Craving a delicious and wholesome treat? This Paleo Almond Flour Banana Bread is a fantastic way to enjoy a sweet dessert while sticking to a healthy lifestyle. You’ll love how simple it is to make this moist, flavorful loaf, perfect for a healthy banana dessert.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Ripe Bananas: The riper, the sweeter! You can use frozen, thawed bananas if needed.
- Almond Flour: Don’t substitute with other flours like coconut or all-purpose, as the ratios will be different.
- Eggs: Act as a binder. Flax eggs might work for a vegan option, but the texture will differ.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener. You can use honey as an alternative.
- Coconut Oil: Adds moisture. Melted ghee or avocado oil are good substitutes.
- Baking Soda: Essential for rise.
Ingredients:
- 3 very ripe medium bananas, mashed (about 1.5 cups)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup melted coconut oil, plus extra for greasing
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups almond flour, blanched
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 10 slices
- Calories per serving: Approximately 250 kcal
- Tools Needed: Loaf pan, mixing bowls, whisk
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with coconut oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step ensures your healthy banana dessert won’t stick.
2. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth. Add the eggs, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients together until they are well combined.
3. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, combine the almond flour, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
4. Combine Wet and Dry
Pour the dry ingredients into the bowl with the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense loaf.
5. Bake Your Banana Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. This creates a perfect healthy banana dessert.
6. Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slicing it too soon can cause it to crumble.
Variation Ideas:
- Chocolate Chip: Fold in 1/2 cup of paleo-friendly chocolate chips (sugar-free or dark chocolate) with the dry ingredients.
- Nutty: Add 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and healthy fats.
- Spice It Up: Include a pinch of nutmeg or allspice for a warmer flavor profile.
- Fruity Twist: Mix in 1/4 cup of dried cranberries for a tart counterpoint to the sweet bananas.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Paleo Almond Flour Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast it lightly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Q: Can I use green bananas for this recipe?
A: No, very ripe bananas (with brown spots) are essential for sweetness and moisture in this healthy banana dessert.
Q: Why did my banana bread turn out too dense?
A: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense texture. Mix until just combined.
Q: Can I freeze this banana bread?
A: Yes, you can freeze individual slices or the whole loaf for up to 3 months. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
Q: Is almond flour the same as almond meal?
A: No, almond flour is typically blanched (skin removed) and finely ground, while almond meal is coarser and includes the skins. Use blanched almond flour for best results.
Q: Can I make this recipe in muffin form?
A: Yes, you can bake the batter in a muffin tin. Reduce the baking time to 20-25 minutes.
Q: What if I don’t have coconut oil?
A: You can substitute melted ghee or avocado oil in the same quantity.
