Name: Coffee Cake Banana Bread
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 3-4 medium or large bananas; 2 Tbsp brown sugar; 1.5 tsp vanilla extract; 0.75 tsp ground cinnamon; 0.5 cup butter, softened; 1 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 0.25 tsp salt; 2 Tbsp sour cream or Greek yogurt; 1 tsp cinnamon; 1 cup flour; 1 cup brown sugar; 6 Tbsp butter, cold

Introduction to Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Why Coffee Cake Banana Bread is a Delightful Treat?

Have you ever found yourself torn between the comforting warmth of banana bread and the rich, crumbly goodness of coffee cake? Look no further—coffee cake banana bread is the delicious solution to your dilemma! This delightful treat combines the moist, flavorful essence of ripe bananas with a sweet, buttery crumb topping, creating a unique blend that’s sure to satisfy.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few staple ingredients, you can whip up a batch in no time. Whether you’re hosting friends for brunch or simply craving a late-night snack, this coffee cake banana bread fits the bill perfectly. It’s incredibly easy to customize, too! Feel free to add walnuts, chocolate chips, or even a dash of nutmeg to elevate the flavors.

What’s more, pairing a slice of this bread with your favorite cup of coffee offers a delightful experience that captures the essence of cozy mornings. So, pull out your mixing bowl and let’s get started on creating this delightful blend of flavors that’s destined to become a new favorite in your kitchen! Check out this article on the benefits of baking at home to inspire your culinary adventures!

Ingredients for Coffee Cake Banana Bread

When it comes to baking, having the right ingredients is essential, especially for this delightful coffee cake banana bread. Let’s go through what's needed to whip up this warm, comforting treat.

Banana Bread Base

Bananas: 3-4 medium to large, ripe bananas for that natural sweetness and moisture.
Brown Sugar: 2 tablespoons to enhance the flavor profile.
Vanilla Extract: 1.5 teaspoons add depth.
Ground Cinnamon: ¾ teaspoon for warmth.
Butter: ½ cup, softened; it adds richness.
Sugar: 1 cup for a balanced sweetness.
Eggs: 2 large, to help bind everything together.
All-purpose Flour: 2 cups provide structure.
Baking Soda: 1 teaspoon, ensuring that lovely rise.
Salt: ¼ teaspoon, to elevate the flavors.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: 2 tablespoons for added moisture and tanginess.

Sweet Crumb Topping

Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon for that classic coffee cake flavor.
Flour: 1 cup for the crumb structure.
Brown Sugar: 1 cup for a sweet topping.
Cold Butter: 6 tablespoons, cut in for a perfect crumb texture.

For more tips on ingredient substitutions and their roles in baking, explore resources from the Joy of Baking. This blend of ingredients will give you a moist, flavorful banana bread with a crunchy topping that’s irresistible. Perfect for a cozy morning alongside your favorite cup of coffee!

Preparing Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Making coffee cake banana bread is a delightful adventure that fills your kitchen with a sweet aroma. This recipe is not just about the end result; it's about enjoying the process. Let's dive into the steps together!

Gather and prep your ingredients

Before you get started, it’s essential to have everything ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

Bananas: 3-4 medium to large, which should be nicely ripe.
Brown sugar: For that deep flavor and moisture.
Vanilla extract: A must for warmth and depth.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a lovely spice component.
Butter: Softened and ready to cream with sugar.
Sugar and eggs: The foundational ingredients for sweetness and structure.
All-purpose flour: The base of our bread.
Baking soda and salt: For leavening and flavor.
Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Adds moisture and tang.

Don’t forget your crumb topping ingredients, which include more cinnamon, flour, brown sugar, and cold butter.

Mash the bananas and mix wet ingredients

Start by gently mashing those bananas in a small bowl. The riper they are, the sweeter your coffee cake banana bread will be! Add in the brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon. This mixture not only enhances the flavor but also makes it super moist.

Once that's done, move to a larger bowl. Cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. It’s a crucial step for achieving a tender crumb in your bread. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Combine dry ingredients

In another bowl, sift together your flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps to lighten the flour and evenly distribute the baking soda, ensuring a perfectly risen loaf.

Blend wet and dry mixtures

Now, it's time to bring it all together! Slowly add your dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. You want to make sure there are no dry streaks, but don’t overmix—this is key for a good texture in your coffee cake banana bread. Finally, fold in your mashed banana mixture and sour cream or Greek yogurt till evenly distributed.

Prepare the crumb topping

For that irresistible crumb topping, combine the remaining cinnamon, flour, and brown sugar in a bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this glorious topping evenly over the batter in both pans; it will bake up beautifully.

Bake to perfection

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease two 8x4 pans. Bake your coffee cake banana bread for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached. Once baked, let it cool for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

And there you have it! Enjoy slicing into your freshly baked coffee cake banana bread. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet afternoon snack, it’s a versatile treat that pairs wonderfully with your favorite cup of coffee or tea. If you’re looking to learn more about perfecting your baking skills, check out resources from King Arthur Baking or the Serious Eats baking section. Happy baking!

Variations on Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Gluten-free Coffee Cake Banana Bread

If you're looking for a gluten-free option for your coffee cake banana bread, it’s easily done! Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that your baking soda is also gluten-free, and you’re ready to go. This version retains the delightful moistness of the original while catering to your dietary preferences.

Nutty Chocolate Chip Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Want to elevate your coffee cake banana bread experience? Add a cup of chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for a delicious twist. The rich chocolate complements the bananas perfectly, while the nuts add a delightful crunch. This variation not only enhances the flavor but also adds texture, making your banana bread even more indulgent.

For more creative baking ideas, consider checking out King Arthur Baking for expert tips or Gluten-Free Goddess to explore gluten-free alternatives. Enjoy experimenting with these variations!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Coffee Cake Banana Bread

When making coffee cake banana bread, here are some handy tips that can elevate your baking game:

Ripe Bananas are Key: Ensure your bananas are overripe for the best flavor and moisture. The darker, the better!
Sifting Matters: Sift your dry ingredients to avoid lumps and ensure a light, fluffy texture.
Butter Temperature: Use softened butter to create a creamy batter; this helps incorporate air for a lovely rise.
Check for Doneness: Start checking your bread around 35 minutes. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
Storage Tips: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container. It stays delicious for several days, and you can also freeze slices for later enjoyment!

For more tips on banana recipes, take a look at resources from The Kitchn for additional ideas!

Serving Suggestions for Coffee Cake Banana Bread

When enjoying your coffee cake banana bread, think outside the loaf! Here are some delightful serving ideas:

Breakfast Delight: Pair a warm slice with a smear of cream cheese or almond butter for a satisfying breakfast.
Coffee Companion: Serve alongside your favorite brew. The rich flavors of the banana bread complement the coffee's acidity beautifully.
Snack Time: Cut into bite-sized pieces for an afternoon treat. Perfect for snacking at your home office or while catching up with friends.
Dessert Upgrade: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert that will impress any guest.

Explore more serving ideas and tips at Serious Eats or Bon Appétit. Enjoy your delicious creation!

Time Breakdown for Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Preparation Time
This scrumptious coffee cake banana bread starts with a prep time of just 25 minutes. It’s the perfect way to kick off a weekend baking session or to whip up a quick treat for a weeknight gathering.

Baking Time
Once you’ve mixed the ingredients and prepped your pans, it’s time to bake! The loaf bakes for about 35-40 minutes until golden brown and fragrant, filling your kitchen with a delightful aroma.

Total Time
In total, you’ll need around 1 hour and 5 minutes from start to finish. It’s a small investment of time for such a delicious payoff. Ready to enjoy the perfect blend of banana bread and crumb topping?

If you want to delve deeper into the art of baking quick breads, check out King Arthur Baking, a treasure trove of helpful tips and tricks!

Nutritional Facts for Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Calories

A slice of this delightful coffee cake banana bread contains approximately 180-210 calories, making it a satisfying treat for breakfast or a mid-day snack.

Fats

With about 7-10 grams of fat per slice, the recipe balances rich flavors from butter and a crumb topping, giving you that indulgent taste without overdoing it.

Carbohydrates

Each serving has around 30-35 grams of carbohydrates, mainly from the bananas and sugar, providing you with a quick energy boost to tackle your day ahead.

Feel free to visit sources like Harvard Health or Mayo Clinic for more insights into healthy eating habits and how to incorporate tasty treats into a balanced diet!

FAQs about Coffee Cake Banana Bread

Can I freeze coffee cake banana bread?

Absolutely! Freezing coffee cake banana bread is a great way to extend its shelf life. Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and then place it in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll maintain its flavor and texture for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw at room temperature or pop it in a microwave for a quick reheating.

What can I substitute for sour cream or Greek yogurt?

If you’re short on either sour cream or Greek yogurt, don’t worry! You can substitute with buttermilk or even applesauce for a dairy-free option. Plain yogurt or cottage cheese also works well in this recipe, keeping your banana bread moist and delicious.

How do I know when my banana bread is done baking?

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the loaf. It should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached. If it’s still wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven. Just remember — banana bread continues to cook slightly after being removed from the oven, so keep an eye on it!

For more topping ideas, visit Cooking Light. Enjoy your baking journey!

Conclusion on Coffee Cake Banana Bread

In conclusion, coffee cake banana bread is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that elevates your typical banana bread experience. Its sweet crumb topping makes it perfect for breakfast or as a snack. Treat yourself to this simple recipe that is sure to impress friends and family alike!