This Almond Croissant Banana Bread offers a delicious twist on traditional banana bread by incorporating the rich, nutty flavors of almonds and the sweetness of ripe bananas. The recipe features a delightful frangipane layer that melds perfectly with the moist, tender loaf, topped with flaked almonds for a crunchy finish. This banana bread is not only flavorful but also gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary preferences.
Why You'll Love This Almond Croissant Banana Bread
- Rich Almond Flavor: Almond flour, almond butter, and almond extract provide a deep, nutty taste that almond lovers will adore.
- Moist and Fluffy Texture: The combination of ripe bananas and coconut oil ensures that the bread remains moist and fluffy.
- Elegant Frangipane Layer: The frangipane adds a creamy, sweet layer in the middle of the bread, elevating it from ordinary to extraordinary.
- Healthier Option: Made with almond flour and natural sweeteners like maple syrup, this bread is a healthier alternative to traditional banana bread.
Perfect Occasion
This Almond Croissant Banana Bread is ideal for brunches, tea parties, or as a sophisticated dessert after a family dinner. It’s also perfect for holiday baking and makes a thoughtful homemade gift.
Decoration Tips
- Enhance with Toppings: Sprinkle additional flaked almonds on top before baking for a more pronounced almond flavor and texture.
- Serve with Style: Slice and serve on a ceramic platter with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.
- Dust with Sweetness: A light dusting of powdered sugar or cinnamon can add a beautiful and tasty finish.
Ingredients
- 3 cups almond flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 3 eggs
For the Frangipane:
- 1/4 cup almond butter
- 2 tsp almond extract
- 4 tbsp maple syrup
Topping:
- Flaked almonds
Prepare for Baking:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F). Line a loaf tin with parchment paper or grease it well.
Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine almond flour, baking powder, and bicarbonate of soda.
Add Wet Ingredients:
- To the dry mixture, add the mashed bananas, maple syrup, coconut oil, and eggs. Stir just until the ingredients are combined, ensuring not to overmix.
Prepare the Frangipane:
- In a separate bowl, mix together almond butter, almond extract, and maple syrup to create the frangipane.
Assemble the Bread:
- Pour half of the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf tin.
- Evenly spread the frangipane mixture over the first layer of batter.
- Top with the remaining batter.
- Sprinkle flaked almonds over the top for a crunchy finish.
Bake:
- Place in the oven and bake for about 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the tin before slicing and serving. Enjoy this unique and flavorful Almond Croissant Banana Bread, a perfect treat for any occasion that combines the best of almonds and bananas in every delicious bite!