Banana bread is a timeless favorite, but when it’s gluten free and still moist, fluffy, and rich? That’s a game-changer. This gluten free banana bread recipe is the perfect way to use up ripe bananas and still enjoy the soft texture and delicious flavor you expect from a traditional loaf. Whether you’re avoiding gluten by choice or necessity, this loaf delivers comfort in every slice without compromising on taste. Packed with warm banana flavor, a tender crumb, and a golden crust, it’s a must-bake recipe for every home kitchen—especially if you’ve been searching for a gluten free version that actually satisfies.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to make this gluten free banana bread soft, moist, and full of flavor:
Dry Ingredients:
– 1¾ cups gluten free flour blend (use a 1:1 baking flour with xanthan gum)
– 1 tsp baking soda
– ½ tsp salt
– ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional for extra warmth)
Wet Ingredients:
– 3 large ripe bananas, mashed (about 1½ cups)
– 2 large eggs, room temperature
– ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
– ¼ cup granulated sugar
– ⅓ cup melted butter or coconut oil (plus extra for greasing)
– 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
Optional Add-ins:
– ½ cup chocolate chips (semi-sweet or dark)
– ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
– 1 tbsp maple syrup (for added depth and moisture)
This simple set of ingredients yields a loaf that’s light, sweet, and comforting—perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your gluten free banana bread come out perfectly moist, fluffy, and full of rich banana flavor:
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten free flour blend, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine the wet ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add in the eggs, brown sugar, granulated sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk until the mixture is well blended.
Step 4: Make the batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the bread tender. If using, gently fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or maple syrup.
Step 5: Fill the pan
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top evenly.
Step 6: Bake
Place the pan in the center of the preheated oven and bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10–15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely before slicing for best texture and flavor.
This method ensures your banana bread turns out super moist and delicious every time—perfectly golden outside and soft inside.
Pro Tips and Variations
Master this gluten free banana bread with these practical tips and creative twists to make every loaf a success:
Pro Tips for Perfect Results
Use overripe bananas: Bananas with dark spots are sweeter and give the bread a stronger flavor and softer texture.
Measure flour accurately: Spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off. Too much flour can make the bread dry and crumbly.
Don’t overmix the batter: Stir just until combined. Overmixing can make the bread dense instead of fluffy.
Check for doneness early: Start checking at 50 minutes. Ovens vary, and overbaking can dry it out.
Let it cool completely: Gluten free breads firm up as they cool. Slice only after it’s fully cooled for the best texture.
Delicious Variations to Try
Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Stir in ¾ cup of chocolate chips for a sweet upgrade.
Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch and flavor.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative in place of regular butter.
Maple Touch: Replace half the sugar with maple syrup for a deeper, richer flavor.
Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for extra warmth, especially in fall.
Serving Suggestions
This gluten free banana bread shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a variety of flavors and textures. Here’s how to serve it for any time of day:
Breakfast Boost
Toasted with butter: Warm up a slice and spread with salted butter for a simple, satisfying start to the morning.
Topped with nut butter: Almond or peanut butter adds protein and richness—great for busy weekdays.
Add yogurt and berries: A slice alongside Greek yogurt and fresh berries makes a balanced and colorful breakfast.
Afternoon Snack
Drizzle with honey or maple syrup: A touch of natural sweetness enhances the banana flavor.
With coffee or tea: The moist crumb and sweet notes pair perfectly with a warm cup of coffee or black tea.
Dessert Ideas
Warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream: Serve slightly heated banana bread with a scoop of ice cream for a comforting, gluten free dessert.
Cream cheese frosting: For a sweeter treat, spread with a light layer of whipped cream cheese frosting.
Entertaining Tip
Cut the bread into mini slices or cubes and serve it on a platter with fruit, nuts, and cheeses for a casual brunch or gathering.
No matter how you serve it, this best gluten free banana bread is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to dress up or enjoy as-is.
Conclusion
This gluten free banana bread is proof that you don’t need traditional flour to create a moist, fluffy, and flavorful loaf. With ripe bananas, the right gluten-free flour blend, and a few pantry staples, you get a quick bread that feels anything but basic. Whether you’re baking for yourself, your family, or guests with dietary needs, this recipe delivers every time.
It’s easy to make, wonderfully versatile, and packed with the comforting banana flavor everyone loves. Enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even as a light dessert. Plus, it stores well—so you can savor a slice today and another tomorrow.
Once you try this recipe, it’s bound to become your go-to loaf whenever you have overripe bananas on hand. So grab a bowl, mash those bananas, and get ready to bake the best gluten free banana bread you’ve ever tasted.
Best Ever Gluten Free Banana Bread – Fluffy & Rich
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Loaf Pan
- Oven
- Spatula
Ingredients
Banana Bread Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 2 eggs room temperature
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 3/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips optional
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Whisk in eggs, coconut oil, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add to the banana mixture.
- Stir until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips if using.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
- Calories: 210
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 1.2g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 170mg
- Potassium: 170mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 31g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 12g
- Protein: 3g
- Vitamin A: 2% DV
- Vitamin C: 5% DV
- Calcium: 3% DV
FAQs
Why is my gluten-free banana bread crumbly?
Gluten-free banana bread can turn out crumbly if there’s not enough binding. Use ingredients like eggs, mashed bananas, or yogurt to hold the loaf together. Also, make sure you’re using a high-quality 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend with xanthan gum or guar gum included.
How to improve the texture of gluten-free bread?
To get a soft and moist texture, add moisture-retaining ingredients like mashed bananas, oil, or applesauce. Avoid overbaking, and let the loaf cool completely before slicing. A touch of vinegar or lemon juice can also help with softness.
What do eggs do in gluten-free bread?
Eggs provide structure, moisture, and stability. They help trap air, giving gluten-free banana bread a light texture. If avoiding eggs, use substitutes like flax eggs or chia eggs, though the crumb may be denser.
What causes holes in gluten-free bread?
Large air pockets or tunnels often result from overmixing the batter or too much leavening. Mix until just combined and measure baking powder or baking soda precisely.
How long will banana bread last?
Gluten-free banana bread stays fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature in an airtight container. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months. Let thaw before serving for best texture.
