If you’re on the lookout for a cozy, comforting treat that feels like a warm hug in bread form, this Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. It takes the beloved flavors of ripe bananas and transforms them into a moist, tender loaf, then crowns it with a buttery cinnamon-sugar crumb topping that brings the perfect amount of crunch. Whether it’s for your morning coffee ritual or an afternoon snack, this recipe blends the best parts of coffee cake and banana bread into one irresistible bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting ready to make this Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe is a breeze because the ingredients are simple yet so important. Each one plays a special role—from bananas that bring natural sweetness and moisture, to cinnamon and vanilla that weave the warm, comforting flavors through every crumb.
- 3-4 medium or large bananas: Choose very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and a rich banana flavor.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the bananas perfectly.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and flavor, making every bite more fragrant.
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives a subtle warmth and spice that lifts the banana taste.
- 1/2 cup butter (softened): Creates a tender crumb and richness in the bread’s texture.
- 1 cup sugar: Balances the natural banana sweetness with classic granulated sugar for structure.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add moisture for a soft texture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, lending structure to hold everything together.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the bread rise beautifully and gives it a light texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tang, keeping the bread luscious.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping): Adds extra flavor to the crumbly coffee cake topping.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Helps form the crumbly texture of the coffee cake topping.
- 1 cup brown sugar (for topping): Mixes with cinnamon and butter to make that addictive crumbly layer.
- 6 tablespoons cold butter (for topping): Cut into the topping mixture to create the perfect buttery crumble.
How to Make Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the bananas and wet ingredients
Start by mashing your ripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth and slightly chunky—that natural banana sweetness is the heart of this Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe. Stir in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon to infuse those warm, aromatic notes right away.
Step 2: Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and white sugar until fluffy and light. This step is crucial because it incorporates air into the batter, giving your bread a tender crumb. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is well combined to keep the batter smooth and luscious.
Step 3: Combine dry ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients give the bread its structure and help it rise just enough without becoming dense.
Step 4: Mix wet and dry ingredients, add sour cream
Fold the mashed banana mixture into the creamed butter and sugar, then gradually add the dry ingredients. Finally, stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt—this keeps the bread moist and adds a subtle tang that cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
Step 5: Prepare the coffee cake topping
Now comes the star of the show—the topping! In a bowl, combine the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon. Cut the cold butter into the mixture using a fork or pastry cutter until it resembles coarse crumbs. This topping will give your banana bread the irresistible crumbly texture that makes it feel like a special treat.
Step 6: Assemble and bake
Pour the banana bread batter into a greased loaf pan, then evenly sprinkle the coffee cake topping over the surface. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma during baking is intoxicating—the perfect sign that your Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe is almost ready to enjoy.
How to Serve Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your slice, sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top or add a light drizzle of honey or maple syrup. A handful of chopped walnuts or pecans can also add a delightful crunch if you want some extra texture.
Side Dishes
This Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, naturally, but also creamy whipped yogurt or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist. Fresh fruit like berries can add a refreshing contrast to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread thickly and serve it toasted with a smear of cream cheese or nut butter for a brunch spread. You could even turn it into a decadent French toast by dipping slices in egg wash and frying until golden. Sharing this at your next gathering? Arrange slices on a pretty platter with garnishes for a welcoming display.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container, your Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe will keep well at room temperature for up to 3 days. Refrigeration extends freshness but can dry out the bread slightly, so bring it back to room temperature before eating.
Freezing
This banana bread freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the entire loaf in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. Just thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Reheating
To warm leftover slices, pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or toast them lightly for a crisp edge and soft center. Reheating brings back that freshly baked feeling that makes this Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe so comforting.
FAQs
Can I use ripe bananas that are a little overripe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe because they’re sweeter and easier to mash, which enhances the bread’s natural flavor and moisture.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that works for baking. The texture might be slightly different, but the flavor will stay delicious.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Mixing in a half cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to your Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe.
What if I don’t have sour cream or Greek yogurt?
You can substitute with buttermilk or even a little extra mashed banana for moisture, though sour cream and yogurt do add a nice tang and richness.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is ready. If batter sticks to it, give it a few more minutes and check again.
Final Thoughts
Try this Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe the next time you want a baked good that’s both familiar and a little extra special. Its tender banana bread base combined with a buttery cinnamon crumb topping is such a winner every time. Baking it fills your home with a cozy aroma and sharing it makes for joyful moments around any table. I can’t wait for you to taste the magic of this recipe!
Print
Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Baking
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Coffee Cake Banana Bread is a delightful combination of moist banana bread infused with warm cinnamon and vanilla flavors, topped with a crumbly, sweet coffee cake streusel. The rich, ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the cinnamon-sugar crumble topping adds a perfect crunchy contrast, making each slice a delicious breakfast treat or dessert.
Ingredients
Banana Bread
- 3–4 medium or large bananas
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup butter (softened)
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt
Coffee Cake Topping
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 6 tablespoons cold butter
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mash the bananas: In a large mixing bowl, mash 3-4 medium or large ripe bananas with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar until smooth.
- Add wet ingredients: To the mashed bananas, add 1 1/2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1/2 cup softened butter, 1 cup sugar, and 2 large eggs. Mix until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, then stir in 2 tablespoons of sour cream or Greek yogurt to keep the bread moist. Mix until just combined—do not overmix.
- Prepare the coffee cake topping: In another bowl, combine 1 cup all-purpose flour, 1 cup brown sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and 6 tablespoons cold butter cut into small cubes. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the bread: Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Sprinkle the coffee cake topping evenly over the batter.
- Bake the bread: Bake in the preheated oven for about 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the topping is golden and crisp.
- Cool and serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy as a breakfast treat or dessert.
Notes
- Use overripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture.
- If you prefer a tangier flavor, substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt.
- If you don’t have a pastry cutter, you can use two forks or your fingertips to blend the butter into the topping.
- Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
- This recipe can be doubled and baked in two loaf pans if desired.
