Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe
Highlighted under: Oven Meals
I absolutely love baking banana bread, especially when it’s topped with a delicious brown sugar streusel. The combination of sweet, ripe bananas and crunchy streusel creates a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. I recently discovered that to enhance the flavor, adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter makes all the difference. The aroma that fills the kitchen is irresistible, and I can never wait to slice into a warm piece fresh from the oven. You’ll definitely want to try this recipe!
Baking this banana bread with brown sugar streusel is one of my favorite weekend activities. I find that using overripe bananas adds a natural sweetness that pairs perfectly with the crumbly topping. For an extra layer of flavor, I like to toast the nuts lightly before mixing them in. It really elevates the overall taste!
One thing I’ve learned is to let the bread cool completely before slicing. This helps the texture firm up, making each slice more enjoyable. Trust me, having a warm loaf sit on the counter all afternoon is an enticing way to greet guests!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful banana bread topped with a crunchy streusel
- Easy to make with simple ingredients you likely have on hand
- Perfect for breakfast, snacks, or dessert
Understanding the Key Ingredients
The star of this banana bread recipe is, of course, the bananas. Using overripe bananas is essential, as they provide natural sweetness and moisture, which results in a soft and tender crumb. Look for bananas with brown spots on the peel for the best flavor. If you don't have overripe bananas on hand, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for 1-2 days.
Brown sugar plays a significant role in enriching the flavor of the banana bread. Its deeper molasses notes complement the sweetness of the fruit. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute brown sugar with a mix of granulated sugar and molasses, but be aware that this will alter the final taste and may give a lighter color to the bread.
Tips for Creating the Perfect Streusel
The brown sugar streusel is a wonderful addition that adds both texture and flavor. When mixing the streusel, ensure the butter is softened but not melted. This allows for the mixture to become crumbly without clumping, which is ideal for that desirable crunchy topping. If you want a richer flavor, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract to the streusel mix.
Another lovely enhancement for your streusel is the optional addition of chopped walnuts. They not only add a delightful crunch but also introduce healthy fats and protein to the recipe. If you have nut allergies or prefer a nut-free version, feel free to skip this step or substitute with seeds like sunflower seeds for a similar texture.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Brown Sugar Streusel
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions
Method
Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar, then add the beaten egg and vanilla extract.
Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
Prepare the Streusel
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the streusel. Mix in softened butter until crumbly, then fold in walnuts if using.
Combine and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the streusel over the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool before slicing.
Enjoy Your Banana Bread!
Pro Tips
- Allow the bread to cool completely before cutting to maintain the perfect texture.
Storage and Freezing Tips
After baking, allow the banana bread to cool completely in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Once fully cooled, you can store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To maintain its freshness longer, consider refrigerating it, where it will keep well for up to a week.
If you want to prepare in advance or save some for later, banana bread also freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter for a few hours, and then warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This banana bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings. For a delightful breakfast treat, spread a thin layer of cream cheese or almond butter on a warm slice. If you're feeling indulgent, a drizzle of honey or maple syrup can take it to the next level of deliciousness.
For a comforting dessert, serve warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Adding fresh berries or banana slices on the side also enhances the presentation while introducing refreshing flavors. Each bite becomes a comforting experience, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
→ How can I store leftover banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ What can I serve with banana bread?
It tastes great plain, but you can also serve it with butter, cream cheese, or a drizzle of honey.
Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe
I absolutely love baking banana bread, especially when it’s topped with a delicious brown sugar streusel. The combination of sweet, ripe bananas and crunchy streusel creates a mouthwatering treat that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack. I recently discovered that to enhance the flavor, adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter makes all the difference. The aroma that fills the kitchen is irresistible, and I can never wait to slice into a warm piece fresh from the oven. You’ll definitely want to try this recipe!
What You'll Need
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
For the Brown Sugar Streusel
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a large bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar, then add the beaten egg and vanilla extract.
In another bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.
In a separate bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the streusel. Mix in softened butter until crumbly, then fold in walnuts if using.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the streusel over the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let it cool before slicing.
Extra Tips
- Allow the bread to cool completely before cutting to maintain the perfect texture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g