If you’re looking for a banana bread that feels both comforting and uniquely luxurious, this Tahini Pistachio Banana Bread Recipe is absolutely the perfect treat to try. Combining the earthy richness of tahini with crunchy, vibrant pistachios and naturally sweet ripe bananas, this loaf offers an irresistible depth of flavor and texture that goes way beyond your ordinary banana bread. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, a snack, or dessert, it’s a heartfelt bake that invites smiles and second helpings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together effortlessly, each playing a vital role in creating a moist, flavorful banana bread with a hint of nuttiness and spice. From the creamy almond flour base to the crunch of pistachios, every element enhances the texture, taste, and color of this delightful loaf.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: Provides natural sweetness and moistness essential to banana bread.
- 1/2 cup tahini: Adds a smooth, nutty undertone that makes this loaf stand out.
- 2 eggs: Binds ingredients together and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup: Sweetens naturally with a hint of caramel flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warm, aromatic notes that beautifully complement the bananas.
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour: Creates a soft, gluten-free base with a subtle nutty taste.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Leavens the bread for a light, airy texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses warmth and spice that balance the sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and rounds out the taste.
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped: Adds delightful crunchy texture and pop of color.
How to Make Tahini Pistachio Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan generously or line it with parchment paper for easy removal and cleaning. Proper preparation ensures your bread doesn’t stick and bakes evenly, setting the stage for success.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, creamy tahini, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir these together until the mixture is nice and smooth, which is key to creating a batter that bakes into a tender and moist loaf. Tahini here beautifully enriches the batter with its nutty depth.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
Add almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined — you want to avoid over-mixing to keep the bread light and fluffy. The almond flour not only gives this banana bread a gluten-free twist but also a delicate nuttiness that pairs perfectly with the tahini and pistachios.
Step 4: Fold in the Pistachios
Carefully fold in most of the chopped pistachios, reserving a handful to sprinkle on top before baking. This step ensures the nutty crunch is dispersed throughout every bite, offering textural contrast and bursts of flavor that perfectly complement the rich banana-tahini base.
Step 5: Bake the Bread to Perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently before scattering the reserved pistachios evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that the bread is perfectly cooked through with a golden top studded with pistachios.
Step 6: Cool and Slice
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time is essential to let the flavors settle and the texture firm up for the best slicing experience without crumbly messes. Plus, the delicious aroma will have you eager to dive in sooner rather than later!
How to Serve Tahini Pistachio Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Top your slices with a light spread of creamy tahini or a drizzle of honey to enhance the nutty flavors even further. A few extra chopped pistachios sprinkled on top add a fresh crunch and beautiful presentation. For a decadent twist, a smear of cream cheese or ricotta pairs wonderfully as well.
Side Dishes
This banana bread shines on its own but pairs surprisingly well with some fresh fruit like berries or sliced apples to add brightness. For a more indulgent treat, serve alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of yogurt for a balanced mix of creamy and fruity contrasts.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn slices into fancy mini sandwiches by spreading nut butter in between two pieces. Or cut the loaf into smaller squares and arrange them on a platter with nuts and dried fruit for a brunch spread that looks as good as it tastes. You can even toast slices lightly and top with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a delightful crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover banana bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to preserve freshness. It will stay moist and delicious at room temperature for up to three days, making it a wonderful grab-and-go snack for busy mornings or afternoon tea.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Tahini Pistachio Banana Bread Recipe longer, it freezes beautifully. Slice beforehand for easy thawing and wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months, then thaw at room temperature or gently warm in the oven.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy refrigerated or frozen bread, warm slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked softness. Avoid microwaving too long as it can make the texture rubbery — a brief gentle heat works wonders to restore deliciousness.
FAQs
Can I substitute almond flour with regular flour in this Tahini Pistachio Banana Bread Recipe?
Yes, you can use all-purpose flour instead, but it will change the texture and nutty flavor slightly. Almond flour adds moistness and a unique taste that complements the tahini, so the end result might be a bit different but still delicious.
Is tahini necessary or can I replace it with something else?
Tahini is key for that distinctive nutty richness in this recipe, but if you don’t have it, you can substitute with peanut butter or almond butter. Keep in mind it will alter the flavor profile, creating a peanutty or almond twist instead of the sesame-based undertone.
Can I add chocolate chips or other mix-ins?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or shredded coconut can make wonderful additions. Just fold them in along with the pistachios for added texture and flavor variety that suits your taste preferences.
How ripe should the bananas be for best results?
Ideally, bananas should be very ripe with plenty of brown spots and softness. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana bread will turn out, helping to balance the earthiness of the tahini perfectly.
Is this Tahini Pistachio Banana Bread Recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Since it uses almond flour instead of wheat flour, this banana bread is naturally gluten-free. It’s a fantastic option for those avoiding gluten while still enjoying an indulgent, moist loaf packed with flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried making the Tahini Pistachio Banana Bread Recipe yet, now is a wonderful time to dive in. It’s such a rewarding bake that offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures — nutty, sweet, soft, and crunchy all at once. Whether you’re baking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this banana bread is sure to become one of your go-to favorites. Happy baking and even happier eating!
Print
Tahini Pistachio Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Tahini Pistachio Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf that beautifully combines the nutty richness of tahini with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and a delightful crunch from chopped pistachios. Using almond flour, this recipe is gluten-free and naturally sweetened with maple syrup, making it a wholesome treat perfect for breakfast or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup tahini
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups almond flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Add-ins
- 1/2 cup pistachios, chopped
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan with butter or oil, or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make removal easier.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, tahini, eggs, maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well blended, ensuring the tahini is evenly incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the almond flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the bread tender.
- Incorporate Pistachios: Fold in most of the chopped pistachios, reserving a small amount to sprinkle on top for added texture and visual appeal.
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently with a spatula. Sprinkle the remaining chopped pistachios on top of the batter.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Test doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- If you want a vegan version, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tbsp water per egg).
- Make sure bananas are very ripe for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
- Store banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- You can toast the chopped pistachios lightly before folding them in to enhance their flavor.
- For a nuttier taste, consider swirling a little extra tahini on top before baking.
