This is the last gluten free banana bread recipe you’ll ever need. It’s soft, moist, and made in one bowl with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. I’m Emma, and this recipe came straight from my own craving for a slice of home. I first created it in a tiny South London flat with just a few overripe bananas and a desperate need for that “warm hug in food form” my mum used to make. The magic of this version is that no one ever guesses it’s gluten-free—it’s just that good. It proves you don’t have to give anything up, just bake with a little extra care, like I do in my popular gluten-free strawberry cheesecake muffins.

Table of Contents

Why This is the Best Moist & Easy Gluten-Free Banana Bread Recipe

Versatile and Adaptable
Need it vegan or dairy free? Want to toss in chocolate chips or nuts? This recipe handles it all with ease.

Perfectly Moist and Tender Results
Say goodbye to dry or gummy banana bread. This version turns out soft and just the right amount of fluffy every time.

Incredibly Easy to Make
No mixers or special tools required. One bowl and a spoon are all you need.

Simple and Accessible Ingredients
You won’t have to hunt for rare ingredients. Everything is pantry-friendly and easy to find.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this gluten free banana bread, measured in both cups and grams for accuracy.

Important Notes on Key Ingredients

Gluten Free Flour
For best results, use a quality blend like Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1 or King Arthur Measure for Measure. These blends include binders that help mimic the texture of traditional flour.

Bananas
Use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots. They add natural sweetness and moisture that make the bread extra soft.

Fat (Oil vs. Butter)
Melted butter adds rich flavor. If you want more moisture or a dairy-free version, use a neutral oil like avocado or light olive oil.

Xanthan Gum
Check your flour blend. If it already contains xanthan gum, skip adding extra. If it doesn’t, this small amount helps bind the loaf and prevent crumbling.

How to Make Gluten Free Banana Bread

Follow these simple steps for a perfect loaf every time.

1. Preheat your oven
Set your oven to 350°F. Lightly spray a 4 by 8 inch loaf pan with cooking spray and set it aside.

2. Mash the bananas

omarmachllal macro shot of mashing very ripe bananas with a f b24cefd6 e089 44f2 848d 580870963f28 2 — A close-up shot of a fork mashing ripe bananas in a large glass bowl.

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork until they’re completely smooth. This helps spread their moisture evenly through the batter.

3. Add baking soda
Sprinkle the baking soda over the mashed bananas and stir it in well. This activates the leavening process for a nice rise.

4. Mix in melted butter
Pour in the melted butter and stir until fully combined. The butter adds richness and flavor.

5. Add sugar, salt, eggs, and vanilla
Stir in the sugar, a pinch of salt, the beaten eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and well blended.

6. Add the flour and xanthan gum
Slowly fold in the gluten free flour. If your blend doesn’t include xanthan gum, add it now. Stir gently to combine without overmixing.

7. Pour into the pan

omarmachllal overhead shot of a smooth thick gluten free bana 0bcd63a2 7612 4c95 a260 107c8af36b15 1 — The Best Moist & Easy Gluten Free Banana Bread 11

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly.

8. Bake
Place the pan on the center rack of your oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it, as oven temperatures can vary.

9. Cool and slice
Let the bread cool completely in the pan before slicing. This helps it set properly and makes cutting easier. Enjoy!

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions

Serve each slice warm or at room temperature. Add a spread of butter or a spoonful of peanut butter for extra richness. It also tastes great with coffee or a chilled glass of dairy-free milk. For a sweet finish, sprinkle a little cinnamon or add a dollop of whipped topping.

If you love this banana bread, you’ll definitely want to try our soft and crumbly gluten free blueberry scones. They’re perfect for breakfast or a cozy snack.

Storage Instructions

Once the loaf has cooled completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. Keep it at room temperature for up to three days or in the fridge for up to one week.

Reheating Tips

To enjoy it warm, microwave a slice for 10 to 15 seconds. This brings out the softness and makes it taste freshly baked again.

Helpful Notes

Use Very Ripe Bananas

The more brown spots the better. Ripe bananas add sweetness and moisture which are key for soft gluten free banana bread.

Don’t Overmix the Batter

Mix until the ingredients are just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense and gummy texture.

Let the Batter Rest

Allow the batter to sit for 10 to 15 minutes before baking. This gives the gluten free flour time to hydrate and improves the final texture.

Check Your Flour Blend

Some blends already contain xanthan gum. If yours does, skip adding extra. If not, include the small amount listed in the ingredients.

Use the Right Pan Size

A 4 by 8 inch loaf pan gives the perfect height and bake. Using a larger pan may affect the texture and baking time.

Add-ins Should Be Folded Gently

If adding nuts, chocolate chips, or fruit, gently fold them in after the flour is mixed in to avoid overworking the batter.

The Ultimate Guide to Choosing Gluten Free Flour

Not all gluten free flours perform the same. We tested three top blends to help you find the best one for banana bread. Here’s what we found.

Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1

This blend gave the softest crumb with a slightly chewy texture. The loaf rose well and had a classic banana bread feel. It already contains xanthan gum which simplifies the process.

King Arthur Measure for Measure

This one produced a slightly denser loaf but still tasted great. The texture was even and held together nicely. It’s ideal for those who prefer a firm slice.

Pillsbury Gluten Free

This blend had a more cake-like texture with a very soft bite. It’s a good option if you like your banana bread on the lighter side.

Final Recommendation

For most reliable results, go with Bob’s Red Mill 1-to-1. It balances softness and structure perfectly and is widely available. If you want a firmer crumb, King Arthur is your next best choice.

Troubleshooting Guide: Your Questions Answered

Why is my gluten free banana bread gummy or dense

This usually happens from overmixing the batter, using the wrong flour blend, or not measuring flour properly. Use the spoon and level method and mix gently.

Why did my banana bread sink in the middle

Sinking is often caused by underbaking, incorrect oven temperature, or too much leavening. Use an oven thermometer and make sure a toothpick comes out clean before removing the loaf.

Why is my banana bread dry and crumbly

Dry bread can result from overbaking or measuring flour incorrectly. Always cool the bread completely and use a good flour blend that includes xanthan gum.

Can I reduce the sugar

Yes, you can lower the sugar by about one third without affecting the structure. Keep in mind that bananas also add natural sweetness. Taste your batter before baking if you’re unsure.

Variations and Customizations

Vegan Banana Bread

Replace each egg with one flax egg. To make a flax egg, mix one tablespoon ground flaxseed with three tablespoons water and let it sit for five minutes. You can also use a chia egg using the same method.

Looking for more ideas that are both gluten free and dairy free? Check out our full collection of recipes designed for sensitive stomachs and big flavor.

Dairy-Free Banana Bread

Swap the butter with an equal amount of a neutral oil like avocado or vegetable oil. For extra richness, you can use melted dairy-free butter.

Nut-Free Banana Bread

Use a certified nut-free flour blend and avoid any add-ins like almond flour or nuts. Always double-check labels to make sure ingredients are allergy-safe.

Explore more plant-based gluten free ideas that are perfect for all kinds of eaters. From breakfast to dessert, we’ve got your cravings covered.

Popular Mix-ins

Add chocolate chips for a dessert-style loaf or chopped walnuts for a classic crunch. Blueberries bring a fruity twist. For extra flavor, swirl in cinnamon and a pinch of brown sugar before baking.

How to Store and Freeze Gluten-Free Banana Bread

Room Temperature Storage

Let the banana bread cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store at room temperature for up to three days.

Refrigeration

To keep it fresh longer, place the wrapped loaf in the refrigerator. It will stay moist and good to eat for up to one week.

Freezing Instructions

A loaf of cooled gluten-free banana bread being wrapped in plastic wrap for storage. — Wrap the bread tightly to keep it moist for several days.

You can freeze the whole loaf or individual slices. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw at room temperature or warm a slice in the microwave for 20 seconds.

Conclusion and Call to Action

This gluten free banana bread recipe is simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re baking a classic loaf or customizing it with chocolate chips, nuts, or fruit, you’ll get a moist, satisfying gluten free banana bread every single time.

If you try this gluten free banana bread, let us know in the comments—your feedback helps others and supports our community. And if you loved it, please leave a star rating so more home bakers can discover their new favorite gluten free banana bread recipe.

We love seeing what you create. If you make this banana bread, share a photo with our community on Facebook. For more visual inspiration and to discover thousands of other gluten free ideas, be sure to follow us on Pinterest.