Gluten-Free Banana Cupcakes

Name: Banana Cupcakes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 1 Dozen
Ingredients: 1 c. gluten-free flour blend, spooned and leveled (I use Bob's RedMill 1:1); 1/2 tsp. baking soda; 1 tsp. baking powder; 1/4 tsp. salt; 1/4 tsp. cinnamon; 2 Tbsp. unsalted butter, melted; 2 Tbsp. oil; 2 Tbsp. brown sugar, packed; 1/4 c. milk + 3/4 tsp. apple cider vinegar (mix together and let sit for 5 minutes); 2 Tbsp. sour cream, room temperature; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1/2 tsp. vanilla; 1/2 c. mashed banana; 3/4 c. unsalted butter, room temperature; 3/4 c. Crisco shortening; Pinch of salt; 3 c. powdered sugar; 1/2 Tbsp. cornstarch; 1 1/2 tsp. vanilla; 3/4 c. marshmallow fluff; 3/4 tsp. cinnamon

Desserts

Aug 22

Written By Kali Terry

Autumn is upon us, and there’s nothing quite like a cozy afternoon with the warm aroma of freshly baked cupcakes wafting through the kitchen. But these aren’t just any cupcakes — they’re Gluten-Free Banana Cupcakes topped with the dreamy, pillowy sweetness of cinnamon marshmallow buttercream. If you're looking for a treat that’s as comforting as it is delicious, these cupcakes will make your fall gatherings unforgettable.

banana cupcake with frosting and walnuts

Jump to Recipe

The Heart of Fall in Every Bite

These banana cupcakes are more than just a dessert; they’re a celebration of everything that’s wonderful about fall. The ripe bananas lend a natural sweetness, while the cinnamon marshmallow buttercream adds an unexpected twist that feels as warm as your favorite sweater. The flavor combo is rich yet light, making each bite a satisfying experience. The buttery, smooth texture of the cupcake balances beautifully with the fluffy, spiced topping. It's the kind of dessert that brings out feelings of nostalgia, evoking memories of crisp days and golden leaves.

What makes these cupcakes particularly delightful is their balance of textures. The banana base is soft, moist, and tender. The cinnamon marshmallow buttercream, on the other hand, is just the right amount of airy, sweet, and creamy. It almost melts on your tongue, leaving a subtle warmth from the cinnamon that pairs perfectly with the banana flavor. The fresh, chopped walnuts give an addictive crunch and earthiness that ties the whole cupcake together.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with This Recipe

Whether you’re gluten-free by choice or necessity, you’ll be impressed by how these cupcakes stand up to their gluten-filled counterparts. The cupcakes are not only light and fluffy but also hearty enough to keep you coming back for more. You don’t have to sacrifice texture or taste when baking gluten-free treats. This recipe uses a careful balance of gluten-free flour that results in the perfect crumb, moist without being too dense.

The cinnamon marshmallow buttercream is the real star, though. It’s fluffy, airy, and rich with a light kick of cinnamon. Marshmallow fluff adds a unique twist, providing a sweetness that isn’t overpowering, and creating a smooth texture that complements the banana base perfectly. The cinnamon brings a warm, spicy note that makes this cupcake feel like a comforting hug.

Perfect for Every Fall Occasion

These cupcakes aren’t just a treat — they’re an experience. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party, preparing a dessert table for a fall-themed gathering, or just indulging in a sweet snack during your afternoon tea, they’ll always be the center of attention. These cupcakes have a festive flair that makes them perfect for:

Thanksgiving Desserts: The autumn spices in the cinnamon buttercream make them a wonderful complement to traditional fall flavors like pumpkin and apple. They’re easy to make ahead and will look gorgeous on your dessert table.
Fall Birthdays: What better way to celebrate the season than with a fall-inspired treat? The warm cinnamon and sweet banana flavors will delight anyone with a birthday during these cooler months.
Baking with Kids: If you have little ones in the kitchen, they’ll have a blast decorating the cupcakes with their favorite fall-themed sprinkles or even a dusting of extra cinnamon sugar. It’s a fun, hands-on way to get them involved in the joy of fall baking.
Afternoon Coffee Breaks: The cinnamon in the buttercream complements the warmth of a hot cup of coffee or tea, making these cupcakes the ideal snack during your afternoon break.

A Gluten-Free Delight That’s Surprisingly Easy to Make

While these cupcakes taste gourmet, they’re surprisingly easy to prepare. Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone just getting started, this recipe is forgiving and accessible. With a few simple ingredients and a little bit of patience, you’ll be able to pull off these show-stopping treats without breaking a sweat.

Unlike some gluten-free recipes that can be dense or tough, these cupcakes are tender and light, thanks to the perfect blend of gluten-free flour and bananas. The cinnamon marshmallow buttercream adds a fun, whimsical touch that’s sure to impress. Plus, the ingredients are likely to be staples in your pantry, so you won’t need to make a special trip to the store.

What You’ll Love About Making This Recipe:

Minimal prep time: No complicated steps or techniques — it’s all about mixing, baking, and decorating.
Naturally sweetened: The ripe bananas provide a natural sweetness, so you won’t need to rely on added sugars.
Flexible: It’s easy to adjust the level of cinnamon in the buttercream to suit your personal taste.
Perfect for any skill level: Whether you’re an amateur baker or a pro, this recipe is straightforward and satisfying.

The Ideal Texture: A Perfectly Balanced Cupcake

Let’s talk about texture for a moment. The cupcakes themselves are moist and fluffy, thanks to the ripe bananas. When you bite into one, you experience the soft crumb that is light yet filling, offering just the right amount of chew without being overly dense. The banana flavor is subtle but present — not too overpowering, just enough to give the cupcake a deliciously familiar flavor profile.

Then, there’s the frosting. The cinnamon marshmallow buttercream has an airy, cloud-like quality. The marshmallow fluff creates a smooth and pillowy texture, while the cinnamon spice adds warmth. It doesn’t overwhelm the delicate flavor of the banana, but rather enhances it, creating an indulgent yet balanced flavor experience.

Elevate Your Cupcakes with These Fun Toppings

Want to take these banana cupcakes to the next level? We love to sprinkle them with walnuts, but consider these fun and easy toppings that will give them an extra dose of fall flair:

Candied Pecans: Crushed candied pecans add a nice crunch that complements the soft, moist cupcake.
Caramel Drizzle: A light drizzle of homemade or store-bought caramel sauce will make each cupcake feel even more decadent.
Mini Chocolate Chips: A sprinkle of mini chocolate chips on top of the buttercream will add some extra sweetness and texture.
Fall Sprinkles: If you’re serving them at a party, don’t forget to add fun fall-themed sprinkles — think pumpkins, leaves, or even tiny acorns.

Let the baking begin!

TIPS AND TRICKS:

- Always preheat your oven.

- All refrigerated ingredients should be room temperature unless stated otherwise.

- Be sure to use Crisco brand shortening. All other shortening brands tend to make the frosting greasy.

- You will have some extra frosting, so load up a few of the cupcakes with a generous mound!

These Gluten-Free Banana Cupcakes with cinnamon marshmallow buttercream are the perfect fall treat that everyone can enjoy, regardless of dietary restrictions. They’re warm, comforting, and bursting with the flavors of the season. Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a cozy afternoon with a friend, or simply indulging in a personal treat, these cupcakes are a delicious way to celebrate the crisp autumn air.

So, why not bake a batch (or two) today? The soft, moist cupcakes paired with the dreamy cinnamon marshmallow buttercream will quickly become your go-to dessert for all things fall. With each bite, you’ll feel the cozy comfort of the season, and before you know it, these cupcakes will become a cherished fall tradition.