Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe
Highlighted under: Soft Cooking
This Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel is moist, flavorful, and topped with a delightful streusel that adds a perfect crunch. It’s a fantastic way to use ripe bananas and makes for a wonderful snack or breakfast treat.
This Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel is not just any banana bread; it’s a family favorite that has been passed down through generations. The combination of ripe bananas and a crunchy streusel topping makes every bite a delightful experience. Whether enjoyed warm from the oven or toasted with a pat of butter, this bread is perfect for any occasion.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful with ripe bananas
- Crunchy brown sugar streusel topping
- Perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert
- Easy to make with simple ingredients
The Perfect Use for Ripe Bananas
Banana bread is a beloved classic, and there's no better way to utilize those overripe bananas sitting on your counter than baking this delicious treat. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas enhances the flavor and moisture of the bread, making it irresistible. Moreover, this recipe is flexible; you can easily adjust it to include nuts or chocolate chips for an extra layer of flavor.
When bananas become too ripe for eating, they reach their peak sweetness and softness, making them ideal for baking. This banana bread recipe harnesses that sweetness, resulting in a moist loaf that's bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking to reduce food waste or simply enjoy the taste of homemade banana bread, this recipe checks all the boxes.
Why Brown Sugar Streusel?
The brown sugar streusel topping is what elevates this banana bread to the next level. Unlike standard toppings, the combination of brown sugar and oats creates a delightful contrast to the soft, moist bread. The streusel offers a satisfying crunch with every bite, making it a standout feature of this recipe.
Adding a streusel topping not only boosts the aesthetics of the bread but also enhances its flavor profile. The buttery cinnamon aroma wafting through your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. This added layer of texture and taste makes this banana bread perfect for special occasions, brunch gatherings, or just a cozy afternoon snack.
Versatile and Easy to Customize
One of the best aspects of banana bread is its versatility. While this recipe provides a classic approach, feel free to get creative! Consider adding chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or even coconut flakes to the batter for a personalized touch. Each variation offers a unique flavor experience, allowing you to tailor the bread to your family's preferences.
Additionally, this banana bread can be easily adapted for dietary needs. For a healthier twist, substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or use a sugar alternative. The moistness from the ripe bananas ensures that even with these adjustments, the bread will remain deliciously satisfying.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup oats
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Mix well and pour the batter into a prepared loaf pan.
Instructions
Preheat Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
Make the Banana Bread Batter
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas. Stir in the melted butter. Add the baking soda and salt, then mix in the brown sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined.
Prepare the Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, oats, softened butter, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.
Combine and Bake
Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy this delicious banana bread with your favorite spread!
Pro Tips
- For extra flavor, add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter. Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture.
Storage Tips for Banana Bread
To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, which can help prevent mold growth. However, note that refrigeration can change the texture slightly, making it a bit denser.
For longer-term storage, banana bread freezes exceptionally well. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last up to three months in the freezer. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or reheat it in the oven for a few minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This banana bread is delightful on its own but can also be served in various ways. Try spreading a little butter or cream cheese on a warm slice for an indulgent treat. For a more decadent experience, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top, making it a lovely dessert option.
Consider pairing your banana bread with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting breakfast or afternoon snack. The warm flavors of the bread complement the richness of your beverage beautifully, making it a perfect way to start your day or unwind in the evening.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them and mash before using.
→ How should I store the banana bread?
Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
→ How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Replace the butter with a dairy-free margarine or coconut oil.
Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe
This Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel is moist, flavorful, and topped with a delightful streusel that adds a perfect crunch. It’s a fantastic way to use ripe bananas and makes for a wonderful snack or breakfast treat.
What You'll Need
For the Banana Bread
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For the Streusel Topping
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup oats
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas. Stir in the melted butter. Add the baking soda and salt, then mix in the brown sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract. Finally, stir in the flour until just combined.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, oats, softened butter, and cinnamon. Mix until crumbly.
Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Extra Tips
- For extra flavor, add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter. Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and moisture.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 200 kcal
- Total Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 29g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 14g
- Protein: 3g