A recipe for Gluten Free Banana Bread that has been declared ‘the BEST banana bread’ by wheat eaters… It’s moist, packed with banana, perfectly balanced and completely delicious. Easy to make dairy free too.
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This recipe was first published on Gluten Free Alchemist on 18th April 2013. Post updated 31st March 2022
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Legendary Gluten Free Banana Bread… It’s BETTER than the ‘original’
Apparently, this recipe for Gluten Free Banana Bread is the BEST… That is according to a whole raft of gluten-eaters. Yes. You read that right! People who normally eat wheat. And by my recollections of what I ate before being gluten free, I’m totally with them.
Adapted from an original recipe by Adriana Rabinovich, this Gluten Free Banana Bread has become a bit of a legend… With an ever-growing fan club. It’s not just that it is one of the most requested recipes for bakes sales and work-sharing either. But because it is SO good as to have fooled and persuaded even the most cynical gluten eaters… As doubters have looked confused while asking ‘is that cake really ‘unleaded’?’, I’m not sure whether it is they or I who have been most surprised by the answer. But either way, THIS recipe for Gluten Free Banana Bread is a keeper!
Actually… we can go one better… A few years ago, my daughter got invited for afternoon tea at Buckingham Palace (for real!) as part of a prize for a national cyber-safety competition. Being Coeliac, they had made her gluten free banana bread. Her reflection on the efforts of the queen’s kitchens? ‘It wasn’t as good as yours, mum’. 😂
Never accept less – The importance of high expectation when eating gluten free
I don’t know why I am surprised. As a gluten-eater for over 40 years before Coeliac Disease came to live with us, I have a lengthy ‘normal’ foodie history. I know what ‘real’ food tastes like. And I have refused to accept anything less… Coeliac or no Coeliac.
I get endlessly frustrated for people who feel sad that their food days are done. And yes… A lot of the gluten free bakes available on supermarket shelves are dry, gritty and unpleasant to eat… Particularly when compared to what we had before.
But here’s the thing… So much of the food I now bake at home (which is by necessity gluten free), tastes BETTER than what I made with wheat flour. It’s simply a question of finding or developing the RIGHT RECIPE. And that (I guess) is the secret. NEVER accept less. Don’t allow yourself to be persuaded that eating dry and tasteless alternatives is what you should expect, just because it’s on the shelves. Hold out for and demand moistness, flavour and decadence. This gluten free Banana Bread is a shining example of ‘better than wheat’!
Banana Bread or Banana Cake… What’s the difference?
And so to the conundrum… Is Banana Bread different from Banana Cake?
Search the internet and there are literally thousands of recipes pertaining to be either banana bread or banana cake. Both are made using (usually overripe) mashed bananas. But while recipes vary in ingredients and appearance, they are all fundamentally the same whether they are called bread or cake. And apparently, even award-winning chefs like David Lebovitz, are hard pushed to define the difference.
Trying to decipher which is which myself, I’ve seen everything from suggestions of difference based on density and shape, to how the final bread or cake is decorated. As far as I can see, all are a stab in the dark. Banana cake is ultimately the same as Banana Bread and vice versa. And either way… who cares? All I know, is that it’s super-delicious and an international favourite (particularly when there are over-ripe bananas to be used).
What are the best bananas for making Gluten Free Banana Bread?
Which brings us to the use of over-ripe bananas. Does baking banana bread (gluten free or not) NEED the bananas to be over-ripe? Most banana bread recipes specify that the bananas should be either ‘ripe’ or ‘over-ripe’. And yes… it helps. But it is not essential.
The riper the banana (providing it has not turned to complete sludge) the sweeter it will taste and the easier it will be to mash into a blended cake batter. Even bananas with black skin are mostly still good on the inside.
But I’ve made banana bread (and cake) with less ripe, yellow bananas too. They may be harder to mash and break down, but they still translate into delicious banana sponge when baked.
However… There’s one amazing trick to guarantee the most incredible banana bread ever. Are you ready for a game-changer? It’s using ROASTED bananas. Whether the bananas are just ripening, or on the turn, roasting them before peeling and mashing creates the most intensely divine banana flavour and sumptuously rich texture. Simply roast them in their skins on a baking sheet for about 20 minutes until the skins turn black. Leave to cool in the skins before you peel and use.
Is Gluten Free Banana Bread safe for people with Coeliac Disease?
The banana bread recipe shared here has been developed to be entirely gluten free. Thus it is completely safe for people with Coeliac Disease (Celiac Disease). Just remember, as always, to check labels for any hidden or unexpected gluten or ‘may contain’ warnings. Particularly if the people eating the banana bread are Coeliac, allergic or have a gluten-related health condition.
Can this Gluten Free Banana Bread also be made Dairy free?
Yes. Like many of the recipes here at Gluten Free Alchemist, my Gluten Free Banana Bread can easily be made to be dairy free with a couple of simple subs. And those are to switch the dairy butter for a good dairy free alternative (I recommend using either Stork or Flora dairy free block). And change the buttermilk or yoghurt for a dairy free yoghurt (not the thick variety).
Key ingredients used to make Gluten Free Banana Bread
Gluten Free Flour Blend
It is important to use a gluten free flour BLEND when making Gluten Free Banana Bread. Unlike wheat flour, one single origin flour won’t have the qualities needed for the texture and structure of the bake.
I have made this banana bread with both my white Gluten Free Alchemist Blend A (cake flour) and also my Gluten Free Alchemist Rice Free Wholegrain Blend B. Both produce fabulous results. You can find the recipes for both blends at the bottom of my Gluten Free Flours and Flour Blending page. But other flour blends should also work well too.
Ground Almonds (Almond Meal)
The addition of ground almonds brings both structure and moisture to the bake, as well as offering a delightfully nutty texture. Ground almonds are a secret weapon in the world of gluten free baking. Because of their particular qualities, they contribute incredible shelf-life and support to cakes…
Xanthan gum and raising agents
The xanthan gum is a necessary binder to the bake. Even with the ground almonds and carefully structured flour blend, it honestly makes a difference. If you are unable to tolerate xanthan gum, substitute with 2 teaspoons of psyllium husk or use an alternative binder of choice.
Gluten Free Banana Bread uses a combination of both baking powder and bicarbonate of soda for best raising. However, if you prefer not to use bicarb, sub with baking powder at twice the quantity of the bicarb.
Butter (or dairy free block alternative)
I always use unsalted butter in baking and add the salt separately for greater control. If you choose to use either salted butter or dairy free alternative, omit the additional salt from the recipe.
Sugars
My Gluten Free Banana Bread uses a combination of both caster sugar (preferably golden) and soft light brown sugar. This offers a balanced sweetness with gorgeous caramel undertones, that you simply don’t get from using white caster sugar alone.
Eggs
I currently don’t have a vegan option for this recipe and use UK Large sized eggs when making it. Be aware that not all eggs are measured or sized equally round the world. If you are unsure what size your local eggs are as an equivalent, check out my International Egg Size Comparison Chart.
It is possible that the recipe will work with an egg substitute such as aquafaba or egg replacer. If you try it, please do let me know how it came out.
Bananas
The ripeness of the bananas used has been discussed above. The size of banana may also vary from fruit to fruit. I use medium-sized bananas. Be aware that the larger the banana, the more moisture will be added to the mix and the longer it will take to bake. Extra-large bananas will also affect the final structure and ‘wetness’ of the bake. Medium or small to medium bananas are best.
Buttermilk or plain yoghurt
The addition of buttermilk or yoghurt adds richness to the banana bread. If using yoghurt (whether dairy or dairy free) make sure it is the standard ‘looser’ variety (not thick Greek yoghurt).
I weigh yoghurt/buttermilk in grams. However, if the bananas are on the larger side, you may need less yoghurt than stated, because the banana will add more fruit moisture. I would suggest starting by adding about three-quarters of the yoghurt/buttermilk and folding through, particularly if using larger bananas. If the mixture seems too dry (you are looking for an easy dropping consistency) then add more, just a tablespoon at a time, up to the maximum full amount stated.
Variations – How to ‘pimp’ your Gluten Free Banana Bread
This Banana Bread is versatile enough to take any number of add-ins and to work with any number of bakes. Try…
Optional add-ins
- Chopped, toasted nuts (hazelnut; almond; pecan; walnut, etc) – Up to about 100g
- Chocolate chips or chunks – Dark, milk or white. About 100g max
- Dried Fruit – Gluten Free Banana Bread is particularly good with sultanas or large juicy Flame Raisins. But dried blueberries are also a favourite of mine. Just a small handful.
- Desiccated Coconut – 15 to 20g is enough to add a little texture and bite.
- Pineapple (chunks or crushed) – Make sure it is thoroughly drained and just add a little, to speckle through.
- Toffee – I’ve done the hard work for you and created decadent Banoffee Loaf Cakes based on the recipe shared.
Shape and style
- Standard Banana Loaf
- Mini Banana Loaves
- Layered Banana Cake – Utterly divine layered with Chocolate Butter Icing.
- Cupcakes and Muffins – Perfectly portioned. You can even fill and decorate to make gluten free Banoffee Cupcakes.
- Traybake/Sheet Cake
- Celebration cake – Check out my decadent Gluten Free Banana Layer Cake.
- Use it in trifle… Specifically the most delectable Banoffee Trifle!
Have you made my Gluten Free Banana Bread?
If you make this recipe for Gluten Free Banana Bread or Cake (in any shape or form), do let me know. Leave a comment, rate the recipe, or tag me on social media with your yummy banana bread photos. I love seeing what you guys make and when I’ve inspired time in the kitchen. Find me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or Pinterest.
Always shared with my love
Other yummy banana recipes at Gluten Free Alchemist
Gluten Free Banana Bread
Key equipment
- loaf tins (2x 1 pound or 1x 2 pound) (or use cake tins, mini loaf tins or muffin cases)
- Oven
- fork
Ingredients
- 210 g plain gluten free flour blend I use GFA Blend A or B (see NOTES)
- 100 g ground almonds almond meal
- 1 tsp xanthan gum
- 1 ¼ tsp baking powder gluten free
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda (baking soda)
- 1 tsp fine sea salt
- 100 g unsalted butter (or dairy free alternative) softened
- 150 g caster sugar preferably golden caster sugar
- 125 g light soft brown sugar
- 2 large eggs At room temperature (UK large = Canadian ‘Extra Large’; Australian ‘Jumbo’; and US ‘Extra or Very Large’)
- 1 ½ tsp vanilla extract
- 3 medium bananas preferably very ripe or roasted (see notes) EACH banana should weigh in the region of 160g (in skin) and approx 115g banana flesh (after peeling).
- 175 ml buttermilk or standard plain yoghurt See NOTES (important)
Optional
- Chopped Nuts (walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, almonds (approx 100g) best oven-toasted
- Chocolate chips or chunks (approx 100g) dark, milk or white
Instructions
- Base-line a large non-stick loaf tin or two medium loaf tins with baking paper or prepare cake tins or a muffin tin with muffin cases.
- Pre-heat the oven to 180 C/350 F/Gas 4.
- Weigh and mix together the flour, almonds, xanthan gum, baking powder, bicarbonate of soda and salt and set aside. TIP: Weigh into a large airtight container and shake vigorously).
- Using an electric whisk, cream together the butter and sugars in a large bowl, until light and fluffy.
- Lightly beat the eggs together in a small bowl to combine yolk with white, before adding to the butter-sugar mix a little at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Add and beat in the vanilla extract.
- Remove the bananas from their skins and mash with a fork in a separate bowl.
- Gently fold the mashed bananas into the wet mixture.
- If using, add the nuts and/or chocolate chunks and fold through gently.
- Using a large spoon or spatula, gently fold in the buttermilk/yoghurt alternately with the dry mix about a third at a time, ensuring all the ingredients are JUST combined. Do not over-mix. (IMPORTANT: See Notes below re the gradual adding of buttermilk/yoghurt if using larger bananas).
- Transfer the batter into the prepared tin(s)/cases.
- Bake for approximately 20 to 25 minutes (large muffins); 30-35 minutes (cake); 45 to 55 minutes (large loaf), until a skewer/toothpick inserted into the centre comes out almost clean and the top is firm to the touch but springs back.
- Leave to cool in the tins for about 10 to 15 minutes before turning out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
- Decorate as you choose or just enjoy as it is.
Notes
Nutrition
© 2019-2023 Kate Dowse All Rights Reserved – Do not copy or re-publish this recipe or any part of this recipe on any other blog, on social media or in a publication without the express permission of Gluten Free Alchemist
Gluten Free Banana Bread shared with
- Full plate Thursday #584 with Miz Helen’s Country Cottage
- Fiesta Friday #427 with Angie
- What’s for Dinner #364 with The Lazy Gastronome
I absolutely love this banana bread recipe! We also add dried apricots which we think increases the moisture of the mix so there’s always overflow in the oven. Any tips to adjust the recipe if using dried fruit? I may be overthinking this, but with the buttermilk/yoghurt, when weighing what quantity are you measuring out in grams or is it just in ml?
Awww… Thanks Tara! The addition of apricots sounds lovely.
I’ve not tried making the recipe with added dried fruit, but I’m assuming that you are adding to the recipe as it otherwise states? Which should be fine (I think). You haven’t mentioned the final texture of the sponge and whether adding the apricots has affected that at all? The apricots would take on some of the moisture, but it might be helpful to know whether (apart from the overflow) the sponge is still good?
I do weigh my buttermilk/yoghurt (at gram to ml), but because the size of bananas varies so much, I add a little buttermilk at a time in case I don’t need it all (I’m assuming that you read the note at the bottom of the recipe?)
But… let me know whether the texture of the final over-flowed sponge is still good though and I’ll have another think.
Otherwise, it may be a simple case of adding apricots = more mix than fits the pan… and needing to fill the pan less (or use two pans… or make a loaf and some muffins)?
Does that make any sense? I hope so.
Kate xx
Incredible! This really is the BEST banana bread. Thank you for sharing.
Awww… Thank you Catarina. You’re welcome. I’m so pleased that you enjoyed it x
Omg,
Your not wrong Kate, this recipe is better than any wheat flour cake.
I made it into muffins, and they are divine.
I did whole banana and reduced the buttermilk.
Thank you so much
Thank you SO much Sandra. That’s amazing feedback and much appreciated.
I often make the recipe as Muffins too… Or split into one small loaf and some muffins. My daughter used to love having one for breakfast when she was small.
Anyway… SO pleased you love the recipe and you’ve been able to tweak too xxx
Tried this yesterday and oh my god – I literally could not taste the difference between this and normal banana bread. I used psyllium husk instead of Xanthan gum and it worked a treat, just as you suggested.
It had a really nice death of flavour, probably helped by the dark chocolate I popped in. Honestly, I didn’t think it would be possible to eat something so decadent gluten free!
Thank you so much for your amazing feedback Michelle. You are very welcome. I’m so glad you loved the recipe.
I remember when I first started making it many years ago, I had a non-GF friend who used to look after my daughter sometimes and I would always make her banana bread as a thank you gift, because she loved it so much.
It has been loved ever since! xx
I made this today and it is delicious. I used your blend B flour mix and also roasted the bananas as you suggested. I added walnuts to the batter.
My husband is celiac, I’m not and we both enjoyed it. Thanks for sharing your amazing recipes❤️
Thank you SO much for taking the time to comment Irene. I’m so glad that you loved the banana bread. It’s been a favourite here for years, so I’m very happy it’s being loved by others too xx
Your banana bread looks delicious! Before I try this recipe, can I use all flour mix B because I am allergic to almond? Any adjustment for the amount of buttermilk used? Thank you.
Hi Kelly
It should be fine to sub the almonds for more blend B. Blend B is a good balance of protein and starch, so shouldn’t need much of an adjustment.
I suggest using a bit of baker’s instinct. You are looking for a ‘loose dropping’ consistency, which will also be impacted by banana size. Only if the mix feels too stiff, would I add an extra tablespoon of buttermilk and then see how it feels.
I hope that helps.
Kate x
It looks as good as it sounds! Thanks for sharing at the What’s for Dinner party. Hope you have a fabulous week!!
Thanks Helen. You too x
Such a simple recipe, full of great flavour too. I’ll be baking this the next time my Mum comes to visit.
Thanks Lesley. Enjoy x
That looks so moist and delicious! You can’t beat a good banana bread!
Thanks Cat. Got to have a banana bread recipe that you can rely on! x
Next time you make this Banana Bread, would you please weigh the proper amount of bananas?
Bananas vary so much in size that a medium one may differ from one bunch to another.
If anyone else has a weight of 3 medium bananas, please share so I can make this great looking recipe soon.
Thank you
Hi Beverly
I’ve put it on my list of things to do!!! I agree, it would make it easier! Thank you for the suggestion.
I’ll let you know once they’re weighed xx
Hi again Beverly
Bananas now weighed and added to the recipe.
I have to tell you that I tried this with your flour blend B because I have that rice thing going on. It came out great! And delicious! I used U.S. extra large eggs and regular caster sugar because I didn’t have golden caster sugar. Nigella said it doesn’t make a lot of difference so I went with what I had. Lol! It did take 50 minutes in my powerful Viking oven, and I was surprised. My pan was a standard 9 x 5 loaf pan. I am planning to use your mix in other recipes. I am curious as to how it works in standard gluten free recipes that don’t have bananas or other wet things. Thank you so much! One thing I love down (banana bread), many more to go!
Thanks Alene. That’s really good news. I’ve been meaning to update the photos for this recipe for months, but it always gets eaten before I reach the camera. I will be sure to make it with Blend B, so that I can add the option to the recipe.
It does take a long time to bake, but it’s worth waiting for.
The B blend should work fine in most recipes, but as I haven’t tested them all myself, it would be wrong for me to state it. If you try any other recipes using it as a sub for what’s listed, do let me know.
Thanks again xxx
Hi
I just tried your recipe. It’s my first attempt at gluten free cooking and I’m not sure if it went right. I swapped one of the ingredients – xanthan gum to chia seeds in 1:1 ratio.
Dough appeared more liquidy than traditional banana bread I’m used to. I’m not sure if this is normal for this recipe or not. My tin might be too small as quite a lot came out while in oven. I’m waiting for it to finish baking so I can see the texture.
Hi Dorota
Thank you for your comment and query.
The dough may well be more ‘loose’ than traditional gluten banana bread, although effectively it is a cake batter. And yes.. It will rise quite well, so maybe less in the tins may help.
Not knowing the texture of your loaf, I can’t really say whether the result was right… However, I’m not sure using chia seeds in place of xanthan 1:1 is necessarily the best option. I’m not a huge fan of chia as a specific binder in bakes as it can make them very dense. Although given the amount used, it probably isn’t too significant in this case. If using it, make sure it is ground. If xanthan gum is problematic, I would suggest ground psyllium husk as a good sub… at a ratio of about 1½ psyllium for every 1 xanthan in a cake-type bake (the ratio increases for bread-bakes).
I hope this helps
Just shout if you need anything
Best wishes
Kate
This is a great recipe. I split the large quantity between two loaf tins. Followed the recipe exactly and it is delicious. My result is a bit darker than your photos, probably due to using a slightly darker flour blend. Yummy!
Yay! Thanks for letting me know Jean. So glad you liked it. I also often make in smaller tins… It freezes really well, so I get to save some for another day xx
I’ve made a lot of similar recipes in my slow cooker. I wouldn’t be able to survive with out my slow cooker. Thanks for sharing your recipes.
You’re welcome.
I’ve never made banana bread in a slow cooker, but sounds amazing! x
This recipe looks awesome!!! Since I don’t use grain flour, do you think almond or coconut flour would work well as a substitute? Thanks!
Sorry for the late reply Rose.
To be honest I’m not sure, but it is worth a try with maybe a half batch to test? I wouldn’t use too much coconut flour as it will likely be too dry for the bake to take it in quantity, but it would be worth trying it alongside almond flour.
What may be better though is using a broader flour blend… Can you eat arrowroot (it’s a perfect cornflour sub), tapioca, cassava, potato, tigernut flours? A balance of these alongside the almond/coconut may work better.
Or can you eat commercial Paleo flour blends like the Bob’s Red Mill one? That could be a good swap for the GF flour used.
If you want to let me know what you can/can’t eat, I could suggest a possible blend ratio… Or jus give it a go and see how it turns out? Let me know either way how it goes xx
I can't think why I haven't made this before as we often have bananas left over in our house. I tried it last night and it is scrummy; having eaten a slice for breakfast (all in the name of research, honestly!), it is still scrummy! It is a very moist cake and hasn't dried out the next day. It makes a lot – I split one batch over a 1lb and a 2lb loaf tin and this would be the perfect fill if I was going to ice them. Highly recommend this cake. Thanks for sharing, Kate. Helen x
Thanks Helen. So pleased you enjoyed it….. It has always been one of my favourite recipes. It makes an amazing sandwich cake too…… xx
Thank you so much for sharing this great recipes for Banana Bread.Your presentation is good.This looks so delicious and I want to try it.