If you have a soft spot for banana bread but need to avoid gluten, you are going to love this Gluten Free Banana Bread Recipe. It’s incredibly moist with a rich banana flavor, perfectly spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and has a satisfying crunch from walnuts and oats on top. What makes this banana bread truly special is how effortlessly it comes together using wholesome ingredients like Bob’s Gluten Free All-Purpose Baking Flour and almond flour, so you never have to compromise between taste and dietary needs. Let me walk you through this cozy, all-time favorite loaf that’s bound to become your go-to for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert.

A white marbled surface holds various ingredients arranged neatly: at the top right, a white bowl with a pale blue inside rim contains a light beige flour mix with a wooden spoon resting inside; to its top left, a clear glass bowl filled with golden-yellow oil; below it, a small glass jar of white liquid, likely milk; two ripe bananas with brown spots lie diagonally on the left; near the bottom left are two brown eggs side by side; a small clear bowl of chopped light brown walnuts sits to the right of the eggs; a small white bowl with a cinnamon powder is placed above the walnuts and next to a larger white bowl filled with dark brown sugar; a very tiny clear bowl containing amber-colored liquid, possibly vanilla extract, is near the bottom-right side of the arrangement. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You'll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully simple but play crucial roles in bringing out the delicious texture, flavor, and aroma in this bread. From ripe bananas that provide natural sweetness and moisture to warming spices and crunchy walnuts, each component is thoughtfully chosen to make this recipe a showstopper.

2 very ripe bananas, mashed (1 cup): Use those perfectly spotty bananas for natural sweetness and moist texture.
½ cup coconut sugar or regular sugar: Adds subtle caramel notes while keeping the sweetness balanced.
⅓ cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus extra for brushing: Keeps the bread tender and adds a slight fruitiness.
¼ cup almond milk: A dairy-free liquid that keeps the bread soft and rich.
2 eggs: These bind everything together and help the loaf rise beautifully.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with its fragrant warmth.
1½ cups Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free All-Purpose Baking Flour: The perfect gluten-free base to ensure this bread isn’t crumbly.
½ cup almond flour: Adds a lovely nutty flavor and extra moisture.
2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the bread rise and stay light.
¼ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the baking powder to give a tender crumb.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor depth.
½ teaspoon cinnamon: Brings warming spice notes that pair perfectly with banana.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds just the right hint of earthiness to elevate the aroma.
½ cup chopped walnuts, plus 2 tablespoons for topping: For crunch and richness throughout the loaf and on top.
1½ tablespoons rolled oats, for topping: Adds a rustic look and extra texture.

How to Make Gluten Free Banana Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and lining a 9x5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. Lightly grease the exposed edges where the parchment doesn't cover to prevent sticking. This simple prep ensures your banana bread comes out perfectly every time.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth. Add in the sugar, olive oil, almond milk, eggs, and vanilla extract, then whisk everything together until you get a lovely, uniform mixture. This step is where the natural sweetness and moisture begin to build a delicious base for your bread.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free all-purpose baking flour, almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, sea salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This careful mix ensures your spices are evenly distributed and the rising agents can do their magic.

Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together

Pour the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and gently stir until just combined — be careful not to overmix! Then fold in the chopped walnuts to add delightful crunch throughout the bread. This is where the batter starts to transform into something truly special.

Step 5: Bake Your Banana Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and sprinkle the top with the remaining chopped walnuts and oats for an inviting finish. Bake for 42 to 48 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. This baking time ensures a moist crumb with a golden crust.

How to Serve Gluten Free Banana Bread Recipe

A clear glass bowl on a white marbled surface holds light brown, thick batter mixed with medium-sized walnut pieces, creating a textured look with chunks scattered evenly. A wooden spoon with a darker tip stirs the mixture, held by a pair of woman's hands, one steadying the bowl and the other mixing. A ripe yellow banana with brown spots lies near the bowl, adding color contrast. A blue and white striped cloth sits beside the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

When it comes to serving, a fresh spread of almond butter or a light drizzle of honey makes this gluten free banana bread recipe feel even more indulgent. You can also add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a cozy touch that complements the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This loaf pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a perfect morning treat. If you’re enjoying it as a snack or light dessert, try it alongside a bowl of fresh berries or a dollop of vanilla yogurt to add contrast in texture and flavor.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, slice the banana bread and toast it lightly before serving. Top with cream cheese and a few sliced bananas or even a spoonful of your favorite jam. This gluten free banana bread recipe also makes fantastic French toast when dipped in egg and milk then fried until golden — an unexpected delight!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps it moist and fresh, so you can enjoy your favorite treat without any hassle.

Freezing

If you want to keep your gluten free banana bread recipe fresh for longer, slice it first and freeze the pieces in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. It’ll keep well for up to three months and thaw quickly whenever you’re ready for a snack.

Reheating

To revive your banana bread slices, pop them in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds until warm. This restores that just-baked softness and aroma, making every bite feel like it’s freshly out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I substitute the olive oil for another type of oil?

Absolutely! Mild-flavored oils like avocado oil or light vegetable oil work great as substitutes, and they won’t overpower the natural banana flavor.

What if I don’t have Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free All-Purpose Baking Flour?

You can use any good-quality gluten-free baking flour blend, but make sure it contains a binder like xanthan gum for the best texture in your banana bread.

Can I make this banana bread dairy-free?

Yes, this recipe already uses almond milk, so it’s naturally dairy-free. Just double-check that all your ingredients are dairy-free if you have allergies or sensitivities.

How ripe should my bananas be for the best flavor?

The riper, the better! Look for bananas that are heavily speckled or even turning brown—that’s when the sugars are most developed, giving your bread amazing sweetness and moisture.

Is it possible to add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?

Definitely! Stir in about ½ cup of chocolate chips, dried fruit, or shredded coconut along with the walnuts to customize your loaf exactly how you like it.

Final Thoughts

This Gluten Free Banana Bread Recipe is a heartfelt favorite that’s easy to make and guaranteed to bring a smile to anyone lucky enough to try it. The combination of natural sweetness, warm spices, and crunchy nuts creates such a comforting treat that’s perfect for any time of day. I hope you have as much fun baking and eating this loaf as I do sharing it. Give it a go, and enjoy every delicious slice!

Gluten Free Banana Bread Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need