Moist, nutty, and naturally gluten-free, Almond Flour Banana Bread is a wholesome twist on the beloved classic. Made with ripe bananas and nutrient-rich almond flour, this recipe delivers the same comforting flavor and soft texture you love in traditional banana bread—without the grain or refined flour. It’s perfect for anyone following a gluten-free, low-carb, or grain-free diet, but so delicious that everyone at the table will enjoy it.
What sets almond flour banana bread apart is its rich, slightly nutty flavor and incredibly moist crumb. Almond flour also adds a nutritional boost, providing healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E, making it a smart choice for breakfast, snacking, or dessert. You can keep it simple or customize it with your favorite mix-ins like chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruit.
Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner or just want to switch things up, this banana bread is easy to make, naturally sweetened with bananas (and optionally a touch of maple syrup or honey), and comes together in one bowl. It’s a delicious way to reduce processed ingredients without sacrificing taste or texture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Naturally Gluten-Free – Made entirely with almond flour, perfect for gluten-sensitive eaters.
- Moist and Flavorful – Ripe bananas and almond flour create an ultra-moist, rich texture.
- One Bowl Simplicity – Minimal dishes and easy cleanup.
- Refined Sugar Optional – Naturally sweetened with bananas, with optional honey or maple syrup.
- Customizable – Add nuts, chocolate chips, or spices to suit your taste.
Ingredients
- Ripe bananas
- Almond flour
- Eggs
- Baking soda
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla extract
- Salt
- Honey or maple syrup (optional)
- Coconut oil or butter (melted)
- Optional mix-ins: chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, pecans
Variations
- Low-Carb: Omit sweeteners and use sugar-free chocolate chips or nuts.
- Vegan: Substitute flax eggs and use maple syrup instead of honey.
- Nut-Free Version: Use sunflower seed flour (note: may turn green due to chlorophyll reaction).
- Chocolate Banana Bread: Add cocoa powder and chocolate chips.
- Spiced Version: Add nutmeg, cloves, or pumpkin pie spice for warmth.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients
Mix in eggs, melted coconut oil (or butter), vanilla extract, and honey or maple syrup if using.
Step 4: Add Dry Ingredients
Stir in almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Step 5: Fold in Mix-Ins (Optional)
If using chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit, fold them in now.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour batter into prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 7: Cool and Slice
Allow to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Use very ripe bananas—they add natural sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter; gentle folding yields a tender crumb.
- Line your loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Store in the fridge for longer shelf life—it stays moist for days.
- Slice after the bread is fully cooled to prevent crumbling.
How to Serve
- Serve warm with a smear of nut butter or butter.
- Pair with coffee or tea for breakfast or a midday snack.
- Top with yogurt and fresh fruit for a complete meal.
- Toast slices and drizzle with honey for a cozy treat.
- Serve with a scoop of ice cream for dessert.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing
Wrap slices individually or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat slices in the microwave for 10–20 seconds or in a toaster oven for a crisp edge.
FAQs
1. Can I use coconut flour instead of almond flour?
No, coconut flour absorbs more liquid and isn’t a 1:1 substitute.
2. Is almond flour banana bread keto-friendly?
It can be if you omit sweeteners and use low-carb mix-ins.
3. Can I make muffins instead?
Yes, pour the batter into muffin tins and bake for 20–25 minutes.
4. Why did my bread sink in the middle?
This may be due to underbaking or overmixing the batter.
5. Do I need to refrigerate it?
If not eaten within a day or two, refrigerate to maintain freshness.
6. Can I reduce the number of eggs?
Eggs provide structure. Reducing them may make the bread more fragile unless using flax eggs.
7. Is it safe for people with nut allergies?
No, almond flour is made from almonds. Use seed flour as an alternative if needed.
8. How do I know when it’s done?
A toothpick should come out clean from the center, and the top should be golden brown.
9. What kind of almond flour should I use?
Use blanched, finely ground almond flour for the best texture.
10. Can I use a different oil?
Yes, melted butter, avocado oil, or olive oil all work well.
Conclusion
Almond Flour Banana Bread is a wholesome, gluten-free alternative that doesn’t skimp on taste or texture. Moist, naturally sweet, and incredibly versatile, it’s a great way to enjoy a classic treat in a more nourishing way. Whether you’re cutting back on grains, following a special diet, or simply love banana bread with a twist, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your baking rotation.
PrintAlmond Flour Banana Bread
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 10 slices 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Moist, nutty, and naturally gluten-free, Almond Flour Banana Bread is a healthy twist on the classic favorite. Made with ripe bananas and protein-rich almond flour, this loaf offers a tender crumb and rich flavor without any refined flour or grains. It’s perfect for breakfast, a snack, or even dessert—and so tasty, no one will guess it’s gluten-free!
Ingredients
-
3 medium ripe bananas, mashed
-
2½ cups almond flour (blanched, finely ground)
-
3 large eggs
-
¼ cup melted coconut oil (or butter)
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 tsp baking soda
-
½ tsp ground cinnamon
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¼ tsp salt
-
2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
-
½ cup chocolate chips or chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
-
Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper. -
Mash Bananas:
In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. -
Mix Wet Ingredients:
Add eggs, melted coconut oil, vanilla extract, and honey/maple syrup (if using). Stir until fully combined. -
Incorporate Dry Ingredients:
Add almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until just combined—do not overmix. -
Add Optional Mix-Ins:
Fold in chocolate chips or nuts if using. -
Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. -
Cool & Serve:
Let cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Use bananas with brown spots for best flavor and moisture.
Don’t substitute coconut flour—it’s too absorbent.
For muffins: bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
To make it vegan: use 3 flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed + 2.5 tbsp water per egg).
Store leftovers in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snack, Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: almond flour banana bread, gluten-free banana bread, healthy banana bread, paleo banana bread