Coffee Cake Banana Bread
If you’re looking for a delightful treat, this Coffee Cake Banana Bread is a perfect choice. It combines the classic flavors of banana bread with a crumbly coffee cake topping. Enjoy it on a busy weekday morning, as an afternoon snack, or even at holiday gatherings. This recipe is simple, making it ideal for busy home cooks and Pinterest enthusiasts alike. You’ll appreciate how the sweet aroma fills your kitchen while this delicious loaf bakes. Grab your ingredients, and let’s get started!
Emma Hale’s Story
My name is Emma Hale, a 42-year-old chef from Portland, Oregon. Cooking wasn’t on my initial path, but stepping into a kitchen felt like home. I began my culinary journey washing dishes in a small diner at sixteen. Little did I know, I’d fall for the sounds and rhythm of cooking—the clattering of pans, the sizzle of onions, and the camaraderie of the kitchen crew. That passion led me to create recipes that resonate with home cooks everywhere. Now, I’m excited to share my Coffee Cake Banana Bread recipe with you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Coffee Cake Banana Bread is special for many reasons. First, the flavors blend beautifully, providing the perfect balance of sweetness from the bananas and buttery crumb topping. It’s great for busy weeknights, cheerful brunches, or even holiday celebrations. You can whip it up easily, making it a go-to recipe for beginner bakers and seasoned pros alike.
Because this recipe uses common kitchen staples, you can make it at a moment’s notice. It’s not just delicious; it looks great too! The lovely golden crust and inviting topping make it an eye-catching dessert to share at gatherings. Plus, when you pin this Coffee Cake Banana Bread, you won’t want to lose this gem. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 3-4 medium or large bananas – Use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
- 2 Tbsp brown sugar – Adds sweetness and depth.
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances overall flavor.
- 3/4 tsp ground cinnamon – Gives warm spice notes.
- 1/2 cup butter, softened – Provides moisture.
- 1 cup sugar – Sweetens the batter.
- 2 eggs – Acts as a binding agent.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour – Creates structure.
- 1 tsp baking soda – Helps the bread rise.
- 1/4 tsp salt – Balances sweetness.
- 2 Tbsp sour cream (or Greek yogurt) – Adds moisture and tang.
- 1 tsp cinnamon – For the crumb topping.
- 1 cup flour – For the topping mixture.
- 1 cup brown sugar – Sweetens the crumb topping.
- 6 Tbsp butter (cold) – Creates a crumbly texture in the topping.
How to Make Coffee Cake Banana Bread
1 – Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 8×4 pans.
2 – In a small bowl, mash the bananas, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon together.
3 – In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4 – Add the eggs and beat until fully mixed.
5 – Sift in the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients.
6 – Stir until just combined.
7 – Add the sour cream and stir to combine.
8 – Pour in the mashed banana mixture and mix until combined.
9 – For the crumb topping, blend cinnamon, flour, and brown sugar in a separate bowl.
10 – Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
11 – Sprinkle the crumb topping over the banana bread batter in the pans.
12 – Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
How to Serve Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Serving Coffee Cake Banana Bread is simple and satisfying. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature. Consider pairing it with a fresh pot of coffee or tea for a delightful morning treat. For added sweetness, top each slice with a drizzle of honey or a dollop of whipped cream.
For gatherings, slice the bread and arrange it on a platter. Serve it alongside fresh fruit or a light yogurt dip for a fun presentation. During the holidays, this Coffee Cake Banana Bread can double as a thoughtful gift. Wrap it in parchment paper or a decorative box, and it’s ready to delight family and friends.
How to Perfect Coffee Cake Banana Bread
To make your Coffee Cake Banana Bread truly exceptional, keep a few tips in mind. First, use bananas that are very ripe. They will smash easily and infuse the bread with maximum flavor. Next, don’t overmix the ingredients when combining the wet and dry components. This will help retain a light texture.
Ensure your oven is correctly preheated. Check with an oven thermometer if you have one. Baking times may vary, so watch for a toothpick coming out clean. If you want more spice, feel free to add a bit of nutmeg or cardamom for extra depth. Lastly, let the bread cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. This will prevent it from becoming soggy at the bottom.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
– Overripe bananas: Too far gone can produce an overly mushy bread. Aim for ripe, but firm bananas.
– Overmixing the batter: This can lead to dense bread. Mix until just combined.
– Incorrect oven temperature: An oven that’s too hot can burn the top while leaving the inside raw. Use an oven thermometer for accuracy.
– Skipping the crumb topping: Don’t forget this! It adds a fantastic texture and flavor contrast to the banana bread.
– Not checking for doneness: Always test with a toothpick. If it comes out wet, give it more time.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Coffee Cake Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it well in plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it by slicing individual pieces and wrapping them in foil. It will last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
To reheat, you can microwave slices for about 20-30 seconds. Alternatively, warm the entire loaf in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, ensuring it stays moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw frozen bananas and drain excess liquid before mashing. -
Can I substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works perfectly in this recipe. -
How can I make it gluten-free?
For a gluten-free version, replace the flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. -
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Definitely! Add pecans, walnuts, or chocolate chips after mixing the banana batter.
Conclusion
This Coffee Cake Banana Bread is a must-try recipe. It’s easy to make, delicious, and perfect for various occasions. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast or dessert, it will impress your family and friends. So gather your ingredients and make it soon!

Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease two 8×4 pans.
- In a small bowl, mash the bananas, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon together.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs and beat until fully mixed.
- Sift in the flour, baking soda, and salt to the wet ingredients.
- Stir until just combined.
- Add the sour cream and stir to combine.
- Pour in the mashed banana mixture and mix until combined.
- For the crumb topping, blend cinnamon, flour, and brown sugar in a separate bowl.
- Cut in cold butter until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping over the banana bread batter in the pans.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
