When you think “banana bread,” you probably think comfort food - soft, warm, perfectly sweet. But this version does more than satisfy cravings. It’s made with whole ingredients, sweetened naturally, and boosted with stewed apples, a gentle source of prebiotic fibres that help support a diverse gut microbiome.
It’s an everyday staple you can whip up in one bowl, enjoy warm or cold, and feel genuinely good about eating. Let’s get into it.
Why You'll Love It
This recipe is built entirely around real, fibre-rich ingredients that nourish you without relying on refined sugar or ultra-processed binders.
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Oat flour for slow-release energy
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Stewed apples for polyphenols that help feed the good bacteria in your gut
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Bananas + dates for natural sweetness
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One-bowl method - because simpler is better
It’s wholesome, comforting, and ideal for breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or a gentle pre-workout bite.
Ingredients
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1 ¾ cups (210g) oat flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
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⅓ cup maple syrup
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¼ cup finely chopped dates
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4 small or 3 large overripe bananas (1½–1¾ cups / 338–410g), mashed
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⅓ cup (75 ml) stewed apple sauce (stewed apples blended)
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2 tsp apple cider vinegar
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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¼ cup (56 ml) almond milk or other plant milk (use only if needed)
Optional
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½–⅔ cup chopped walnuts
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¼–½ cup vegan dark chocolate chips
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1 tsp cinnamon
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1 extra banana, sliced lengthways (for topping)
Method
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Heat your oven to 180°C / Gas 6 / 350°F.
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Line a standard loaf tin with baking paper.
One-Bowl Base
- In a medium mixing bowl:
- Mash the bananas
- Add the stewed apple sauce and vanilla extract. Mix well.
Build the Batter
- Add: Oat flour; Maple syrup; Chopped dates; Bicarbonate of soda; Apple cider vinegar; Baking powder
- Stir until just combined. The batter should be slightly thick - a few lumps are absolutely fine.
- If it feels too thick, add a splash of plant milk.
- Now mix in any optional add-ins.
Bake
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Pour the batter into your lined loaf tin.
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Top with the sliced banana if using.
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Bake for 50 minutes to 1 hour.
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Ovens vary, so insert a toothpick into the centre - if it comes out clean, your loaf is ready.
Let the loaf cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set properly and gives you those clean, bakery-style slices.
Storage
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Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
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Freeze slices for grab-and-go breakfasts
More about Julie
Balancing her time between private clients and NHS commitments, Julie offers support for those seeking evidence-based nutrition and lifestyle guidance for a wide range of chronic conditions, including weight management and gut health.