Almond Flour Banana Bread
The Almond Flour Banana Bread is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the nutty flavor of almond flour, making it a perfect choice for breakfast or as a snack. This recipe is not only low in carbs but also gluten-free, satisfying your cravings without the guilt. With its soft and fluffy texture, this bread is ideal for any occasion—whether you’re hosting friends, enjoying a quiet morning at home, or meal prepping for the week.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy Option: This Almond Flour Banana Bread is low in calories and carbs, making it a nutritious choice for health-conscious eaters.
- Simple to Make: With just a few steps and common ingredients, you’ll have delicious banana bread ready in no time.
- Versatile Add-ins: Customize your loaf by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit to suit your taste.
- Perfect Texture: The combination of almond flour and ripe bananas creates a moist and fluffy bread that everyone will enjoy.
- Great for Meal Prep: Bake ahead of time and store slices in the fridge or freezer for quick breakfasts or snacks throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Almond Flour Banana Bread, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make your process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×5 loaf pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Parchment paper or butter for greasing
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×5 loaf pan: The right size ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your bread.
- Mixing bowls: Having multiple bowls allows for organized mixing of wet and dry ingredients separately.
- Whisk: A whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, leading to a fluffier bread.
- Parchment paper: Lining your pan with parchment makes it easy to remove the bread without sticking.
Ingredients
The BEST Soft & fluffy low-carb healthy Almond Flour Banana Bread is only 210 calories and 9 net carbs per serving. It’s sweetened with maple syrup, has ripe bananas, and the perfect touch of cinnamon in every bite. It’s fluffy, moist, and super simple to make.
For the Batter
- 2 ripe bananas (about 1 cup mashed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted; can sub with butter or avocado oil)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups almond flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chocolate chips or favorite add-ins
How to Make Almond Flour Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it with butter. This step ensures that your banana bread won’t stick during baking.
Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, add the ripe bananas and mash them until smooth. Then, add the eggs, maple syrup (or honey), melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Use a whisk to combine all these ingredients thoroughly.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, stir together almond flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Mix these dry ingredients well before adding them to the wet mixture. This helps distribute leavening agents evenly.
Step 4: Mix Together
Pour the dry mixture into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined; avoid over-mixing. If you’re adding chocolate chips or other mix-ins, fold them in carefully at this stage.
Step 5: Bake Your Bread
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 50-55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when done.
Step 6: Cool Before Slicing
Once baked, remove from oven and let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely before slicing into this delicious Almond Flour Banana Bread!
How to Serve Almond Flour Banana Bread
Almond Flour Banana Bread is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it with various toppings and pairings. Here are some creative ways to serve this delightful treat.
Spread the Love
- Nut Butter – Spread almond or peanut butter on top for added protein and a creamy texture.
- Cream Cheese – A layer of softened cream cheese can add a tangy contrast to the sweetness of the bread.
- Honey or Maple Syrup – Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup for extra sweetness and moisture.
Fresh Fruit
- Sliced Strawberries – Fresh strawberries add a vibrant color and refreshing taste that pairs well with banana bread.
- Berries Medley – A mix of blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries complements the flavors perfectly.
Beverages
- Coffee – A warm cup of coffee brings out the rich flavors in your banana bread.
- Herbal Tea – Enjoy with chamomile or mint tea for a soothing experience.
How to Perfect Almond Flour Banana Bread
To ensure your Almond Flour Banana Bread turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Ripe Bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
- Measure Accurately – Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements of almond flour; too much can lead to dense bread.
- Avoid Overmixing – Mix until just combined to keep the texture light and fluffy.
- Check Oven Temperature – Ovens can vary, so use an oven thermometer to ensure yours is accurate. This helps in proper baking time.
- Add Texture with Nuts – Consider folding in nuts like walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
- Cool Completely Before Slicing – Allowing the bread to cool fully prevents sogginess when slicing.
Best Side Dishes for Almond Flour Banana Bread
Pairing your Almond Flour Banana Bread with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some excellent options.
- Greek Yogurt – A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a protein boost, making it perfect for breakfast.
- Fruit Salad – A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits provides a colorful and healthy side that balances sweetness.
- Chia Seed Pudding – The nutty flavor of chia pudding makes it an interesting contrast alongside banana bread.
- Scrambled Eggs – Protein-packed scrambled eggs create a hearty breakfast option when served together.
- Smoothie Bowl – Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl for a nutritious complement to your banana bread.
- Oatmeal – A warm bowl of oatmeal with cinnamon offers additional fiber and makes for a filling meal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Almond Flour Banana Bread, it’s easy to make mistakes that can affect the final product. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Incorrect banana ripeness: Using unripe bananas can lead to a less sweet and flavorful bread. Always choose ripe bananas with brown spots for the best taste.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to dense bread. Mix just until combined for a fluffy texture.
- Not measuring almond flour properly: Almond flour can be compacted, leading to too much flour in your recipe. Use the spoon-and-level method for accurate measurements.
- Skipping the cooling time: Cutting into the bread too soon can cause it to crumble. Allow it to cool completely on a rack before slicing.
- Neglecting add-ins: While optional, chocolate chips or nuts add flavor and texture. Don’t skip these unless you have dietary restrictions.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Place parchment paper between slices to prevent sticking.
Freezing Almond Flour Banana Bread
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
- Label with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Almond Flour Banana Bread
- Oven: Preheat to 350F and heat slices for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat each slice for about 15-20 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat, flipping until both sides are warm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions people have about Almond Flour Banana Bread.
How do I make Almond Flour Banana Bread gluten-free?
Almond flour is naturally gluten-free, so this recipe is perfect if you’re avoiding gluten. Just ensure other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I substitute maple syrup in this recipe?
Yes! You can use honey or agave syrup as alternatives if desired.
How do I know when my Almond Flour Banana Bread is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready!
What can I add to my Almond Flour Banana Bread?
You can include nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture. Customize it as you like!
Final Thoughts
This Almond Flour Banana Bread is not only soft and fluffy but also low in carbs, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or snacks. Feel free to customize it with your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips. Enjoy this delightful treat that’s sure to satisfy any craving!
Almond Flour Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Almond Flour Banana Bread, a moist and fluffy treat that perfectly balances the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the nutty essence of almond flour. This low-carb and gluten-free recipe is ideal for breakfast or a guilt-free snack, making it a favorite among health-conscious eaters. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can customize your loaf with nuts or chocolate chips to suit your taste. Enjoy slices on their own, or elevate them with nut butter or fresh fruit for a truly satisfying experience.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas (1 cup mashed)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup maple syrup (or honey)
- 1/4 cup coconut oil (melted)
- 3 cups almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: ½ cup chocolate chips or other add-ins
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C) and line a 9×5 loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas and mix in eggs, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry mixture into the wet mixture until just combined. Add chocolate chips if desired.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow cooling in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
