Introduction
There’s something truly irresistible about the combination of banana bread and coffee cake, and this Coffee Cake Banana Bread embodies that delicious union beautifully! Imagine biting into a moist loaf filled with the delightful sweetness of ripe bananas, with a comforting crumble on top that adds a pleasing crunch. Perfect for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a cozy brunch with friends, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your home. Let’s dive into making this scrumptious treat!
Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for topping)
- 1 tablespoon cold butter (for topping)
- 1/2 cup oats (for topping)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with a little butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy—a process that should take about 3 minutes.
- Add the mashed bananas to the sugar and butter mixture, and mix until well combined.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, along with the vanilla extract, ensuring everything is well incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This will give your bread a lovely hint of spice!
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and end with the flour mixture, mixing until just combined—don’t overmix.
- Gently fold in the chopped nuts for an added crunch.
- Pour the luscious batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, oats, and cold butter to create a crumbly topping. Sprinkle this delightful mixture over the batter.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly!
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
For an extra touch of flavor, feel free to add in some chocolate chips or a dash of nutmeg along with the cinnamon. If you prefer a more moist texture, you can add an additional tablespoon of sour cream. This banana bread is a perfect make-ahead treat and tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors meld!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe highlights the technique of creaming butter and sugar, which helps to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a light and fluffy texture. Folding is another important technique used here, as it gently combines the ingredients without deflating the batter, preserving that lovely rise during baking.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas? Absolutely! Just ensure they’re thawed completely and well-mashed. Frozen bananas make the bread even more moist and flavorful.
How do I store leftover banana bread? Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or you can freeze it for a longer shelf life. Just slice and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.
Conclusion
This Coffee Cake Banana Bread is not just a treat; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. The delightful blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout option for any occasion. Whether you’re savoring a slice with your morning coffee or sharing it with loved ones, this loaf is sure to bring warmth and joy to your table. Happy baking!