Name: Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 3-4 medium or large bananas; 2 Tbsp brown sugar; 1.5 tsp vanilla extract; 0.75 tsp ground cinnamon; 0.5 cup butter (softened); 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 0.25 tsp salt; 2 Tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt); 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 cup flour; 1 cup brown sugar; 6 Tbsp butter (cold)

Introduction to Coffee Cake Banana Bread

If you’re looking to elevate your baking game, coffee cake banana bread is the delightful fusion you didn’t know you needed. Imagine the moist, comforting texture of banana bread combined with the sweet, crumbly topping of coffee cake. This recipe is not just a treat; it’s a cozy hug on a plate! Great for breakfast, brunch, or a simple afternoon snack, it’s a versatile option that suits any occasion.

Why choose this homemade treat? For starters, it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients—most of which you likely already have in your kitchen. According to a report by the National Coffee Association, nearly 64% of American adults drink coffee daily, making this loaf a perfect companion for your morning brew or an afternoon pick-me-up. The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, while the crumb topping provides that satisfying crunchy contrast.

So, whether you’re entertaining guests, or just indulging in some self-care, this coffee cake banana bread is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Let’s dive into the recipe and whip up some deliciousness!

Ingredients for Coffee Cake Banana Bread

If you're gearing up to bake a delicious coffee cake banana bread, let's dive into the ingredients you'll need! This recipe combines the moistness of bananas with a crumbly topping that will elevate your coffee breaks or brunch gatherings to another level.

Bread

3-4 medium or large bananas – The star of your bread! Ripe bananas are sweeter and provide that signature moisture.
2 tablespoon brown sugar – This adds depth to the flavor and complements the natural sweetness of the bananas.
1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract – A must for enhancing the overall taste!
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Just enough to give that warm aroma you love.
½ cup butter, softened – For a rich, buttery flavor.
1 cup sugar – Balances the bread nicely with sweetness.
2 eggs – Helps with the structure and moisture in your bread.
2 cups all-purpose flour – The base for your bread, giving it the perfect texture.
1 teaspoon baking soda – This is essential for leavening your cake.
¼ teaspoon salt – Just a pinch to enhance the flavors.
2 tablespoon sour cream (or Greek yogurt) – Adds moisture and a slight tanginess.

Crumb Topping

1 teaspoon cinnamon – A delightful addition to your topping.
1 cup flour – For the perfect crumb texture.
1 cup brown sugar – Keeps the topping rich and sweet.
6 tablespoon butter, cold – Helps create that delightful crumbly topping.

This combination of ingredients will result in a moist, flavorful coffee cake banana bread that everyone will love. Don't forget to check out the Banana Bread History for a little fun background while you bake! Happy baking!

Step-by-Step Preparation of Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Baking a delicious coffee cake banana bread is not just a culinary task; it’s an experience filled with comforting aromas and delightful tastes. Follow these steps to create a loaf that’s perfect for brunch or an afternoon treat.

Gather and Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you start, it’s important to gather all your ingredients and tools. Here’s what you need:

3-4 medium or large bananas
2 tablespoon brown sugar
1 ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ cup butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
¼ teaspoon salt
2 tablespoon sour cream (or Greek yogurt)

For the crumb topping:

1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup flour
1 cup brown sugar
6 tablespoon cold butter

Make sure to have your measuring cups and spoons ready, along with two 8x4 pans greased and prepped for the oven. For more on ingredient prepping, check out this helpful kitchen guide.

Mash the Bananas and Mix Wet Ingredients

Start by mashing your bananas in a bowl. Aim for a nice consistency—lumpy is fine; you want some texture! Add in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. This mixture adds a natural sweetness and warmth to your coffee cake banana bread.

Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a larger mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together. Beat them until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, leading to a tender crumb in your final loaf. Add the eggs to the creamed mixture one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine Dry Ingredients and Incorporate

Next, sift in the flour, baking soda, and salt to your wet mixture. Stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix here, as this can lead to a denser bread. Finally, fold in the sour cream, which adds moisture and a lovely tang.

Fold in the Mashed Bananas

Now it’s time to add the star of the show! Gently fold your mashed banana mixture into the batter. The bananas will keep your coffee cake banana bread moist and flavorful.

Prepare the Crumb Topping

For that delicious crumb topping, combine the cinnamon, flour, and brown sugar in a bowl. Use a pastry cutter (or even your fingers) to cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this topping evenly across your batter in both pans, creating that signature crunch.

Bake to Perfection

Slide your pans into the preheated oven at 350°F. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a cake tester comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached. Once baked, allow the loaves to cool for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack.

Slice, serve, and enjoy your delightful coffee cake banana bread! Perfect with coffee or tea, it’s sure to be a hit. For more tips on the best pairings, visit this coffee pairing guide.

Variations of Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Coffee Cake Banana Bread with Nuts

For a delightful crunch, add chopped nuts to your coffee cake banana bread batter. Walnuts or pecans complement the sweetness of the bananas beautifully, adding texture and flavor. Simply fold in about 1 cup of chopped nuts when mixing in the bananas. This not only enhances the taste but also elevates the nutritional profile, providing healthy fats and a satisfying bite.

Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake Banana Bread

If you’re a chocolate lover, consider transforming your coffee cake banana bread into a decadent treat by incorporating chocolate chips. Fold in 1 to 1 ½ cups of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips right before baking. The melty chocolate pairs perfectly with the moist banana bread, creating a dessert that feels like an indulgence yet is surprisingly easy to make. For an extra touch, sprinkle some chocolate chips on top of your crumb topping for a delightful surprise in every slice.

These variations enhance your classic recipe, and you can explore even more ideas by checking out Food52 or Allrecipes for inspiration!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Coffee Cake Banana Bread

When making your coffee cake banana bread, there are a few handy tips to elevate your baking game. First, opt for overripe bananas; their sweetness will enhance the flavor. If you're short on time, microwave the bananas for about 20 seconds to soften them for easier mashing.

Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and richness. For a delightful twist, substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt—it's a healthier option without sacrificing creaminess.

Finally, make sure to check your bread a few minutes before the baking time ends. Every oven is different, and you want that perfect moist crumb! For more tips on banana bread variations, explore this link.

Serving Suggestions for Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Coffee cake banana bread is incredibly versatile, making it a delightful treat for any occasion. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate this scrumptious bread:

Morning Delight: Serve warm slices with a pat of butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon for breakfast alongside your favorite coffee or a refreshing herbal tea.
Afternoon Snack: Pair with Greek yogurt for a protein-packed snack that balances sweetness and creaminess.
Brunch Treat: Add a side of fresh berries and drizzle honey over the top for a vibrant brunch spread.
Dessert Occasion: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert option.

Remember, enjoy your coffee cake banana bread fresh or store it in an airtight container to savor later. For more tips on enhancing your baked goods, check out this guide on baking essentials.

Time Breakdown for Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Preparation time

Get started by setting aside about 15 minutes for preparation. This includes mashing your ripe bananas and mixing up those irresistible ingredients. Remember, the riper the bananas, the more flavorful your coffee cake banana bread will be!

Baking time

Once you’ve got your batter ready and the crumb topping prepped, pop it in the oven! You’ll need about 35 to 40 minutes of baking time. Keep an eye on it toward the end; you want that cake tester to come out with just a few moist crumbs.

Total time

In total, you're looking at approximately 55 to 60 minutes from start to finish. This makes it super easy to whip up a delicious coffee cake banana bread for your upcoming brunch or snack time.

For more tips on preparation, check out sources like America's Test Kitchen for insights on ingredient quality and techniques.

Mixing your own ingredient expertise with a passion for baking can transform your kitchen into a haven for homemade delights!

Nutritional Facts for Coffee Cake Banana Bread

When indulging in coffee cake banana bread, it's helpful to know what you're putting in your body. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Calories

Each slice of this delightful treat typically contains around 200-250 calories, depending on the serving size and added ingredients. Perfect for an afternoon snack or breakfast!

Sugar Content

With about 10-15 grams of sugar per slice, this recipe offers a sweet treat without overwhelming your daily intake. Consider using natural sweeteners if you're looking to cut back!

Dietary Considerations

This coffee cake banana bread is a great option for those who follow a vegetarian diet. To make it gluten-free, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. And for added protein, you can swap regular yogurt for Greek yogurt in the batter.

If you’re curious about more nutritional insights, check out resources like the USDA FoodData Central for detailed information. Make this coffee cake banana bread a staple in your kitchen – it’s delicious and offers a few nutritional perks too!

FAQ about Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Can I replace the bananas with applesauce?

Absolutely! If you find yourself without bananas or prefer a lower-calorie option, you can substitute unsweetened applesauce for the bananas. Generally, a 1:1 ratio works well, so for every medium banana, use about a half cup of applesauce. Keep in mind, though, that the flavor will be slightly different, making it a fun variation!

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The best way to check if your coffee cake banana bread is done is by inserting a toothpick or cake tester into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, you’re good to go. Depending on your oven, this typically takes about 35-40 minutes.

Can I freeze coffee cake banana bread?

Yes, you can! This banana bread freezes beautifully. Just wrap slices in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop a slice in the microwave for a quick reheat. For more freezing tips, check out this helpful guide.

Now, go ahead and dive into making that delicious coffee cake banana bread!

Conclusion on Coffee Cake Banana Bread

This delightful coffee cake banana bread is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. It combines the moisture of ripe bananas with a crumbly topping that adds a satisfying crunch. Whether for breakfast, dessert, or a cozy coffee break, this recipe is sure to impress. Happy baking!