Moist Banana Loaf
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Moist Banana Loaf
This gluten-free banana bread delivers moist, tender perfection with ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla. It’s an easy, wholesome treat ready in about an hour, perfect for breakfast or afternoon tea. You’ll love how this simple recipe transforms everyday ingredients into something truly special.
I discovered this recipe during my travels through New England, where cozy bakeries served warm slices with afternoon tea. The aroma of cinnamon and bananas baking still takes me back to those crisp autumn mornings. I often serve this alongside my favorite cranberry orange muffins for brunch gatherings, or enjoy a slice with coffee while planning my next culinary adventure. It has become my go-to comfort food, much like our family’s beloved classic banana bread, but with a gluten-free twist that everyone can enjoy.
Why This Gluten-Free Banana Bread Shines
- Perfect Texture: The sour cream ensures a moist, tender crumb that stays fresh for days.
- Simple Ingredients: You likely have everything needed in your pantry right now.
- Family-Friendly: Even non-gluten-free eaters will adore this delicious banana bread.
- Meal Prep Ready: It freezes beautifully for quick breakfasts or snacks all week.
What You’ll Need for Perfect Gluten-Free Banana Bread
Be sure to see the recipe card below for the full listing of ingredients, instructions, notes, and estimated nutritional information.
- Ripe bananas: Use very spotted bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Unsalted butter: Softened to room temperature for proper creaming with sugar.
- Granulated sugar: Creates that light, tender texture we all love in banana bread.
- Large eggs: Room temperature eggs incorporate better into the batter.
- Vanilla extract: Use pure vanilla for the best flavor enhancement.
- All-purpose flour: Regular flour works perfectly for this traditional recipe.
- Baking soda: Provides the necessary lift for a perfect rise.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- Sour cream: The secret to incredibly moist and tender banana bread.
Gluten-Free Banana Bread
Delicious gluten-free banana bread recipe with simple ingredients. Perfectly moist and flavorful, this easy-to-make homemade banana bread is a family favorite.
Equipment
- mixing bowl
- electric mixer
- spatula
- oven
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- whisk
- measuring cups
- measuring spoons
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose gluten-free flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer on medium speed to cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light, pale, and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Beat the eggs into the butter mixture one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking soda, and salt to combine and aerate the dry ingredients.
- Gently fold the mashed bananas and sour cream into the wet ingredients using a spatula until just combined.
- Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and fold gently with the spatula until no streaks of flour remain, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and use the spatula to spread it into an even layer.
- Bake for 55 to 65 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center of the loaf comes out clean.
Notes
Let the bread rest for 1 hour after baking for easier slicing.
Ways to Customize Your Banana Bread
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in ¾ cup chocolate chips before baking for extra indulgence.
- Nutty Version: Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for delightful crunch.
- Spiced Twist: Include 1 teaspoon cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon nutmeg for warmth.
My Best Tips for Banana Bread Success
- Banana Ripeness: Use bananas with brown spots for natural sweetness and moisture.
- Proper Mixing: Fold ingredients gently until just combined to avoid tough bread.
- Doneness Test: Insert a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean.
- Cooling Time: Let the bread cool completely before slicing for perfect texture.
How to Keep Your Banana Bread Fresh
- Store: Keep at room temperature for 2 days wrapped tightly, or refrigerate for up to 1 week in an airtight container.
- Freeze: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm slices in 300°F oven for 10 minutes or microwave for 15 seconds.
- Make-Ahead Tip: The batter can be prepared and refrigerated overnight before baking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make banana bread without eggs?
Yes, you can substitute each egg with ¼ cup applesauce or mashed banana. The texture may be slightly denser but still delicious. I recommend trying this with our vegan banana bread recipe for best results.
How ripe should bananas be for banana bread?
Bananas should have plenty of brown spots and be very soft. The riper they are, the sweeter your bread will be. If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can bake them at 300°F for 15 minutes to soften.
Can I use frozen bananas for banana bread?
Absolutely! Thaw frozen bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Frozen bananas often have even more concentrated flavor, making them perfect for baking.
Why did my banana bread sink in the middle?
This usually happens from underbaking or overmixing the batter. Ensure your oven temperature is accurate and test doneness with a toothpick. Mix just until ingredients are combined for best results.
Other Favorite Quick Bread Recipes
Why This Gluten-Free Banana Bread Wins Hearts
With its incredibly moist texture and rich banana flavor, this bread quickly becomes a household favorite. It’s surprisingly easy to make from scratch and fills your kitchen with the most wonderful aroma. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it has to mine over the years.
