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 cup brown sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Pinch of salt

Highlighted under: Oven Planning

When it comes to comforting baked goods, this Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel is my absolute favorite. I love how the natural sweetness of ripe bananas combines beautifully with the rich, crumbly streusel topping. Every bite is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that just makes me feel at home. Whether it’s breakfast or an afternoon snack, this lovely loaf fits perfectly into any part of my day. Plus, it’s simple enough to whip up on a whim and will fill your kitchen with the most irresistible aroma!

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:18:34.223Z

Baking this banana bread with brown sugar streusel is always a nostalgic experience for me. The first time I tried this recipe, I was amazed at how the topping added an extra layer of flavor that complemented the moist bread. I discovered that using very ripe bananas was the key to achieving that deep, sweet flavor that makes this loaf so special.

While experimenting, I learned that adding a hint of cinnamon really enhances the overall taste. As it bakes in the oven, the smell is simply divine and instantly reminds me of cozy afternoons spent with family. Each slice is just as enjoyable with a bit of butter spread on top, making it a comforting treat any time of day.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender bread loaded with ripe bananas
Crunchy streusel topping that adds a sweet finish
Perfectly balanced sweetness without being overpowering

      

Mastering Moist Banana Bread

The key to achieving a moist banana bread lies in the quality and ripeness of your bananas. Look for bananas that have plenty of brown spots or are fully brown; this indicates maximum sweetness and moisture. When mashing, ensure there are some chunks left to add texture, which contrasts nicely with the soft crumb of the bread. Mixing the wet ingredients well will help to incorporate air, contributing to a light, airy loaf.

When incorporating the dry ingredients, be mindful not to over-mix. Stir just until the flour disappears; this will prevent the gluten from developing too much, ensuring your bread remains tender. Pay close attention to the consistency—batter should be thick yet pourable, similar to a pancake batter. If it’s too thick, you can add a touch of milk to reach the desired texture.

Perfecting the Streusel Topping

Achieving the perfect streusel topping is all about the cold butter and the texture of the mixture. Make sure your butter is firm, as this helps create that delightful crumbly texture when mixed with sugar and flour. The addition of cinnamon not only enhances the flavor but also adds warmth and complexity, making each bite feel extra cozy. If you prefer a nutty flavor, try incorporating chopped walnuts or pecans into the streusel for added crunch.

To ensure your streusel stays crispy, avoid packing it down before baking. Just gently sprinkle it over the batter. This allows the topping to form a delicious crust as it bakes, while the sugars caramelize. If you notice your streusel browning too quickly before the bread is fully baked, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil for the last 15 minutes of baking.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel

For the Bread

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

For the Streusel Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Pinch of salt

Gather all your ingredients and let’s make something delicious!

Instructions

Instructions to Make Banana Bread with Brown Sugar Streusel

Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.

Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter. Then, mix in the brown sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together baking soda, salt, and flour. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Make the Streusel Topping

In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Cut in the cubed cold butter until the mixture becomes crumbly.

Assemble and Bake

Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared pan, then sprinkle the streusel topping generously on top. Bake for 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and enjoy your homemade banana bread!

Enjoy your freshly baked loaf warm or toasted!

Pro Tips

For a richer taste, try adding a handful of chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter before baking. This will bring an extra texture and flavor dimension to your banana bread.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread moist and fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate it for about a week; just ensure it's well-wrapped to prevent drying out. For longer storage, banana bread freezes beautifully. Slice it and wrap individual pieces in parchment paper, then place them in a resealable plastic bag for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or pop a slice in the microwave for a quick warm-up.

If you notice any leftover dried bits or the crust becoming tough, consider reheating slices in a toaster oven or microwave with a touch of butter. This not only warms the bread but also revitalizes the moisture, making it taste freshly baked. Pair with a smear of cream cheese or a spread of homemade fruit preserves for an elevated snack experience.

Customization Options

Feel free to customize this banana bread recipe to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition and a heartier texture. For a lower sugar option, consider using coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like stevia, keeping in mind that this may alter the flavor slightly. You can also add in extras like chocolate chips or dried fruits, making the bread even more indulgent and fun.

For a twist on flavor, experiment by adding different spices such as nutmeg or cardamom in addition to the cinnamon. Zest from an orange or lemon can also brighten up the flavor profile, giving the banana bread a refreshing lift. Just remember to adjust the other ingredients slightly to maintain balance, particularly if adding moisture-rich ingredients like fruit or yogurt.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just thaw them and mash them before using.

→ How should I store leftover banana bread?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I make this recipe without gluten?

Absolutely! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I make mini loaves instead?

Yes! This recipe can be divided into mini loaf pans, just reduce the baking time to about 30-40 minutes.