Indulge in the delightful blend of classic banana bread and rich coffee cake with this Coffee Cake Banana Bread recipe. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a cozy evening dessert, this recipe combines moist banana bread with a luscious cinnamon streusel topping and a sweet glaze that ties everything together.
Why You’ll Love This Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re hosting a brunch, enjoying a family gathering, or simply craving a sweet snack, this Coffee Cake Banana Bread fits the bill. Its inviting aroma and irresistible flavor make it a crowd-pleaser for any event.
Great Use of Overripe Bananas
Transform those overripe bananas into a delicious treat. This recipe maximizes banana flavor, ensuring that no fruit goes to waste while adding natural sweetness and moisture to the bread.
Delightful Texture Contrast
Experience a perfect balance of textures with the tender banana bread base and the crunchy, crumbly streusel topping. Each bite offers a satisfying mix of soft and crispy elements that enhance the overall eating experience.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure and body.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Helps the bread rise.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda – Works with baking powder for leavening.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds moisture and richness.
- 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread and streusel.
- 2 large eggs – Bind ingredients and add structure.
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas – Adds moisture and banana flavor.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup sour cream – Provides moisture and a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth into the bread.
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the streusel.
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Complements the banana flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed – Creates the crumbly texture.
For the Vanilla Glaze
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens the glaze.
- 2 tablespoons milk – Thinens the glaze to a drizzle consistency.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the glaze flavor.
How to Make Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until creamy and light. This process incorporates air, helping the bread to rise and become fluffy.
Step 4: Add Eggs and Bananas
Blend in the two large eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth.
Step 5: Combine with Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the banana mixture, alternating with the 1/2 cup of sour cream. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, combine 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt. Add the cold, cubed butter and use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Step 7: Assemble the Bread
Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan. Sprinkle half of the streusel topping over the batter. Repeat with the remaining batter and top with the rest of the streusel.
Step 8: Bake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Step 9: Cool and Glaze
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, prepare the vanilla glaze by mixing powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the top of the bread.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the Coffee Cake Banana Bread and serve. Enjoy it warm or at room temperature with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
Tips for the Best Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Choose Ripe Bananas
For optimal sweetness and moisture, use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots. They mash easily and blend seamlessly into the batter.
Mash Bananas Thoroughly
Ensure the bananas are well-mashed to prevent large lumps in your bread. A smooth consistency promotes an even texture.
Accurate Measurement
When measuring flour, spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents using too much flour, which can make the bread dense.
Gentle Mixing
Combine the wet and dry ingredients just until they’re incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a tough bread. Mixing by hand is preferable to maintain a tender crumb.
Customize Your Streusel
Feel free to add chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to the streusel for extra crunch. Chocolate chips or dried fruit can also be added for a unique twist.
Check for Doneness
Oven temperatures can vary. Start checking the bread a few minutes before the recommended baking time. It’s done when a toothpick comes out clean or with a few crumbs.
Let It Cool
Allow the bread to cool completely before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting into the bread and ensures it sets properly.
Store Properly
Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to four days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week or freeze for up to three months.
How to Store Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Room Temperature
Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature. It stays fresh for up to four days, making it perfect for quick snacks or breakfast slices.
Refrigeration
For longer freshness, store the bread in the refrigerator for up to one week. This is ideal if you plan to enjoy the bread over several days.
Freezing
Wrap the completely cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to three months. To thaw, place the bread in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Reheating
To enjoy the bread warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, warm the entire loaf in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes.
Refresh the Glaze
After storing, the glaze may soak into the bread. Prepare a fresh batch of vanilla glaze and drizzle it over the slices before serving for that perfect sweet finish.
Variations and Add-Ins
Nutty Enhancements
Incorporate chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds into the batter or streusel for added crunch and flavor.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight
Add chocolate chips to the batter or sprinkle cocoa nibs within the streusel for a rich chocolate twist.
Fruity Additions
Mix dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or chopped dates into the batter for extra sweetness and texture.
Coconut Flakes
Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical flavor and chewy texture that complements the banana.
Spiced Up
Enhance the warming spices by adding a pinch of nutmeg or allspice to the batter for deeper flavor notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, you can use an 8×8-inch or a 9×13-inch pan. Adjust the baking time accordingly. A larger pan may require less time, while a smaller pan may need more.
Can I make this bread without sour cream?
Yes, you can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt or buttermilk to maintain moisture and tenderness.
How fresh should the bananas be?
Use bananas that are very ripe with brown spots. Overripe bananas ensure the best flavor and texture.
Can I make the streusel ahead of time?
Absolutely. You can prepare the streusel up to a day in advance and store it in an airtight container until ready to use.
More Coffee Cake Recipes You’ll Love
- Blueberry Coffee Cake – Bursting with fresh blueberries and a sweet crumb topping.
- Pumpkin Coffee Cake – Infused with pumpkin puree and warm spices for a seasonal treat.
- Coffee Cake Muffins – Portable versions of classic coffee cake, perfect for on-the-go mornings.
- Coffee Cake Cookies – Simple cookies that capture the essence of coffee cake in every bite.
Enjoy creating and sharing this delightful Coffee Cake Banana Bread with your loved ones. Its harmonious blend of flavors and textures is sure to make it a staple in your baking repertoire.
Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Coffee cake banana bread is full of sweet banana flavor. It has plenty of warm cinnamon. Better yet, it’s topped with yummy streusel. It also includes vanilla glaze!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2-3 tablespoons milk
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Grease a 9x9-inch baking pan. Line the pan with parchment paper. Leave an overhang on the sides.
- Make the cake. In a medium bowl, whisk the flour. Add the baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, beat the butter and sugars with an electric mixer until creamy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. Scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl as needed.
- Add the eggs. Mix until well blended. Stir in the mashed bananas. Then, add the vanilla. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and sour cream. Stir by hand until just combined.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan. In a small bowl, combine the cinnamon and sugar. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter. Then, dollop and gently spread the remaining batter over the top. Set aside.
- Make the streusel. In a small bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender. Alternatively, rub the butter between your fingers. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the batter in the pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes. Insert a toothpick into the center to check if it comes out clean. If the top is browning too quickly, tent with aluminum foil.
- Take the cake out of the oven and leave it to cool in the pan for 15 minutes. Then use the parchment overhang to lift the cake out. Place it on a wire rack to cool fully.
- Make the glaze. In a small bowl, mix the powdered sugar with 2 tablespoons of milk and the vanilla until smooth. If needed, add more milk. The consistency should be thick but pourable.
- Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. Let it set. Then slice, serve, and enjoy!
