Easy Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Cake

I’ve always had a sweet tooth, but as someone who follows a vegan and gluten-free diet, finding delicious desserts can sometimes be a challenge. That’s why I was thrilled when I discovered the perfect recipe for a vegan gluten-free banana chocolate cake.

This delectable treat combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich indulgence of chocolate, all without any animal products or gluten.

Trust me, this cake is a game-changer for anyone with dietary restrictions who still wants to enjoy a slice of heaven. So, let me share with you my go-to recipe that will satisfy your cravings and impress even the most skeptical dessert lovers.

Benefits of Vegan and Gluten-Free Diets

Vegan Diet

When it comes to a vegan diet, there are several benefits that make it a popular choice for many individuals. Here are some key advantages:

1. Improved Heart Health: A vegan diet is naturally low in saturated fat and cholesterol, which can help to reduce the risk of heart disease. It is also rich in fiber, antioxidants, and plant compounds that promote heart health.
2. Weight Management: Many people turn to a vegan diet as a means of managing their weight. Plant-based foods tend to be lower in calories than animal-based products, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of obesity.
3. Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Studies have shown that following a vegan diet can lower the risk of developing chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer, and hypertension.
4. Environmental Sustainability: Adopting a vegan lifestyle can also have positive effects on the environment. The production of animal-based products often requires more resources and contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. By choosing plant-based foods, you can help reduce your carbon footprint and support more sustainable agricultural practices.

Gluten-Free Diet

A gluten-free diet is essential for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. However, there are also some potential benefits for those without gluten-related conditions. Here’s why:

1. Digestive Health: Some people find that eliminating gluten from their diet improves their digestive health. Gluten can be difficult to digest for certain individuals, causing symptoms like bloating, gas, and diarrhea. By avoiding gluten, they may experience relief from these uncomfortable digestive issues.
2. Increased Energy: For individuals who have an intolerance to gluten, consuming gluten-containing foods can lead to fatigue and low energy levels. By sticking to a gluten-free diet, they can avoid these energy-draining symptoms and maintain a higher level of vitality throughout the day.
3. Improved Nutritional Variety: Following a gluten-free diet often requires individuals to seek out alternative grains and food options. This can lead to an increased intake of nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and gluten-free whole grains, promoting a more varied and balanced diet.
4. Support for Autoimmune Conditions: Some research suggests that a gluten-free diet may have potential benefits for individuals with autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or multiple sclerosis. While more studies are needed, it’s worth noting that gluten elimination is a dietary recommendation for certain autoimmune diseases.

Incorporating vegan and gluten-free options into your diet offers a range of benefits, from improved heart health and weight management to enhanced digestive health and increased energy levels.

By making conscious choices about the food we consume, we can take significant steps toward promoting our overall well-being and contributing to a more sustainable planet.

Ingredients for Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Cake

When it comes to baking a delicious and indulgent treat that caters to various dietary needs, this Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Cake is a perfect choice. Packed with the goodness of ripe bananas, vegan chocolate chips, and coconut sugar, this cake is not only a delight for the taste buds, but it also ticks all the boxes for those following a vegan and gluten-free lifestyle.

Here are the key ingredients you’ll need to whip up this delectable cake:

1. 2 ripe bananas: These naturally sweet fruits not only add a delightful flavor but also provide essential nutrients, such as potassium, fiber, and vitamin C.
2. 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour: I recommend using Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour for this recipe. It’s a reliable and convenient option that ensures a perfect texture and taste.
3. 1/2 cup coconut sugar: A healthier alternative to refined sugar, coconut sugar adds a subtle sweetness to the cake without causing blood sugar spikes.
4. 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips: Indulge your chocolate cravings with Nestle Toll House semi-sweet morsels or any other vegan chocolate chips of your choice. They add a rich and decadent touch to the cake.
5. 1/3 cup coconut oil: Coconut oil is an excellent substitute for butter in vegan baking. It adds moisture to the cake while enhancing the flavor profile.
6. 1/3 cup milk of your choice: Whether you prefer soy milk, almond milk, or any other plant-based milk, choose the one that suits your taste preference for this cake.
7. 1 tsp baking soda: This leavening agent helps the cake rise and create a light and airy texture.
8. 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhance the flavors of the cake with a hint of vanilla extract. Use a high-quality vanilla extract for the best results.
9. A pinch of salt: Salt is a key ingredient that helps balance the sweetness and enhances the overall taste of the cake.

By combining these simple yet wholesome ingredients, you’ll create a mouthwatering Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Cake that everyone can enjoy. Regardless of dietary restrictions, this cake will leave a lasting impression and satisfy your sweet tooth.

Baking Process

Now that we have gathered all the necessary ingredients for our vegan gluten-free banana chocolate cake, it’s time to start the baking process. I’ll guide you through each step to ensure that your cake turns out moist, delicious, and perfectly gluten-free.

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and ensure even baking.
2. Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, peel and mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Then, add the coconut oil, milk of your choice, vanilla extract, and coconut sugar to the mashed bananas. Stir well to combine, creating a smooth batter.
3. Add Dry Ingredients: In the same bowl, add the gluten-free flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt. Whisk until the ingredients are well combined. It’s important to stir until everything is incorporated, but be careful not to overmix. The batter should come together nicely without any lumps or pockets of flour remaining.
4. Fold in Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the vegan chocolate chips into the batter. If you prefer, you can reserve a few chocolate chips for sprinkling on top of the cake later.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. If you saved some chocolate chips, sprinkle them on top of the batter for extra indulgence. Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should have a few moist crumbs attached but no raw batter.
6. Cooling Process: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This will make it easier to remove from the pan without breaking. Afterward, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is important as it allows the flavors to develop and the cake to set properly, usually taking about 1 hour.

Vegan Gluten-Free Banana Chocolate Cake

The recipe replaces traditional ingredients with vegan and gluten-free alternatives, making it suitable for those with specific dietary restrictions.

Servings 8 people

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 45 minutes mins

Cool Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 55 minutes mins

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Ingredients

  

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour I used Bob’s Red Mill Gluten-free 1-to-1 baking flour
• 1/2 cup coconut sugar
• 1/2 cup vegan chocolate chips I used Nestle Toll House semi-sweet morsels
• 1/3 cup coconut oil
• 1/3 cup milk of your choice I used soy milk
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

 

• Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Prepare the Wet Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, peel and mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
• Then add the coconut oil, milk, vanilla extract, and coconut sugar to the mashed bananas. Stir well to combine.
• Add Dry Ingredients: In the same bowl, add the gluten-free flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt and whisk until well combined. Stir until everything is well incorporated, and no flour pockets remain. Be careful not to overmix; just mix until the batter comes together.
• Add Chocolate Chips: Gently fold in the vegan chocolate chips into the batter. Reserve a few for sprinkling on top if desired.
• Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly. If you saved some chocolate chips, sprinkle them on top of the batter.
• Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean, with a few moist crumbs attached.
• Cool: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.
• Afterward, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely, which should take approximately 1 hour.

Author: Kerry Baked

Course: Breakfast

Tips for Success

Baking a vegan gluten-free banana chocolate cake can be a delicious and satisfying experience. By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can create a moist and flavorful cake that everyone will enjoy. Here are a few tips to ensure your success:

Firstly, make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture. The sweetness of the bananas will enhance the overall taste of the cake. Additionally, using coconut oil and milk will add richness and moisture to the batter.

Secondly, when combining the wet and dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough cake. It’s important to mix just until the ingredients are well combined.

Lastly, allow the cake to cool completely before serving. This will ensure that the flavors have fully developed and the texture has set. You can serve the cake as is or add a dusting of powdered sugar for a touch of elegance.