This one’s for my GFFs (gluten free folks), a banana bread recipe so easy and delicious, I can promise it’s just like the real deal. Because while I am not gluten free, if I did a blind taste test, I would never have guessed this was gluten free banana bread. Needless to say, on my first attempt, I was blown away.
And for those who may have stumbled upon this recipe who aren’t necessarily gluten free, you are more than welcome to use regular flour for this recipe. Though, if you’re curious, give GF it a try! Or if you have a nut allergy, since this recipe contains walnuts, simply skip that ingredient.
I’ve made plenty of banana breads over the years, with so many variations, additions and ingredient swaps, but I wanted to keep this one as *basic* (classic) as possible. Oh, and with the fewest, simplest ingredients in mind for a more budget-friendly option as well.
Here’s my thing: you know how you’re technically supposed to use over or ripe-ripe bananas? I don’t – never really do! IMHO, I’ve not been able to tell a difference. In fact, the riper a banana, they go from being a starch to a sugar. So, for me, I justify using less ripe bananas as *healthier* on the spectrum, LOL.
What do you say? Have I made myself convincing to give this foolproof, gluten free banana bread a go?
Cost breakdown for this recipe
*Note: Item costs can vary based on location, inflation, brand, and sale price. I do my best to buy/suggest the most cost-effective option. I also may not factor certain ingredients into the price where their amounts have an inconsiderable impact, like sugar, spices, salt, oil or baking powder.
| Item purchased | Item Cost | Cost to make recipe |
|---|---|---|
| Gluten free flour | $9.99 | $3.72 |
| Granulated sugar | $3.19 | $0.16 |
| Bananas | $0.60 | $0.60 |
| Eggs | $3.55 | $0.60 |
| Walnuts | $3.36 | $3.36 |
| Butter | $3.67 | ~$0.55 |
| Total item(s) cost: $24.36 | Total recipe cost: $8.99 |
*To cut the price of this recipe cost in almost HALF, simply do without walnuts. PLUS, you’ll cut the calories way back, too.
Money-saving tips
- Buy what’s on sale.
- If you already have it in your pantry or fridge, duh, don’t buy it!
- Only buy the amount you need to make the recipe – i.e., if the recipe only calls for 2 lemons, only buy 2 single lemons, don’t buy the bag!
- The price difference between organic, non-organic, fresh and frozen options – organic/frozen can be the most cost effective (i.e., depending on brand/store, if it’s on sale or BOGO).
Foolproof Gluten Free Banana Bread
Yes, a gluten free banana bread that is so moist, you'd never be able to tell the difference. It's rich and dense, packed with flavor and spice, and still has that perfect crumb factor. This banana bread loaf holds up so well that you can even cut slices thin (~1/2 inch). Enjoy as is, with a spread of cream cheese or go bold and grill/air-fry your slices for that added crisp.
Ingredients
Instructions
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Preheat your oven to 350F.
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Start by mashing your bananas with a fork or in a processor (I just use a fork for a more rough mash). Then add to a large mixing bowl with your eggs, melted butter (cooled), sugar, salt, vanilla extract and cinnamon.
Do not add in your melted butter when it's piping hot because this will cook your eggs prematurely, which you don't want. -
Whisk until fully incorporated, then add in the chopped walnuts, flour and baking powder. Fold in until dough forms in the bowl.
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Spray a loaf pan lightly with oil, or line with parchment paper (for easy lift removal from the loaf pan), then evenly spread the banana bread mixture using a spatula.
You may add extra walnuts or sliced bananas on top if you desire. -
Place the loaf on the middle rack in the oven and bake for roughly 50-55 minutes.
*If you prefer banana bread on the drier/crumby side, bake for 1 hour. If you prefer your banana bread on the gooey side, bake for 45-50 minutes. -
Once out the oven, remove from the pan immediately and allow to rest/cool for at least 30 minutes before slicing into.*For a shinier texture on top, I lightly baste my banana bread with honey.
Note
*Eat Rich Live Full is not a nutritionist or dietitian. For nutritional information, it is advised to refer to a nutritionist, dietitian or an online nutritional resource calculator. Nutritional information can vary depending on ingredients, ingredient types and brands used for each recipe.