Introduction
Discover the joy of baking with this incredibly easy and healthy almond flour banana bread recipe. It’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, making it a wonderful treat for everyone. This simple recipe guarantees a perfectly moist, flavorful loaf that’s ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert. Get ready to bake a delicious gluten-free banana bread that tastes amazing and is a breeze to prepare!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Almond Flour Banana Bread
This particular almond flour banana bread recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
- It’s quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy schedules.
- A true one-bowl wonder, it minimizes cleanup, saving you time and effort.
- Enjoy a deliciously moist and tender texture that truly satisfies.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free, grain-free, and dairy-free.
- It offers a healthier alternative to traditional banana bread versions.
- Its versatile nature makes it suitable for various dietary needs and preferences.
Ingredients
Crafting this delicious almond flour banana bread begins with a few simple, wholesome ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving that perfect texture and sweet, comforting flavor. Gather these items, and you’ll be well on your way to a delightful treat.
- 2 medium-large ripe bananas (brown spots are best)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups superfine blanched almond flour
Notes & Substitutions
- Bananas: Use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. The science behind why overripe bananas are best for baking highlights how they ensure maximum sweetness and moisture, contributing to a rich banana flavor in your gluten-free banana bread.
- Almond Flour: It’s essential to use superfine blanched almond flour, not almond meal. Almond meal is coarser and will result in a drier, crumblier texture.
- Sweetener: Feel free to substitute granulated sugar with maple syrup, coconut sugar, or your preferred sugar-free alternative. Adjust to your taste.
- Vegan Option: For a vegan almond flour banana bread, replace the large eggs with flax eggs (mix 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed with 6 tablespoons water; let sit for 5 minutes).
- Optional Mix-ins: Enhance your loaf with a handful of chocolate chips, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even a sprinkle of dried fruit.
Equipment
Gathering your equipment before you start makes the baking process smooth and enjoyable. You likely have most of these items in your kitchen already.
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork or potato masher
- Whisk or spatula
- 9×5 inch loaf pan
- Parchment paper (optional, for easy removal)
- Non-stick cooking spray
How To Make Almond Flour Banana Bread
Baking this moist almond flour banana bread is straightforward. Follow these easy steps for a perfect loaf every time. Remember to read through all instructions before you begin.
- Prepare Oven & Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Lightly spray a 9×5 inch loaf pan with gluten-free cooking spray. If you prefer, line it with parchment paper for even easier removal.
- Mash Bananas: In your large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they are mostly smooth. A few small lumps are perfectly fine and add lovely texture.
- Add Dry Leavening & Spice: Stir the baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt directly into the mashed bananas. Mix until these ingredients are fully combined. This helps distribute them evenly throughout the almond flour banana bread batter.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs, pure vanilla extract, and granulated sugar (or your chosen sweetener) to the banana mixture. Whisk everything together thoroughly until all the wet ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
- Combine with Flour: Gently add the superfine blanched almond flour to the wet ingredients. Mix with your spatula or whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter; a few streaks of flour are okay. The batter for this particular almond flour banana bread will be thick.
- Transfer to Pan: Scoop the thick batter into your prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula or the back of a spoon to smooth out the top of the batter evenly.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 50 minutes. All ovens vary, so keep an eye on your bread.
- Check for Doneness: After 50 minutes, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean when the bread is fully baked. If it’s still wet, continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, checking again.
- Cool Completely: This step is crucial for the best texture. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for at least 15-20 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely on the rack before slicing. Cooling fully prevents the bread from crumbling and allows the texture to set beautifully.
- Serve & Enjoy: Once cooled, slice your delicious almond flour banana bread and serve it plain or with your favorite toppings.
Pro Tips for the Best Almond Flour Banana Bread
Achieving the perfect loaf of almond flour banana bread is easy with these simple tips. They’ll help ensure your bread turns out moist, flavorful, and beautifully textured every time.
- Ripe Bananas are Key: Always ensure your bananas have plenty of brown spots. This guarantees maximum natural sweetness and intense banana flavor.
- Measure Flour Correctly: Spoon and level your almond flour into the measuring cup. Scooping directly can compact the flour, leading to a denser loaf.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix the batter until just combined. Overmixing develops gluten (even in almond flour to some extent) and can result in a tougher, drier bread.
- Adjust Baking Time: Ovens vary significantly. Start checking for doneness a few minutes early. If the top browns too quickly, tent it loosely with foil.
- Prevent Over-Browning: If the top of your gluten-free banana bread starts to get too dark before the center is cooked, simply cover it loosely with a piece of aluminum foil for the remaining bake time.
- Cool Fully: This is crucial! Allowing the almond flour banana bread to cool completely on a wire rack ensures it sets properly, making it easier to slice cleanly without crumbling.
For an even easier twist, try our 3-Ingredient Cottage Cheese Banana Bread, a high-protein version that’s just as delicious.
Serving Suggestions, Storage & Variations
This versatile almond flour banana bread is delicious in so many ways. Here are some ideas to enjoy it and keep it fresh.
- Serving: Enjoy a slice plain for a simple treat, or elevate it with a spread of butter, your favorite nut butter, or a dollop of cream cheese. It’s also wonderful warmed slightly.
- Room Temperature Storage: Store any leftover gluten-free banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days. This keeps it moist and fresh.
- Refrigerator Storage: For longer freshness, transfer your cooled almond flour banana bread to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Freezing Instructions: Once completely cooled, wrap the entire loaf or individual slices tightly with foil or plastic wrap. Then place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature.
- Mix-ins: Get creative! Stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a sweeter loaf, or add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. Shredded coconut is another tasty addition.
- Muffins: Transform this recipe into delicious muffins. Pour the batter into a greased muffin tin and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
If you love banana recipes, don’t miss our soft and fluffy Banana Bread Muffins, perfect for quick breakfasts or snacks.
Nutrition
This almond flour banana bread offers a more nutrient-dense option compared to traditional recipes. Healthline provides further insights into why almond flour is a nutritious choice, as it’s naturally high in protein and fiber, which also provides healthy fats. The ripe bananas contribute natural sweetness and essential vitamins.
Almond flour is naturally rich in healthy fats, fiber, and vitamin E, making it a more nutrient-dense choice than regular wheat flour. You can learn more about the health benefits of almond flour from this guide by the Cleveland Clinic.
Note: Calculations are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients, brands, and any substitutions you choose to make.
| Serving Size | Calories | Carbohydrate Content | Protein Content | Fat Content | Saturated Fat Content | Cholesterol Content | Sodium Content | Fiber Content | Sugar Content | Trans Fat Content | Unsaturated Fat Content |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 slice | 413 kcal | 29 g | 14 g | 30 g | 2 g | 37 mg | 182 mg | 7 g | 15 g | 0.004 g | 0.6 g |
FAQ
Find quick answers to common questions about this delicious almond flour banana bread. These insights will help you bake with confidence.
Is almond flour banana bread healthy?
Yes, it is a healthier choice. Almond flour provides protein and fiber, and natural sugars from bananas make it a nourishing treat.
Does almond flour banana bread taste different?
It has a slightly nutty flavor and a wonderfully moist, tender texture due to the almond flour. Many find it even more delicious than traditional versions.
Why is my almond flour banana bread dry/crumbly?
This usually happens from over-baking, using almond meal instead of superfine blanched almond flour, or not using very ripe bananas. Ensure proper measurements and baking times.
Can I use almond meal instead of almond flour?
While possible, superfine blanched almond flour is strongly recommended. Almond meal is coarser and will yield a denser, less delicate texture.
Can I add chocolate chips or nuts?
Absolutely! Stir in about 1/2 cup of chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans with the almond flour for added flavor and texture.
Conclusion
This easy recipe for almond flour banana bread proves that healthy baking can be incredibly delicious and simple. You’ve discovered a naturally gluten-free and dairy-free treat that’s wonderfully moist, flavorful, and made with wholesome ingredients. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a classic comfort food while fitting various dietary needs. Give this foolproof almond flour banana bread a try today; you’ll be delighted by how easy and tasty it is! Please leave a comment and rating if you love it.
The Best Moist Almond Flour Banana Bread (Gluten-Free & Dairy-Free)
Equipment
- Oven
- Loaf Pan
- Large Bowl
- spatula
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 medium-large bananas
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 2 1/2 cups superfine blanched almond flour
Instructions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (177°C) and spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray.
- In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth, then mix in the baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt until combined.
- Stir in the eggs, pure vanilla extract, and granulated sugar until fully combined.
- Fold the almond flour into the banana mixture until just combined.
- Scoop the thick batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake on the center rack for 50 minutes, monitoring closely as oven temperatures vary.
- Let the banana bread cool completely before slicing and serving.