolled oats in a food processor until they turn into a fine powder. Plain all-purpose flour or whole meal flour also works well.
Eggs: If you’re looking for an egg-free option, replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water).
Vanilla Extract: Vanilla extract adds a wonderful aroma, but if you don’t have any, you can omit it or use almond extract for a different twist.
Equipment Needed
- Digital Food Scale – for accurate measuring
- One Mixing Bowl
- Fork or Potato Masher – to mash the bananas
- 2lb Loaf Tin
- Baking Parchment Paper
- Whisk and Spatula
How to make oat flour banana bread
Here is a detailed summary of how to make this Oat Flour Banana Bread; I’ve also included some photos, and you can watch the recipe video here. At the bottom of this page is a summarized version that can be printed.
Step 1:
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven works its magic, line your loaf pan with parchment paper to ensure your banana bread doesn’t stick. Use a 2lb Loaf Tin if possible. If your loaf tin is smaller, you will need to bake it for longer, and if it’s bigger, you’ll need to bake it for less time. Keep an eye on it.
Whilst the oven is preheating, you can pop your bananas on a plate in the oven, this will make them even sweeter! You can also place your butter in a small bowl and put it in the oven, too, so that it melts.
Step 2:
In a large mixing bowl, lay your three ripe bananas. Using a fork, whisk, potato masher, or even your hands, mash the bananas until they become smooth and creamy. You can also mash your bananas on a plate, I find this easier.
Step 3:
Into the bowl of mashed bananas, add the melted butter, coconut sugar, vanilla extract, and eggs and whisk it up until smooth.
Step 4:
Add your oat flour, baking powder, and salt to the bowl then gently fold with a spatula until just combined.
Step 5:
Add in your mix-ins if using as well as a splash of milk. Use the spatula to fold them in.
Step 6:
Transfer the mixture to your loaf tin. You can slice a banana down the middle and add this on top of your loaf. You can add more chocolate chips to the top for extra goodness.
Step 7:
Run a knife down the centre of the loaf (as in you’re scoring bread) – this helps the loaf to rise to perfection. Pop your oat flour banana bread in the oven, and be patient!
Step 8:
Leave your banana bread to cool to room temperature inside the loaf tin before removing and slicing!
Tips and Notes
Banana Ripeness: The key to a flavorful and sweet banana bread lies in using very ripe bananas. Look for bananas with brown spots on the peel, indicating they’re at their sweetest stage.
Oven Preparation: Preheat your oven before you start preparing the batter. This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when it’s time to bake the banana bread.
Preheating Tip: Whilst the oven is preheating, you can pop your bananas on a plate in the oven, this will make them even sweeter and adds depth to the banana flavor in the bread.! You can also place your butter in a small bowl and put it in the oven, too, so that it melts.
Loaf Pan Size: For the best results, use a 2lb loaf tin. If your loaf tin is smaller, you’ll need to increase the baking time, and if it’s larger, you’ll need to decrease it. Keep an eye on the bread as it bakes to prevent overcooking.
Mixing Method: When mashing the bananas, aim for a smooth and creamy consistency to ensure even distribution throughout the batter. Use a fork, whisk, potato masher, or your hands to achieve the desired texture.
Incorporating Ingredients: When adding the wet ingredients to the mashed bananas, whisk them until smooth. This ensures that the butter, sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract are well combined, resulting in a uniform batter.
Mix-ins: Get creative with your mix-ins! While chocolate chips and walnuts are classic additions, you can experiment with other ingredients like dried fruit, shredded coconut, or seeds to customize the flavor and texture of your banana bread.
Scoring the Loaf: Running a knife down the center of the loaf before baking helps it rise evenly and prevents cracking. This simple step ensures a beautifully domed loaf with an even texture.
Cooling Time: Allow the banana bread to cool completely in the loaf tin before slicing. This allows the bread to set and prevents it from crumbling when sliced.
Reheating: If reheating slices from the fridge or freezer, warm them briefly in the microwave or toaster oven for a just-baked taste and texture.
Customization Ideas
Mix-ins: Experiment with different mix-ins to customize the flavor and texture of your oat flour banana bread. Consider adding options like:
- Dark chocolate chips
- Chopped nuts (such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds)
- Dried fruit (such as raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates)
- Shredded coconut
- Seeds (such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, or chia seeds)
- Spices (such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger)
Fruit Variations: While bananas are the star of this recipe, you can also incorporate other fruits for added flavor and moisture. Try mixing in mashed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries), diced apples, or grated carrots for a unique twist.
Flavor Enhancers: Elevate the flavor profile of your banana bread by incorporating additional ingredients such as:
- Citrus zest (lemon, lime, or orange)
- Extracts (such as almond, coconut, or maple)
- Flavored yogurts (such as vanilla, Greek, or flavored coconut yogurt)
- Nut butters (such as peanut butter, almond butter, or cashew butter)
Health Boosters: Amp up the nutritional value of your banana bread by adding superfood ingredients like:
- Flaxseed meal or chia seeds for added fiber and omega-3 fatty acids
- Hemp hearts for a protein and omega-rich boost
- Matcha powder or spirulina for antioxidant benefits
How to store oat flour banana bread
Proper storage is crucial to maintain the freshness and quality of your oat flour banana bread. Here are the storage instructions:
Room Temperature: For a short-term delight within 1-2 days, shield your banana bread from the elements by placing it in an airtight container or securely wrapping it in plastic wrap. Choose a cool, dry spot away from sunlight and heat to keep its freshness intact.
Refrigeration: Opt for refrigeration if you’re extending your enjoyment to a week. Seal the banana bread with plastic wrap or in an airtight container before sliding it into the fridge. This protective cocoon maintains its moistness and safeguards against spoilage. Warm slices briefly in a microwave or toaster oven before serving for that just-baked feel.
Freezing: Wrap each slice with plastic wrap followed by a layer of aluminium foil, or use freezer-safe zip-top bags. Exclude as much air as possible to ward off freezer burn. Your frozen treasure can keep well for 2-3 months. When craving strikes, thaw in the fridge overnight or give a slice a quick zap in the microwave or toaster.
Remember that the texture of the banana bread might change slightly after freezing, but the flavour and overall quality should remain excellent.
Enjoy your oat flour banana bread!
So there you have it – the long-awaited and perfectly curated recipe for easy, healthy oat flour banana bread. With ripe bananas, oat flour, and dark chocolate, this bread exemplifies the harmony of flavours and the joy of mindful indulgence. Bake a batch, share the love, and relish that you’ve found your go-to recipe for guilt-free comfort. Happy baking!
More easy and healthy baking recipes:
FAQ’s About Oat Flour Banana Bread
Can I use regular flour instead of oat flour?
Yes, you can substitute oat flour with regular all-purpose flour if desired. However, keep in mind that oat flour provides a gluten-free option and adds additional fiber to the banana bread. Adjust the amount of flour as needed to achieve the desired consistency.
How ripe should the bananas be for this recipe?
The bananas used in this recipe should be very ripe, with the peel turning mostly brown or black. Overripe bananas are sweeter and softer, which enhances the flavor and moisture of the banana bread. If your bananas aren’t ripe, you can heat them in the oven to make them sweeter.
Can I make this banana bread vegan?
Yes, you can make this banana bread vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs or chia eggs. To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. Use this mixture as a replacement for each egg in the recipe.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the banana bread?
If you prefer a sweeter banana bread, you can increase the amount of coconut sugar or add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup on top before serving. Alternatively, you can use ripe bananas with more brown spots, as they will be naturally sweeter.
Can I make muffins instead of a loaf with this recipe?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe to make banana muffins instead of a loaf. Simply divide the batter evenly among muffin cups lined with paper liners and adjust the baking time accordingly, typically around 20-25 minutes at the same oven temperature.
Is this banana bread suitable for people with gluten sensitivities?
Yes, this banana bread is naturally gluten-free when made with certified gluten-free oat flour. However, it’s important to ensure that all ingredients used are certified gluten-free to prevent cross-contamination.
Hey! If you make this oat flour banana bread, I would love it if you could leave me some feedback and a rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ in the comment section at the bottom of the page!
Easy & Healthy Oat Flour Banana Bread
Equipment
- Fork or Potato Masher
Ingredients
- 3-4 Bananas (around 300g or 1 cup)
- 80 g Coconut Sugar (1/3 cup)
- 45 g Grass-Fed Butter, melted (3 tbsp)
- 2 Eggs
- 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract
- 240 g Oat Flour (2 cups – blended oats)
- 2 tsp Baking Powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt
- Mix-ins of Choice chocolate chips, nuts, fruit, seeds etc.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F / 160°C fan oven) and line your loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, mash three ripe bananas until smooth using a fork, whisk, masher, or hands.
- Whisk together mashed bananas, olive oil, coconut sugar, vanilla, and eggs.
- Add in oat flour, baking powder and salt and gently fold until combined with a spatula.
- Add mix-ins of choice along with two tablespoons of milk and fold to combine.
- Pour mixture into loaf tin.
- Score the loaf's centre with a knife, then bake for 35-40 minutes.
- Let banana bread cool in the tin at room temperature before slicing.
Video
Notes
Nutrition
I hope you love this easy and healthy oat flour banana bread!
