Gluten-Free Banana Bread – Moist, Sweet, and Easy to Make

There’s something so heartwarming about the smell of banana bread baking—like a warm hug from the oven.

This Gluten-Free Banana Bread is one of those feel-good recipes I reach for when I need a little nostalgic comfort with a healthy twist.

It’s moist, tender, and perfectly sweet, with a soft crumb that just happens to be gluten-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist, fluffy texture – Even without gluten, it’s never dry or crumbly.

Banana-rich flavor – Ripe bananas shine through beautifully.

Simple pantry ingredients – You likely have everything on hand already.

Naturally sweet – Ripe bananas mean you can use less added sugar.

Bakes beautifully every time – Great for beginners and gluten-free eaters alike.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ripe bananas – The riper, the better—soft and sweet.

Gluten-free all-purpose flour – Look for blends with xanthan gum, or add it separately.

Baking soda – Helps the bread rise and stay light.

Unsalted butter – Adds richness and moisture.

Granulated sugar – Just enough for a balanced sweetness.

Eggs – Provide structure and extra moisture.

Vanilla extract – For that cozy, aromatic finish.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use very ripe bananas – Think brown-speckled and soft for best results.

Don’t overmix – Stir just until combined to avoid a dense texture.

Grease your pan well – Prevents sticking, even with gluten-free batter.

Watch the bake time – Ovens vary, so check around the 50-minute mark.

Let it cool – Gluten-free bakes firm up as they cool. Don’t slice too soon!

How to Make Gluten-Free Banana Bread

Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Spray a 4 x 8-inch loaf pan with cooking spray and set aside.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until completely smooth.

Step 3: Add Baking Soda and Butter

Stir the baking soda into the bananas, then mix in the melted butter.

Step 4: Add Sweeteners and Flavorings

Stir in the sugar, salt, beaten eggs, and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Fold in the Flour

Add the gluten-free flour and xanthan gum (only if needed).

Mix gently until just combined.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.

Bake on the center rack for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Slice

Let the banana bread cool completely in the pan before slicing.

Enjoy as is or with a pat of butter!

What to Serve It With

A cup of black coffee or chai tea for a cozy breakfast

Greek yogurt and fresh berries on the side

A drizzle of nut butter or honey for extra indulgence

Scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dessert twist

Crumbled over warm oatmeal or smoothie bowls

Variations / Substitutions

Add chocolate chips or chopped walnuts for texture.

Use coconut sugar or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.

Swap butter for coconut oil to make it dairy-free.

Turn it into muffins—just adjust bake time to 18–22 minutes.

Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm spice.

Storage & Leftovers

Room temp – Store wrapped at room temp for up to 3 days.

Fridge – Keep in an airtight container for up to 1 week.

Freeze – Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil; freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat – Microwave slices for 15–20 seconds or warm in toaster oven.

Use leftovers – Make French toast, bread pudding, or banana bread croutons!

FAQs

Can I make this with regular flour?
Yes, but then it won’t be gluten-free. Use all-purpose and omit xanthan gum.

What if my flour already has xanthan gum?
Then skip the extra xanthan gum to avoid gummy texture.

Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing.

Why is my banana bread sinking in the middle?
It may be underbaked or the batter was overmixed—check doneness carefully.

Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, especially if your bananas are very sweet, you can use ½ cup.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter.

How do I know when it’s done?
A toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten-Free Banana Bread is the kind of recipe that brings joy from the first whiff to the last bite.

Whether you’re gluten-free by necessity or choice, this loaf delivers on everything—flavor, texture, and nostalgia.

Keep it simple or jazz it up, but either way, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen.