Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/3 cup melted butter; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 3/4 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup butter, softened; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Golden Favorites

I can confidently say that this Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel is not just another quick bread recipe. The combination of ripe bananas and a sweet, buttery streusel topping is a match made in heaven! Every bite is a delightful reminder of home baking, and the aroma that fills the kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. This banana bread is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even dessert. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you'll want to make it again and again!

Created by

Selene Woodward

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:57:34.862Z

Baking this Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel was a delightful experience that brought back wonderful childhood memories. I remember watching my grandmother bake, and I wanted to replicate the same warmth and flavor in my own kitchen. The key to success with this recipe lies in using ripe bananas; they enhance the sweetness and moisture of the bread, creating a luscious texture that everyone will love.

One tip I discovered was to make the streusel topping just before adding it to the bread for that perfect crunch. It's essential to mix the crumble just right—too much will make it dense, while too little will provide insufficient contrast. The balance here is what delivers that delicious, sweet finish we are all searching for in banana bread!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Lush texture from ripe bananas that delivers a soft crumb
A sweet and crunchy brown sugar streusel topping
Perfect for breakfast, snacking, or dessert

      

Unlocking the Flavor of Ripe Bananas

The key to achieving the best flavor in your banana bread lies in using ripe bananas. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots; these indicate they are sweet and at peak ripeness. Overripe bananas add a natural sweetness and intense banana flavor that cannot be replicated with unripe fruit. If you find yourself with several bananas nearing overripe conditions, you can even freeze them to use later. Just thaw them out before mixing into your banana bread batter.

When mashing bananas, aim for a chunky but mostly smooth texture. This ensures that the banana flavor permeates the bread evenly while still allowing for some delicious banana pieces that create a lovely contrast in texture. Be mindful not to whisk them too vigorously; you want to retain some of that moisture and softness that will contribute to the bread’s overall lushness.

Mastering the Brown Sugar Streusel

The brown sugar streusel topping elevates this banana bread from ordinary to extraordinary. To create a streusel that is both crumbly and crispy, ensure your butter is softened but not melted. This will allow you to obtain that ideal crumbly texture. When mixing, use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend the ingredients until they resemble coarse crumbs. This technique prevents the streusel from clumping together and ensures it will bake up beautifully crunchy on top.

For a twist on the classic streusel, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans, or even a sprinkle of oats for additional texture. If you're looking for a spicier flavor profile, try adding a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the streusel mixture. Just be cautious not to overpower the banana flavor, as it should always be the star of the show.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This banana bread is perfect for making ahead of time. After it cools completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread by wrapping it in aluminum foil and placing it in a freezer-safe bag. It can be kept frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it at room temperature or pop slices in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

Slicing the banana bread before freezing allows for easy defrosting. You can take out just one or two slices at a time, making it a convenient snack or breakfast option. To freshen up the bread after thawing, consider toasting it lightly for a few minutes, which will revive its softness and enhance the streusel's crunchiness.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for an incredible banana bread experience:

Ingredients for Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
3/4 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour

Ingredients for Brown Sugar Streusel

1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup butter, softened
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create the perfect banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 4x8 inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the melted butter. Stir in the baking soda and salt.

Add Sugar and Egg

Mix in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Incorporate Flour

Gently fold in the flour, being careful not to overmix.

Prepare Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon until crumbly.

Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your warm banana bread with a pat of butter or just as it is!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor twist, consider adding chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your banana bread turns out too dense, it may be a result of overmixing the batter during the incorporation of the flour. To avoid this, gently fold the flour into the wet ingredients until they are just combined. A few small lumps are perfectly acceptable, as they will smooth out during baking. Additionally, pay attention not to use too much flour; measuring accurately will ensure a soft crumb without excessive density.

Another common issue is a soggy center. If your banana bread doesn’t set in the middle, try baking it for a few more minutes. Oven temperatures can vary, and you may need to adjust the baking time slightly. A good visual cue is to look for golden edges and a clean toothpick test in the center. If you notice the top browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil and continue baking.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread with brown sugar streusel makes an exceptional breakfast item. Pair warm slices with a smear of cream cheese or a pat of butter for an indulgent start to your day. Alternatively, serve it alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon snack. To elevate the experience, consider topping your banana bread with a sprinkle of toasted coconut or drizzle it with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.

For dessert, try serving slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. You can also create a decadent banana bread trifle by layering pieces with pudding and fresh bananas. The options are endless, and you can easily adapt your serving style based on the occasion!

Variations to Try

One of the best aspects of banana bread is its versatility. If you want to experiment, consider adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or a handful of shredded coconut to the batter. Each addition gives the bread a distinct flavor profile, allowing you to customize it to your liking. For a touch of nutty flavor, add a half-cup of chopped walnuts or pecans directly into the batter; these not only taste great but also add a satisfying crunch.

Another variation you might enjoy is incorporating spices like cinnamon or cardamom into the batter for extra warmth. Add about a teaspoon of your chosen spice when mixing in the sugar and egg. This not only enhances the bread's flavor but also creates a wonderful aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thawed frozen bananas work perfectly for this recipe! Just drain any excess liquid.

→ How do I store banana bread?

Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for a week.

→ Can I substitute the sugar?

You can use brown sugar or coconut sugar. Just remember it may affect the taste slightly.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, and it should work just fine!