Dairy-Free, Egg-Free, Nut Free, Vegan
Introduction & Back Story
As someone who’s always looking for easy, delicious, and inclusive recipes, this Banana and Date Loaf has become a true favourite in our home. It's a gluten-free, dairy-free, and nut-free recipe that’s suitable for anyone with food sensitivities, but it's so delicious that it’s bound to become a crowd-pleaser regardless of dietary needs. I first tried this recipe when I was looking to make the most of overripe bananas and a packet of dates that had been sitting in my cupboard. Little did I know this would become a family staple – a moist, subtly sweet loaf with a delightful texture from the dates and a deep caramel flavour from the coconut sugar.
Why We Love Banana and Date Loaf
Bananas and dates bring natural sweetness and a rich, caramel-like flavour, making this loaf irresistibly delicious without needing refined sugars. Bananas keep it moist, and dates add texture along with a touch of indulgence. It’s a treat you can feel good about serving to your family, whether for breakfast, a snack, or even a light dessert.
This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to avoid gluten, dairy, eggs, and refined sugars. It’s also a versatile canvas – you can add nuts, seeds, or even a sprinkle of chocolate chips to suit your taste.
What Makes This Banana and Date Loaf Special?
Moist and Tender: The combination of bananas and dates creates a rich, moist texture, with each slice holding together beautifully.
Subtly Sweet: There’s no need for refined sugar in this recipe; the dates and bananas provide just the right amount of sweetness.
Naturally Gluten-Free and Vegan: Made with a gluten-free flour blend, non-dairy milk, and vegan butter, this loaf is suitable for a wide range of dietary needs.
Perfect for Customisation: While delicious on its own, this loaf can be customised with add-ins like nuts or spices if you’re feeling adventurous.
Ingredients Breakdown
Bananas: Ripe bananas are essential here – the riper, the better. They provide natural sweetness, moisture, and a lovely flavour that’s the base of this loaf.
Dates: Soaking the dates in baking soda and boiling water softens them and helps create a smooth, caramel-like texture. This step also enhances their natural sweetness and blends them seamlessly into the loaf.
Gluten-Free Flour Blend: A good gluten-free blend is key. Look for one with a mix of flours like rice, potato, and tapioca for the best results.
Coconut Sugar: I use coconut sugar for its caramel-like flavour, which complements the dates perfectly. You could also use another unrefined sugar if preferred.
Non-Dairy Milk: Any non-dairy milk will work, but I prefer coconut for a mild, creamy taste.
Vegan Butter (or Coconut Oil): Melted vegan butter adds richness to the loaf. Alternatively, you can use melted coconut oil for a hint of coconut flavour.
Baking Soda and Lemon Juice: This combination helps the loaf rise and creates a light, fluffy texture. The lemon juice activates the baking soda, so make sure to mix and bake immediately for the best results.
Gluten-Free Banana and Date Loaf – Moist, Sweet, and Naturally Dairy-Free
Let’s dive into how to make this satisfying, allergy-friendly loaf!
Serves: 8 | Prep Time: 15 mins |
Bake Time: 1hr 10 mins |
Ingredients:
100g (1/2 cup) chopped dates (preferably Medjool)
100ml boiling water
1/2 tsp baking powder
4 overripe bananas, mashed (around 300g)
1 tbsp lemon juice
115 g (1cup) melted vegan butter, cooled until warm (or coconut oil)
150g (1/2 cup) coconut sugar (optional, depending on sweetness preference)
40g coconut milk (or other plant-based milk)
1 tsp vanilla extract
250g 1( 1/2 cups) gluten-free flour blend
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp mixed spice
Optional add-ins: chocolate chips, chopped nuts, seeds
Instructions:
Soak the Dates
Start by placing the dates in a small bowl. Add the baking soda, then pour over boiling water. Let the dates soak for about 10 minutes, softening them and enhancing their natural sweetness. In a food processor, blend the mixture together. This step creates a smoother texture in the loaf and makes it easier to blend the dates with the other ingredients.
Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas and lemon juice until smooth. Add the soaked dates along with any remaining liquid, then mix in the coconut sugar, non-dairy milk, and melted vegan butter (or coconut oil, if using as an alternative). Stir well to ensure the ingredients are fully combined.
Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the gluten-free flour blend, baking powder, spices, and a pinch of salt. Whisk to ensure the dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently to combine. Mix just until incorporated; overmixing can make the loaf dense.
Bake Immediately
Pour the batter into a lined loaf tin. Baking immediately is crucial to make the most of the reaction between the baking soda and lemon juice. Place in a preheated oven at 180°C (fan) and bake for about 1 hour and 10 minutes. After 45 minutes, reduce the oven temperature to 170°C to prevent the top from browning too quickly.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, let the loaf cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This loaf is delicious warm but even better after it has cooled and had time to settle. Slice and enjoy as a breakfast treat, snack, or dessert.
Top Tips for a Perfect Banana and Date Loaf
Use Very Ripe Bananas: Overripe bananas add more sweetness and moisture, which are essential for a perfect loaf.
Don’t Skip the Soaking: Soaking the dates with baking soda and boiling water softens them and enhances the loaf’s texture and flavour.
Baking Temperature: The initial higher temperature helps the loaf rise, while lowering the temperature prevents over-browning and ensures even baking.
Mix Carefully: Avoid overmixing to keep the loaf light. Just fold until the dry ingredients are combined with the wet.
Bake Immediately: The reaction between the lemon juice and baking soda is time-sensitive, so bake the mixture as soon as it’s ready.
FAQs
Can I substitute the bananas? Bananas are integral to the recipe’s texture and flavour, but if you need a substitute, try using applesauce or pumpkin purée. Just keep in mind that the flavour and texture will change.
Can I use another type of sugar? Absolutely! If you don’t have coconut sugar, brown sugar or a similar unrefined sugar will work as well. It may alter the flavour slightly, but it will still taste delicious.
How should I store the loaf? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. It also freezes well; just slice and wrap individually for an easy grab-and-go snack.
Is this loaf gluten-free? Yes! As long as you use a certified gluten-free flour blend, this loaf is naturally gluten-free.
Can I add any toppings or extras? Feel free to experiment! Add a handful of walnuts, chocolate chips, or even some cinnamon for a twist.
Nutritional Benefits
This Banana and Date Loaf is not only delicious but also nutritious. Bananas are packed with potassium, fibre, and natural sugars, providing a quick energy boost without refined sugar. Dates offer additional fibre and minerals like magnesium and calcium. The coconut sugar keeps the glycaemic index lower than regular sugar, while the gluten-free flour blend ensures everyone can enjoy a slice.
Final Thoughts
This Banana and Date Loaf has quickly become a go-to recipe for our family, offering a satisfying treat that aligns with our dietary needs. It’s moist, rich, and subtly sweet, making it ideal for breakfast, a snack, or even as a dessert. Whether you’re catering to food sensitivities or simply want a wholesome treat, this loaf is sure to be a hit. It’s simple to make, packed with flavour, and filled with ingredients that nourish. I hope you enjoy baking and sharing this Banana and Date Loaf as much as we do in our home.
This Banana and Date Loaf recipe combines simplicity with flavour, making it a fantastic addition to any kitchen. It’s perfect for those on gluten-free or dairy-free diets but equally delightful for anyone seeking a wholesome and satisfying treat. Bake a loaf, pour a cup of tea, and enjoy a slice of this delicious, nutrient-packed bread that’s as nourishing as it is tasty. Happy baking!
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