The Best, Healthy Gluten-Free Banana Nut Bread Recipe

Banana bread is a classic comfort food, bridging the gap between dessert and breakfast. Its sweet aroma fills the kitchen, its slices are moist and tender, and it’s the perfect way to use ripe bananas. But when you add walnuts into the mix, it becomes something even more special: gluten-free banana nut bread. The nuts bring texture, crunch, and earthy richness that balance the natural sweetness of the bananas.

For those avoiding gluten, this recipe ensures everyone can enjoy the tradition without compromise. With almond flour, oat flour, or other gluten-free staples, you can create a loaf that’s just as moist and flavorful as its wheat-based counterpart. And because it leans into clean, simple ingredients, it can easily fit into paleo-inspired baking routines too.

Whether served warm with a pat of butter, sliced up for brunch, or tucked into lunchboxes, banana nut bread is endlessly versatile. It’s the kind of baked good that feels homey yet elegant enough to serve to guests, making it a recipe worth keeping in your regular rotation.

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How to Make Gluten-Free Banana Nut Bread

Recipe Details

Yield: 12 mini loafs
Active Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Recipe Ingredients

• 3 1/2 cups almond flour
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla powder
• 1 1/4 teaspoons sea salt
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup light agave
• 1/4 cup grapeseed oil
• 5 large, ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts, plus more for garnish

Recipe Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and spray a mini loaf tray with nonstick spray.
2. Place bananas in the bowl of a food processor and pulse until just blended. Set aside.
3. Whisk together the almond flour, cardamom, cinnamon, vanilla, sea salt, and baking soda in a large bowl.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, agave, and grapeseed oil.
5. Fold the wet ingredients into the dry and thoroughly combine.
6. Fold in the pureed bananas and walnuts. Let dough sit 5 minutes.
7. Divide dough between pre-greased molds, sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top, and bake 15 to 17 minutes.
8. Let loaves cool in molds slightly before serving.

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Gluten-Free Banana Nut Bread Nutrition Facts

*Estimated per mini loaf (recipe yields 12 mini loafs). Based strictly on Thrive Market’s ingredient amounts.

Serving Size	1 mini loaf
Calories	≈ 350 kcal
Protein	≈ 8 g
Carbs	≈ 26 g
Sugar	≈ 12 g
Fiber	≈ 5 g
Fat	≈ 26 g

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Banana Nut Bread Variations & Tips

• Nut swap: Try pecans or hazelnuts instead of walnuts for a different crunch profile.
• Chocolate twist: Stir in dark chocolate chips for a dessert-style loaf.
• Berry boost: Add blueberries or raspberries for pops of freshness and color.
• Mini loaves or muffins: Divide the batter into muffin tins or mini loaf pans for quick bakes and portion control.
• Extra spice: A dash of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even cardamom will deepen the flavor and aroma.
• Toast the nuts: Lightly toast walnuts before mixing in to enhance their crunch and flavor.

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Best Banana Nut Bread Pairings

• Hot coffee or cappuccino — robust flavor complements the sweet, nutty bread.
• Green tea or chai latte — warm spices and mild tannins pair beautifully with banana and walnut.
• Coconut or almond butter spread — adds creaminess and boosts protein.
• Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt — serve a slice alongside for a balanced breakfast.
• Fresh fruit salad — light, juicy counterbalance to the hearty loaf.

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Best Times for Making Banana Nut Bread

• Weekend brunch spreads — a star baked good among eggs, fruit, and coffee.
• Family breakfasts — make ahead and serve sliced during busy mornings.
• Holiday mornings — a festive, nostalgic loaf for gatherings.
• Afternoon snack time — pairs perfectly with tea or coffee for a cozy break.
• Homemade gifts — wrap loaves in parchment for friends or neighbors.

Recipe Video credits
Produced & Directed by: Liza Glucoft
Director of Photography: Naeem Munaf
Editor: Megan Stone
Recipe and Styling by: Merce Muse