Introduction
Nothing quite warms the heart and home like the delightful aroma of fresh banana bread baking in the oven! This gluten-free banana bread is not only tender and moist but also packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Whether you enjoy it as a cozy breakfast, a sweet afternoon snack, or a special treat for friends, this recipe is sure to become a cherished favorite in your kitchen. Grab those ripe bananas and let’s get baking!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar or honey (adjust based on sweetness preference)
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or chocolate chips (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. The smell of baking bread will fill your home with warmth and comfort!
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted coconut oil, creating a creamy mixture full of flavor.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and eggs until well blended. This adds a lovely aroma and richness to your batter.
- Add the baking soda, salt, and cinnamon, mixing until combined. The ground cinnamon will give your bread an inviting scent.
- Gently fold in the gluten-free flour and sugar or honey until just incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
- If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, fold in the optional walnuts or chocolate chips for that extra burst of texture and flavor.
- Pour the luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread will be golden brown and enticing!
- Remove from the oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Notes or Tips
For extra moisture, consider adding a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt or applesauce. If you prefer a sweeter loaf, you can adjust the amount of sugar or honey to suit your taste. This banana bread freezes beautifully, so you can enjoy a slice whenever you crave that homemade warmth!
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness. The more speckles they have, the better! Additionally, gently folding the flour into the wet ingredients ensures your banana bread stays fluffy and light, rather than dense.
FAQ
Can I substitute the coconut oil? Yes, you can use melted butter or another neutral oil if you prefer.
How do I store leftover banana bread? Store it wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze slices in a zip-top bag.
Can I add other mix-ins? Absolutely! Dried fruits, shredded coconut, or spices like nutmeg can add delightful twists to your banana bread.
Conclusion
Now that you have this scrumptious gluten-free banana bread recipe in your hands, it’s time to bake! The combination of rich bananas and warm spices will surely bring joy to your taste buds. Whether you’re sharing slices with friends or sneaking a piece when no one is watching, this homemade treat is bound to become a staple in your home. Enjoy with a warm cup of tea or coffee, and savor every delicious bite!