If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting treat that combines the best of two beloved classics, this Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe is going to be your new favorite. Imagine the soft, moist texture of banana bread infused with the warmth of cinnamon and vanilla, topped off with a buttery, crumbly coffee cake topping that’s just irresistible. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with amazing aromas and results in slices that are perfect for breakfast, snack time, or even dessert. You’ll find yourself reaching for just one more slice, and sharing it with everyone you care about.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and tenderness that make this bread so special. From the natural sweetness and moisture of ripe bananas to the buttery richness of the crumb topping, every element works together harmoniously.
- 3-4 medium or large bananas: Choose bananas that are very ripe for the sweetest, fullest flavor and extra moisture.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel depth to the batter.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and adds warm, fragrant notes.
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Gives a lovely spiced undertone that complements the bananas perfectly.
- 1/2 cup butter (softened): Brings richness and a tender crumb to the bread.
- 1 cup sugar: Balances the natural banana sweetness and ensures the cake is perfectly sweetened.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients smoothly together.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together with a tender texture.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Gives the bread its excellent rise.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
- 2 tablespoons sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and a slight tang that keeps the bread from being too sweet.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (for topping): Adds extra spice to the crumble topping.
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Forms the base of the crumbly, coffee cake topping.
- 1 cup brown sugar (for topping): Imparts rich sweetness and a chewy texture to the topping.
- 6 tablespoons cold butter (for topping): Creates that melt-in-your-mouth crumbly top layer.
How to Make Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas and Batter
Start by mashing those perfectly ripe bananas in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Their natural sweetness and moisture are what make this bread so tender and flavorful. Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon into the bananas and mix well. Next, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy; this step is what gives the bread a luscious texture. Then beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Now carefully fold the mashed banana mixture into the creamed butter and eggs for a perfectly blended batter.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This step ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and salt so that your bread rises uniformly and is perfectly seasoned. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet banana mixture, folding gently to avoid overmixing which can make the bread dense. Finally, stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt for that moist, tender crumb we’ve all come to love in banana bread.
Step 3: Make the Coffee Cake Crumble Topping
The star of this Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe is the buttery, crumbly topping. Combine the flour, cinnamon, and brown sugar in a bowl. Then use a pastry cutter or two forks to cut the cold butter into the mixture until it looks like coarse crumbs. This topping not only adds texture and sweetness but also gives the bread that nostalgic coffee cake flavor we crave. Sprinkle the topping evenly over the banana bread batter in your prepared pans for an even coverage of crunchy goodness.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter between two greased loaf pans, smooth the tops, and shower them generously with the crumble topping. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. You’ll notice the top turning a golden brown, with the crumbly topping crisping up beautifully. Once baked, allow the loaves to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This resting time is key to let the flavors harmonize fully.
How to Serve Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe even more, consider adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze. Freshly chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top can also bring additional texture and flavor. These small touches make each slice feel extra special and perfect for sharing.
Side Dishes
This banana bread pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or tea, making it an ideal breakfast or afternoon snack companion. For a heartier indulgence, serve it alongside some fresh fruit or a smear of your favorite nut butter. The creamy, slightly tangy profile of sour cream or Greek yogurt used in the recipe complements fruit or yogurt parfaits beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread into thick, generous pieces and serve warm with a pat of butter melting on top. For a fun dessert twist, transform slices into banana bread French toast or even sandwich a scoop of vanilla ice cream between two slices for an unforgettable treat. Presenting this bread on a rustic wooden board with colorful linens adds a charming, homemade vibe that invites friends and family to gather around.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe will stay fresh for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Keeping it wrapped tightly prevents the crumb topping from drying out and preserves the moist texture inside. For longer storage within the week, you can refrigerate the bread, but bring it back to room temperature before serving to enjoy the full flavor.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or entire loaves tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. It will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming gently in the oven.
Reheating
To bring back that just-baked warmth, reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes. This method keeps the topping crisp and the inside soft and moist. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve the texture of the crumb topping, as it can get soggy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work great once thawed and mashed. Just be sure to drain any excess liquid before adding them to the batter to avoid making it too wet.
What if I don’t have sour cream or Greek yogurt?
You can substitute sour cream or Greek yogurt with the same amount of buttermilk or even regular yogurt. These alternatives will still add moisture and a slight tang to enrich the loaf.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Yes! Adding about 1/2 to 1 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips can add wonderful texture and flavor. Fold them into the batter right before pouring it into the pans.
How do I prevent the crumb topping from burning?
Make sure your oven temperature is accurate and avoid placing the loaves too close to the heating element. If the topping browns too quickly, tent the bread loosely with foil to protect it while the inside finishes baking.
Is it better to use brown sugar or white sugar in the topping?
Brown sugar is preferred for the topping because it adds moisture and a deeper caramel-like flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully, giving the coffee cake part its signature taste.
Final Thoughts
This Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe is one of those heartwarming treats that feels like a hug from the inside out. Whether you’re baking for your family, a brunch gathering, or simply treating yourself, it offers an inviting mix of flavors and textures that’ll make you smile with every bite. Give it a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Coffee Cake Banana Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 2 loaves (about 12 slices each)
- Category: Baked Goods
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Coffee Cake Banana Bread marries the moist, sweet flavors of ripe bananas with a buttery, cinnamon-sugar crumb topping, creating a delightful combination of tender bread and crunchy coffee cake. Perfect for breakfast or a comforting snack, this recipe yields two loaves filled with warm spices and a luscious crumb topping.
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
- Prepare the banana bread batter. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon, mixing well to combine. In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs, beating well after each addition. Alternate adding the mashed banana mixture and dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, salt) to the creamed butter mixture, folding gently. Lastly, mix in the sour cream or Greek yogurt to keep the bread moist.
- Prepare the coffee cake topping. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. This topping will add a buttery, crunchy layer to your banana bread.
- Assemble and bake. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two loaf pans. Pour the banana bread batter evenly into the pans. Evenly sprinkle the prepared coffee cake topping over the batter. Bake the loaves in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from oven and allow to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely before slicing.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- You can substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt to reduce fat while maintaining moisture.
- Ensure cold butter for the topping to get a crumbly texture rather than melted.
- Check doneness after 35 minutes to avoid overbaking; oven temperatures may vary.
- This bread freezes well; wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.
