Gluten-Free Tahini Banana Bread with Black Sesame Cream Cheese Frosting: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
If you’re on the hunt for a tasty gluten-free treat that combines comfort with a touch of sophistication, look no further than this gluten-free tahini banana bread with black sesame cream cheese frosting. This recipe is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight with its unique flavor combinations and elegant presentation.
Banana bread is a classic that holds a special place in my heart since this was a recipe I grew up with. Its moist, tender crumb and rich banana flavor make it a beloved staple. But why not give it a new twist? Enter tahini – the creamy, nutty paste made from sesame seeds. Tahini adds a subtle depth of flavor and an extra layer of richness to the banana bread, making it an irresistible option for those who crave something a bit different.
Black Sesame Cream Cheese Frosting: A Match Made in Heaven
Now, let’s talk about the frosting. Black sesame seeds are often used in Asian desserts for their deep, nutty flavor and striking color. By incorporating black sesame into a cream cheese frosting, we create a luxurious topping that complements the tahini banana bread perfectly. The result is a visually stunning treat with a flavor profile that’s both familiar and exotic.
Culinary Uses of Black Sesame
1. Black Sesame Paste
Black sesame paste, also known as black tahini, is a rich, creamy spread made from ground black sesame seeds. It’s a popular ingredient in Asian sweets, dressings, and sauces. Use it as a spread on toast, a filling for pastries, or a base for savory sauces.
2. Toppings and Garnishes
Sprinkle toasted black sesame seeds over salads, soups, or roasted vegetables for an added crunch and nutty flavor. They make a beautiful and flavorful garnish for sushi, noodles, or rice dishes.
3. Baking and Cooking
Incorporate black sesame seeds into baked goods such as cookies, muffins, or bread for a distinctive flavor and texture. Black sesame can also be used in savory dishes, such as stir-fries or meat marinades, to add depth and complexity.
Gluten-Free Tahini Banana Bread
Ingredients
- Tahini Banana Bread:
- 3 bananas
- 1/2 cup creamy tahini
- 1/3 cup melted ghee
- 1/2 cup coconut sugar
- 3 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups gluten-free flour blend
- 1/2 cup almond flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp sea salt
- Black Sesame Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz vegan cream cheese *or regular*
- 1/4 cup ghee *room temp*
- 1/4 cup black sesame butter
- 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
- 2 cups organic powdered sugar
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 325°F. Grease and line a square baking dish with parchment paper. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, tahini, melted ghee, coconut sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Then sift in the dry ingredients including the gluten-free flour, almond flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon and sea salt. Stir until all of the dry ingredients are combined with the wet and there are no clubs.
- Pour into the baking dish and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 40-45 mins or until a toothpick comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool.
- In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and ghee together until smooth and creamy. Add the black sesame butter and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until well incorporated.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Place the frosting in the fridge for about an hour until it is chilled.
- Frost the banana bread and decorate with edible flowers and/or edible gold.
