Gluten Free Banana Bread Recipe: Soft, Sweet, and Irresistible

Say goodbye to bland, crumbly gluten-free baked goods! With the perfect balance of sweetness and the natural richness of ripe bananas, this recipe proves that gluten-free doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or texture. Even your non-gluten-free friends will be asking for seconds!

Ingredients for the Perfect Gluten-Free Banana Bread

Crafting a delicious gluten-free banana bread starts with the right ingredients. Here's a detailed breakdown of what you'll need and why each item is essential:

1. 2 large eggs, beaten
   • These add richness and structure to the bread, ensuring it holds together while staying moist. Always use fresh eggs for the best results.
2. 3 very ripe bananas, mashed
   • The riper, the better! Overripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture, creating the bread's iconic flavor and soft texture.
3. 1/3 cup (5 tablespoons + 1 teaspoon) unsalted butter, melted
   • This provides a rich, buttery flavor and keeps the bread tender. Use high-quality butter for a noticeable difference in taste.
4. 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar
   • Adds sweetness to complement the bananas. You can adjust slightly for your desired level of sweetness, but this amount gives a perfect balance.
5. 1 teaspoon baking soda
   • A critical ingredient for leavening, this helps the bread rise beautifully, giving it a light and airy texture.
6. 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
   • Enhances the overall flavor profile with warm, aromatic notes. Opt for pure vanilla extract over imitation for a superior taste.
7. 1 1/2 cups (192 grams) gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum
   • The backbone of this recipe! Ensure your flour blend includes xanthan gum, as it acts as a binder, replicating the elasticity of gluten.
8. 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (omit if your flour contains it)
   • If your flour blend lacks xanthan gum, this small addition will provide the elasticity needed for a cohesive and tender loaf.
9. Pinch of salt
   • A small but mighty ingredient that balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors, making every bite more satisfying.

With these simple yet essential ingredients, you'll create a gluten-free banana bread that is soft, moist, and absolutely irresistible. Gather everything you need, and you're one step closer to enjoying a homemade treat that's as easy to make as it is to love!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Gluten-Free Banana Bread

Follow these simple steps to create a perfectly moist and flavorful gluten-free banana bread. Each step ensures your bread turns out delicious every time.

1. Prepare Your Oven and Loaf Pan
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Grease a 4x8-inch loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
2. Mash the Bananas
   • In a large mixing bowl, use a fork or potato masher to mash 3 very ripe bananas until the texture is smooth and creamy. Smooth bananas ensure even sweetness and moisture throughout the bread.
3. Add Baking Soda
   • Sprinkle 1 teaspoon of baking soda evenly over the mashed bananas.
   • Stir thoroughly to activate the baking soda, which will help the bread rise beautifully as it bakes.
4. Incorporate the Melted Butter
   • Pour 1/3 cup of melted unsalted butter into the banana mixture.
   • Mix until fully combined. The butter adds a rich flavor and keeps the bread tender.
5. Add the Sugar, Salt, Eggs, and Vanilla
   • Stir in 3/4 cup granulated sugar, a pinch of salt, 2 beaten eggs, and 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract.
   • Mix until everything is well blended. These ingredients create a perfectly balanced flavor and soft texture.
6. Mix in the Flour
   • Gradually add 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour to the wet ingredients.
   • If your flour doesn’t already include xanthan gum, add 1/4 teaspoon for structure. Stir gently to avoid overmixing, which can affect the bread's texture.
7. Prepare for Baking
   • Pour the batter into the greased loaf pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
8. Bake to Perfection
   • Place the loaf pan on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 50–60 minutes, checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark.
   • Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready. Keep an eye on it, as oven times can vary.
9. Cool and Slice
   • Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
   • Carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This step ensures the bread holds its shape when sliced.
10. Enjoy!
    • Slice and serve your delicious gluten-free banana bread. It pairs wonderfully with coffee, tea, or as a snack all on its own!

With these easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll have a homemade treat that’s sure to impress family and friends.