If you’re looking for the perfect comfort bread that combines cozy spices with a nutty twist, this Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread Recipe is a must-try. Bursting with warm pumpkin pie spices, a whisper of ground ginger, and the uniquely rich flavor of tahini, this banana bread elevates the classic to something truly special. Moist, tender, and beautifully balanced with molasses and maple syrup sweetness, it’s a treat that feels homemade and utterly irresistible with each bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread Recipe plays a vital role, either enhancing the flavor, enriching the texture, or adding to the warm color that makes this bread so inviting. With wholesome flours and natural sweeteners, these simple components come together to create a loaf you’ll want to bake again and again.
- 1 cup mashed ripe banana: Provides natural sweetness and moistness, the base flavor that makes banana bread beloved.
- 2 large eggs: Acts as a binder and adds richness to the batter for tender slices.
- 1/3 cup tahini, well-stirred: Adds a subtle nutty depth and creamy texture, a unique twist that sets this bread apart.
- 1/4 cup molasses: Brings robust sweetness and that quintessential gingerbread depth.
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Enhances sweetness naturally with a smooth, caramel-like note.
- 3 tablespoons melted and cooled butter or coconut oil: Adds moistness and richness while balancing the texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Rounds out the flavor with a warm, fragrant touch.
- 1 1/4 cup almond flour: Contributes moistness and a subtle nutty flavor, perfect for gluten-free baking.
- 1/2 cup oat flour: Adds structure and a mild sweetness with an earthy tone.
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice: Infuses the batter with cozy notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger: Gives a bright, zesty kick that highlights the gingerbread theme.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the loaf rise perfectly, keeping it light and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to lift the bread and improve texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and intensifies the overall flavor.
How to Make Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the right heat while you mix. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly coat it with non-stick spray to guarantee your bread releases effortlessly after baking.
Step 2: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, tahini, molasses, maple syrup, melted butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract. This blend creates the moist, flavorful foundation of the loaf, blending sweetness with creamy tahini for a silky batter.
Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients
Mix in the almond flour, oat flour, pumpkin pie spice, ground ginger, baking powder, baking soda, and salt using a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until just combined. The spices and flours will infuse the batter with that classic gingerbread aroma and give structure, making every slice tender yet sturdy.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Pour the smooth batter into your prepared pan, smoothing the top gently. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. Once baked, cool the loaf in the pan on a wire rack for about 15 minutes before transferring to cool completely for at least 1 to 2 hours. Patience here rewards you with perfect slicing consistency.
Step 5: Optional Maple Glaze
If you want to add a touch of glossy sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar, pure maple syrup, milk of choice, and melted butter or coconut oil to craft a luscious glaze. Drizzle it over your cooled bread for a beautiful finish and delicious extra flavor. You can even double the glaze recipe if you love that finishing touch.
How to Serve Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Top your slices with a light spread of softened butter or some tangy cream cheese to complement the bread’s warm spices. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle chopped walnuts or a dusting of cinnamon atop the glaze—simple details that make every bite feel special.
Side Dishes
This banana bread pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt to balance its sweetness. Enjoy it alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee to enhance the cozy, comforting experience that this Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread Recipe offers.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress at brunch or a holiday gathering? Slice the bread thick and serve it stacked with layers of nut butter and banana slices, or cut into cubes for a delightful French toast casserole. Wrapped in parchment paper and tied with twine, it also makes a charming homemade gift!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your loaf fresh by storing it at room temperature in an airtight container for up to three days. If you want to extend the shelf life, refrigerate it wrapped tightly for an additional three days. This way, the Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread Recipe remains moist and flavorful without drying out.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Slice it before freezing in an airtight, freezer-safe container or freezer bag, and it will keep for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight at room temperature for a quick and satisfying treat.
Reheating
For perfectly warm slices, reheat your banana bread in a toaster oven or regular oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. This restores the bread’s freshly baked texture and amps up the comforting aromas of ginger and tahini.
FAQs
Can I substitute tahini with another nut butter?
Absolutely! While tahini gives a distinctive sesame flavor, almond or cashew butter can work as alternatives. Keep in mind this will subtly alter the taste, but it will still make delicious banana bread.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread Recipe uses almond and oat flours, both naturally gluten-free (ensure your oat flour is certified gluten-free if necessary), making it safe for those avoiding gluten.
Can I use regular flour instead of almond and oat flour?
Replacing the flours with all-purpose will change the texture and density but can still work. Use 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour, and keep an eye on baking time as it may differ slightly.
How ripe should the bananas be?
The riper the bananas, the better! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots for optimal sweetness and moisture, which positively impacts the bread’s flavor and texture.
Is the maple glaze necessary?
The glaze is optional but highly recommended for a touch of extra sweetness and visual appeal. You can skip it if you prefer a simpler loaf or are looking to reduce sugar.
Final Thoughts
There’s something deeply comforting about a slice of warm, spiced banana bread, and this Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread Recipe truly delivers on that feeling. It’s a humble loaf with a surprising twist, perfect for breakfasts, snacks, or sharing with friends. I can’t wait for you to bake it, savor its rich flavors, and make it a new favorite in your kitchen just as it has become in mine!
Print
Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50-55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes (including cooling time not counted)
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 8-10 servings)
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Gingerbread-Tahini Banana Bread is a moist, flavorful loaf featuring ripe bananas, nutty tahini, warm pumpkin pie spices, and a hint of molasses and maple syrup. Made with almond and oat flours for a tender crumb, it’s a wholesome twist on classic banana bread that’s naturally gluten-free and perfect for cozy breakfasts or snacks. The optional maple glaze adds a sweet finish reminiscent of holiday gingerbread treats.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup thoroughly mashed ripe banana (about 3 small or 2 large spotted bananas)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup tahini, well-stirred (such as Soom Foods brand)
- 1/4 cup molasses
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 3 Tbsp. melted and cooled butter or coconut oil
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/2 cup oat flour
- 1 Tbsp. pumpkin pie spice
- 1 tsp. ground ginger
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 1/2 tsp. baking soda
- 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
Maple Glaze (optional)
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
- 1 Tbsp. pure maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp. milk of choice
- 2 tsp. melted butter or coconut oil
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan: Preheat your oven to 350ºF. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper and lightly coat it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed banana, eggs, tahini, molasses, maple syrup, melted butter or coconut oil, and vanilla extract. Whisk thoroughly until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the almond flour, oat flour, pumpkin pie spice, ground ginger, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently with a wooden spoon or rubber spatula until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Bake the Bread: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. After baking, let the loaf cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes.
- Cool Completely: Remove the bread from the pan and allow it to cool completely on the wire rack, which usually takes 1 to 2 hours. This step ensures the loaf sets properly and slices cleanly.
- Prepare Maple Glaze: In a medium bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, maple syrup, milk, and melted butter or coconut oil until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread. For more glaze, double the recipe as desired.
Notes
- Nutrition information does not include the optional maple glaze.
- Store the bread at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. After that, refrigerate for up to 3 additional days.
- Freeze leftover bread in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.
