Coffee cake banana bread blends the nostalgic warmth of banana bread with the irresistible cinnamon-streusel topping of a classic coffee cake. This tender loaf is perfect for brunches, holiday breakfasts, or afternoon treats with your favorite cup of coffee. Rich banana flavor, a soft buttery crumb, and a golden, spiced streusel topping make this recipe an essential addition to your baking collection.
Ingredients for Banana Coffee Cake Bread
For the Banana Bread Base
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ripe bananas | 3 medium | Mashed; the riper, the better |
| All-purpose flour | 2 cups | Spooned and leveled |
| Baking soda | 1 tsp | Leavening |
| Baking powder | ½ tsp | For lightness |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | Enhances flavor |
| Salt | ½ tsp | Balances sweetness |
| Unsalted butter | ½ cup (1 stick) | Softened |
| Granulated sugar | ½ cup | For balanced sweetness |
| Brown sugar | ¼ cup | Adds moisture and depth |
| Eggs | 2 large | Room temperature |
| Vanilla extract | 1½ tsp | Pure vanilla preferred |
| Sour cream | ½ cup | For richness and moisture |
For the Cinnamon Streusel Topping
| Ingredient | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Brown sugar | ⅓ cup | Packed |
| All-purpose flour | ⅓ cup | Lightens the topping |
| Ground cinnamon | 1 tsp | Warm, aromatic flavor |
| Cold butter | ¼ cup (half stick) | Cut into small cubes |
Optional Glaze (for extra indulgence)
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Powdered sugar | ½ cup |
| Milk or cream | 1–2 tbsp |
| Vanilla extract | ¼ tsp |
How to Make Moist Coffee Cake Banana Bread
1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line with parchment paper.
2. Mix the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry blender until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Chill while preparing batter.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (2–3 minutes).
4. Add Eggs, Bananas, and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time. Add mashed bananas and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
6. Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients and Sour Cream
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with sour cream. Begin and end with flour mixture. Stir gently—do not overmix.
7. Layer and Top
Pour batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle streusel evenly over the top.
8. Bake
Bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Tent with foil halfway through if top browns too quickly.
9. Cool and Glaze
Let the loaf cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. If glazing, whisk together the glaze ingredients and drizzle over cooled loaf.
Storage and Freezing Tips
- Room Temperature: Store tightly wrapped for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Extends freshness to 6–7 days; reheat slices for best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap in plastic and foil, freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight at room temperature.
Why This Coffee Cake Banana Bread Works
- Ripe bananas deliver intense natural sweetness and a moist crumb.
- Sour cream boosts tenderness and balances flavors with subtle tang.
- Streusel topping adds a crunchy, buttery contrast to the soft interior.
- Brown sugar enhances depth while maintaining moisture.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- Use overripe bananas: Black-speckled or dark bananas have the best flavor and mash easily.
- Avoid overmixing: Mix until just combined to prevent dense texture.
- Add chopped nuts or chocolate chips: Fold in ½ cup for extra richness.
- Test doneness: Toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs—no wet batter.
Nutritional Info (Per Slice – Based on 10 slices)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 290 |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Sugar | 22g |
| Protein | 4g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with butter for a breakfast treat.
- Pair with cold brew or latte for a complete coffee shop experience.
- Toast slices and top with cream cheese or nut butter.
- Add fresh berries and whipped cream for a dessert-style presentation.
FAQs About Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Yes, plain full-fat Greek yogurt works as a substitute with similar richness.
How do I prevent the streusel from sinking?
Ensure the batter is thick and the streusel is well-chilled. Gently press it into the batter before baking.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Use two loaf pans or one 9×13-inch pan and adjust baking time accordingly.
Why is my banana bread too dense?
Overmixing or using under-ripe bananas can cause density. Always use soft, ripe bananas and mix gently.
Conclusion
Our coffee cake banana bread brings together the best of two beloved classics. Moist, flavorful, and crowned with a buttery crumble, it’s ideal for every occasion—from lazy weekends to celebratory brunches. With the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture, this loaf is destined to become a kitchen staple.