Indulge in the rich and wholesome flavors of our Delicious Almond Flour Banana Bread. Inspired by traditional banana bread recipes, this version takes a healthier and unique twist with the use of almond flour and the superfood – hemp hearts. Not only does this bread boast a moist and nutty texture, but it also offers a myriad of health benefits, making it a perfect treat for both taste and nutrition. Not to mention it’s gluten-free, Paleo-friendly, and vegan if you so desire!
Nutritional Highlights
Our Almond Flour Banana Bread isn’t just about taste; it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Here’s a breakdown of its star ingredients:
- Almond Flour: A gluten-free alternative to regular flour, almond flour is low in carbs and high in healthy fats, protein, and vitamin E.
- Hemp Hearts: These tiny seeds are nutritional gems. Packed with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, they’re also an excellent source of protein, making them a heart-healthy addition to any meal.
đź’ Curious about other culinary uses for hemp hearts? Dive into our guide on how you can incorporate hemp hearts into your daily routine.
Unveiling the Goodness Within Almond Flour Banana Bread
Discover the delightful bundle of health perks found in every mouthful of almond flour banana bread:
- Nutrient Infusion: Almond flour brings to the table a rich mix of goodies, from protein and fiber to those beneficial fats we all adore. And let’s not forget the dash of vitamin E, magnesium, and potassium for that extra nutritional boost.
- Embracing Gluten Freedom: Dive into a world of gluten-free goodness as almond flour takes center stage, catering to those with gluten sensitivities or those who simply prefer to dance to the gluten-free tune.
- Smart Carb Choices: Compared to its wheat counterpart, almond flour offers a ticket to the low-carb party—ideal for those who like to keep tabs on their carbohydrate intake.
- Sailing the Sugar Waves: Almond flour isn’t just cool; it’s a maestro of blood sugar control. With a low glycemic index, it ensures that those sugar levels remain steady, steering clear of any rollercoaster rides.
- Heartfelt Happiness: Give a shout-out to almond flour’s dynamic duo of heart-healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, joining forces to take down cholesterol levels and lower the risk of heart-related issues.
- The Satisfaction Solution: Almond flour isn’t just any flour; it’s your satiety sidekick. With longer-lasting fullness, it’s a secret weapon against unnecessary snacking, paving the way for a balanced calorie count.
But here’s the deal—keep in mind that the magic of almond flour banana bread hinges on the recipe you choose. If the sugar or not-so-friendly fats take center stage, it might dim the spotlight on all the awesomeness we’ve just uncovered. So, go ahead and pick your banana bread adventure wisely!
Delicious Almond Flour Banana Bread
12
servings5
minutes55
minutes1
hourÂCrafted with love and simplicity, this delightful almond flour banana bread recipe might just become your new banana bread favorite. It’s straightforward preparation and delectable taste make it a contender for the title of the most satisfying banana bread in your repertoire. What sets it apart, though, is the nutritious twist it boasts, courtesy of hemp hearts. Beyond its remarkable flavor, this recipe holds the promise of being a nourishing indulgence. A unanimous family hit! To add to its appeal, it’s a welcome treat for those following a vegan, Paleo, or gluten-free lifestyle.
Ingredients
2 cups almond flour
3Â medium to large over-ripened bananas
3 tbsp hemp hearts
2 eggs
(Vegan version: Eggs may be substituted with flax eggs for a plant-based option or 2 teaspoons of egg replacer combined with 6 tablespoons of water.)½ tsp salt
1 tbsp baking powder
½ tsp pure vanilla extract
Directions
- Preparation: Begin by preheating your oven to 325°F (165°C). Grease or line a 9×5-inch loaf pan to prevent the banana bread from sticking.
- Mixing the Batter: In a larger mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they turn into a smooth puree. Add the eggs, melted coconut oil, and vanilla extract to the banana puree. Mix these wet ingredients together until well combined.
- Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the almond flour, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. These dry ingredients will form the foundation of your banana bread’s texture and flavor.
- Combining Wet and Dry: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients. Stir until a smooth batter forms. At this point, you can also fold in any optional mix-ins, such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits, for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
- Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Place the pan on the center rack of your preheated oven. Bake for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs.
- Cooling and Serving: Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. This cooling period helps the bread to set and become easier to handle.
- Afterward, carefully run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the bread. Gently transfer the banana bread onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. If you attempt to remove the bread from the pan while it’s still hot, it may break apart or become too messy.
- Enjoy: Once the almond flour banana bread has cooled, slice it into your preferred thickness and serve. This delicious treat can be enjoyed on its own, topped with nut butter, or accompanied by a warm cup of coffee or tea.
Tips & Tricks
Master the art of crafting the perfect bowl of keto hemp heart porridge with these tips and tricks.
- Choosing Bananas: The riper the banana, the sweeter and moister your bread will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
- Hemp Hearts: Ensure that you store hemp hearts in a cool, dark place or even in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness. They can turn rancid if exposed to heat or light for extended periods.
- Testing for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your banana bread is ready!
- Variations: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise in every bite. Consider mixing in some walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and extra nutty flavor. Incorporate blueberries or raspberries for a fruity touch. Truly customizable!
Storing & Freezing Your Banana Bread
To keep your Almond Flour Banana Bread fresh and tasty:
- Short-term Storage: Place the bread in an airtight container and store at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Freezing for Later: If you wish to enjoy it later, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Label with the date and freeze. It can be stored frozen for up to 3 months. To consume, thaw at room temperature.
