Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 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; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup butter, softened; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Golden Kitchen

When I make this banana bread with brown sugar streusel, the aroma fills my kitchen and instantly lifts my spirits. I love how the ripe bananas blend effortlessly into the batter, giving it a deliciously moist texture. Combining this with the sweet, crumbly streusel topping creates a delightful contrast that’s impossible to resist. Whether for breakfast or a snack, this recipe never fails to make my day a little brighter, and I can’t wait to share it with you!

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-06T15:17:34.848Z

Each time I bake this banana bread, it feels like I’m creating a new tradition. The first time I tried adding brown sugar to the streusel, I was blown away by the depth of flavor it brought to the dish. There’s something about that caramel-like sweetness that elevates a classic recipe to something truly special.

I’ve experimented with different spices, but I always return to cinnamon. A teaspoon of cinnamon not only enhances the bananas' natural sweetness but also adds warmth to every slice. I love to enjoy this bread warm, slathered with a bit of butter!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with a crunchy brown sugar topping
A moist, tender crumb that's satisfying for any time of the day
Quick to prepare, making it a perfect last-minute treat

Understanding the Role of Ripe Bananas

Ripe bananas are the star of this banana bread, not just for their flavor but for their natural sweetness and moisture. As they ripen, the starches transform into sugars, which results in a richer, sweeter loaf. When using bananas for baking, look for those with plenty of brown spots, as they are juicier and more flavorful. If you have overripe bananas that are beyond eating, this recipe is the perfect way to utilize them and minimize food waste.

When mashing the bananas, aim for a smooth consistency, though small lumps can be left for added texture. This ensures that they integrate well into the batter, contributing to the overall moistness of the bread. I recommend using a fork or a potato masher; avoid a blender as it may over-purée the bananas, leading to a less desirable texture.

Perfecting the Streusel Topping

The streusel topping is what elevates this banana bread from good to irresistible. A balance of brown sugar, flour, and butter creates a crumbly mix that, when baked, becomes crispy and caramelized. Make sure the butter is softened, not melted, to achieve that ideal crumbly consistency. If it's too warm, the topping will meld into the batter instead of forming chunks, so let it sit at room temperature before mixing.

For an extra crunch, consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans to your streusel mix. This addition not only enhances the texture but also adds a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bananas. Just remember to toss the nuts in a bit of flour first to prevent them from sinking to the bottom during baking.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Banana bread is an excellent make-ahead option that keeps well for several days. Once it cools completely, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. You can store it at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for a week. If you want to extend its shelf life, this banana bread also freezes beautifully. Slice it beforehand for easy thawing, and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, remove it from the freezer and let it thaw at room temperature. For a warm treat, pop slices in the toaster or microwave for about 10-15 seconds. The heat revives the flavors and texture, making it almost as good as freshly baked. Just be cautious not to overheat, as this can lead to a dry loaf.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to make your banana bread:

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

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup butter, softened
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Make sure to have these ingredients ready before you start!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, mix the melted butter with the mashed bananas until well combined.

Add Sugar and Egg

Stir in the brown sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.

Combine Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then stir in the flour until just incorporated.

Prepare Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, butter, and cinnamon to create the streusel.

Layer and Bake

Pour the banana batter into the prepared pan. Sprinkle streusel on top. Bake for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

Enjoy your freshly baked banana bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding some chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter.

Customizing Your Recipe

This banana bread recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences. You can swap out some all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a heartier texture or incorporate oats for added fiber. Don't hesitate to experiment with spices either; a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom can add a unique warmth to the flavor profile that complements the bananas beautifully.

If you're looking for a healthier twist, consider substituting some of the brown sugar with applesauce or honey. This can slightly alter the flavor, making it more nuanced, but it provides a lovely moistness while reducing refined sugar content. Just be mindful that too much liquid can change the batter's consistency, so adjust the flour accordingly.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue with banana bread is underbaking, which can leave the center gummy. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it comes out wet, give it an additional 5-10 minutes and keep an eye on the crust to make sure it doesn't over-brown. If it starts to darken too quickly, tent the loaf with foil to prevent burning.

Another consideration is the loaf collapsing after baking, often due to overmixing the batter or not using enough leavening agent. The key is to mix just until the flour is incorporated—overmixing can lead to a tough texture. Ensure your baking soda is fresh as well; expired baking soda won't provide the necessary lift, leading to dense bread.

Serving Suggestions

This banana bread is delightful on its own, but it can also be dressed up for a decadent treat. Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or butter on warm slices for an indulgent addition. For a special occasion, consider topping it with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of finely chopped nuts for added flavor and crunch.

Additionally, it pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for brunch or afternoon snacks. To elevate your serving, slice the banana bread and serve it alongside a seasonal fruit salad or yogurt for a refreshing contrast to its sweet flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them and drain any excess liquid.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I do if my bread is too moist?

Try reducing the number of bananas or baking a little longer.