Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 cup espresso, cooled; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Planning

This Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor Recipe combines the comforting flavors of ripe bananas with a rich espresso kick, creating a deliciously moist loaf that's perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack.

Created by

Violet Kingsley

Last updated on 2026-01-03T06:01:35.246Z

This delightful Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor is not your average banana bread. Infused with a robust coffee flavor, it elevates the traditional recipe to new heights. Perfect for coffee lovers, this bread is incredibly moist and has a beautiful crumb that pairs wonderfully with a cup of your favorite brew.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich banana flavor complemented by a bold espresso kick
Moist texture that stays fresh for days
Perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat

      

A Perfect Pairing: Banana and Espresso

Bananas and espresso may seem like an unusual combination, but they complement each other beautifully. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas balances the bold, slightly bitter notes of espresso, creating a flavor profile that is both comforting and invigorating. This unique pairing elevates traditional banana bread to a new level, making it an exciting option for coffee lovers and baked goods enthusiasts alike.

In this recipe, the espresso not only enhances the flavor but also adds a depth that transforms the classic banana bread experience. With each bite, you will enjoy the rich banana flavor harmoniously intertwined with the robust espresso kick. This makes it a perfect choice for a morning boost or an afternoon pick-me-up.

The Moisture Factor

One of the hallmarks of a great banana bread is its moisture content, and this recipe delivers just that. The combination of ripe bananas and melted butter creates a tender crumb, ensuring that each slice remains soft and delicious, even days after baking. This ensures that your banana bread stays fresh and enjoyable for a longer period.

Additionally, the use of brown sugar adds not only sweetness but also moisture due to its higher molasses content compared to granulated sugar. This helps to keep the bread airy yet rich, providing a delightful texture that complements the flavors beautifully.

Customization and Variations

One of the best things about banana bread is its versatility. While this recipe features espresso and walnuts, feel free to customize it to suit your taste. You can add chocolate chips for a touch of indulgence, or swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor. Dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins also work wonderfully, adding a burst of sweetness.

If you prefer a non-coffee version, simply omit the espresso and replace it with an equal amount of milk or another liquid. You can also experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger to give your banana bread a unique twist. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a loaf that is perfectly tailored to your palate.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup espresso, cooled
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Mix the ingredients thoroughly and pour into a prepared loaf pan.

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, and cooled espresso until well blended.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. If using, fold in the chopped walnuts.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and 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 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Slice and enjoy your delicious Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, drizzle some espresso glaze on top before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the experience with some simple serving suggestions. Try spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or nut butter on top of a warm slice for added richness and flavor. A dollop of whipped cream can also make for an indulgent snack, perfect for special occasions.

Pair your banana bread with a hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the espresso flavor. This makes for a comforting breakfast, a mid-afternoon snack, or even a light dessert. For a touch of elegance, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it for a longer period, consider freezing it. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

When you're ready to enjoy your frozen banana bread, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. If you prefer a warm slice, you can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature or microwave it for a few seconds. This ensures that the bread retains its moist texture and delicious flavor.

Nutritional Information

This Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor is not just a treat for the taste buds; it also offers some nutritional benefits. Bananas are rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamins, making this loaf a healthier choice than many other baked goods. The addition of espresso provides a modest caffeine boost, which can enhance alertness and focus.

While it's still a dessert, you can enjoy it guilt-free in moderation. For those watching their sugar intake, consider reducing the amount of brown and granulated sugar, or using a sugar substitute. This way, you can tailor the sweetness to your dietary needs while still enjoying the delightful flavors of this banana bread.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use decaf espresso?

Yes, you can use decaf espresso if you prefer a caffeine-free version.

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze this banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing for up to 3 months.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg as a substitute for each egg.