Best Banana Bread Recipe + High Altitude & Gluten Free Options

Step 1

Line the bottom and sides of a loaf pan with parchment paper or spray well with baking spray, or spray well with baking spray or rub liberally with butter.

Step 2

Whisk together together flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt, set aside.

Step 3

Beat sugar and eggs on medium-high speed for 6-8 minutes (longer if using natural cane sugar), it should be nice and airy.

Step 4

Slowly drizzle in oil, should take about a minute. Add mashed bananas, creme fraiche (yogurt or sour cream), and vanilla extract.

Step 5

Toss nuts (or, if using or chocolate chips) in dry ingredients before folding into wet batter, this will help distribute them and keep them from sinking.

Step 6

Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for about 45 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes. Start checking for doneness around 45-50 minutes.

Step 7

Loaf should spring back when lightly touched, if loaf is jiggly or sticky to the touch, return to oven for 5-10 minutes at a time.

Step 8

Remove from oven, allow to cool in pan on wire rack for at least 30 minutes. Remove from pan, let cool completely.

Step 9

High Altitude Baking Instructions: Start checking bread for doneness around 45 minutes. Loaf top should not jiggle or be sticky to the touch.

Step 10

Once cooled, wrap tightly in plastic wrap. Stores on counter for 3-5 days (cool house), in fridge up to one week and wrapped well and placed in freezer baggie for up to 2 months.