Introduction
If you’re looking for a warm, comforting treat that’s both delicious and gluten-free, look no further than this delightful banana bread! Bursting with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and enhanced by the tropical flavor of coconut oil, this easy-to-make loaf will quickly become a favorite in your home. Perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert, this banana bread is a wonderful way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4×8-inch loaf pan with a bit of coconut oil or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted coconut oil. The warmth of the oil will help smooth out the bananas.
- Stir in the sugar, egg, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined, creating a lovely base for your batter.
- Add in the baking soda and a pinch of salt, mixing gently until just incorporated, as you don’t want to overwork the batter.
- Gradually fold in the gluten-free flour, stirring until the batter is smooth and invitingly thick.
- Pour the luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing it out with the back of your spoon to ensure even baking.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown and fragrant!
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This is the hardest part—waiting to dig in!
Notes or Tips
For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking. Walnuts or pecans give a nice crunch, while chocolate chips add a rich sweetness. Just be sure they’re gluten-free if you’re maintaining a strict diet!
Cooking Techniques
This banana bread relies on simple techniques that anyone can master. Make sure to mash the bananas well for a smoother texture. Mixing the wet ingredients together first will ensure the sugar dissolves properly before adding the dry ingredients. And remember, an overbaked loaf can be dry—keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking!
FAQ
Can I make this banana bread vegan?
Yes! Substitute the egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water) for the same binding effect.
How should I store the banana bread?
Wrap any leftover banana bread in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage!
Conclusion
This gluten-free banana bread is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. With its inviting aroma and moist, tender crumb, it’s sure to please everyone, whether they follow a gluten-free diet or not. So, gather your ingredients, let your kitchen come alive with the scent of baking bread, and enjoy every delicious slice!