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; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/3 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Highlighted under: Modern Baking Inspiration

I love baking banana bread, especially when it comes topped with a crunchy brown sugar streusel. The rich aroma fills my kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere. Each slice is a perfect blend of moist banana goodness and a sweet, crisp topping that elevates this classic treat. Whenever I have a few overripe bananas, I immediately think of this recipe, as it transforms them into something extraordinary. Whether for breakfast or a snack, this banana bread is a delightful way to enjoy those ripe bananas!

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-05T23:13:34.431Z

Baking banana bread with a brown sugar streusel has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. The combination of ripe bananas and the crunchy topping creates an unforgettable taste experience. I remember the first time I added the streusel—its caramelized flavor perfectly balanced the sweetness of the bananas, making each bite irresistible.

I discovered that using overripe bananas is key. They add natural sweetness and a wonderful moist texture to the bread. I also recommend letting the banana bread cool slightly before slicing; this helps maintain its structure and makes it easier to cut.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Irresistible combination of moist banana bread and a crunchy streusel topping
Simple ingredients that transform into a delicious treat
Great for breakfast, snacks, or dessert

      

The Right Ripe Bananas

Choosing the right bananas is crucial for the best flavor and texture in your banana bread. The ideal bananas should be fully ripe, with plenty of brown spots and a slight give when gently pressed. Overripe bananas have higher sugar content, which adds natural sweetness and moisture to the bread, helping it stay soft and tender. If you only have yellow bananas, consider placing them in a brown paper bag along with an apple to speed up the ripening process.

For an added twist, feel free to experiment with different banana varieties. If you can find plantains, they can also be used for a slightly different flavor profile. Just ensure they are overripe to achieve that characteristic sweetness that makes this bread so delightful.

Streusel Topping Secrets

The brown sugar streusel topping is what truly elevates this banana bread. To achieve that perfect crumbly texture, make sure your butter is cold when mixing it with the dry ingredients. This allows it to be incorporated into the flour and sugar without fully melting, creating those beautiful, crunchy bits on top. If you find that the topping isn't clumping together well, try adding a little more cold butter until you reach the desired consistency.

Don’t hesitate to customize your streusel. Adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even finely chopped dark chocolate can take the topping to another level of flavor and texture. Just ensure that any additional ingredients are balanced with the sweetness of the brown sugar for a well-rounded taste.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious banana bread with brown sugar streusel.

For the 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

For the Brown Sugar Streusel

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

Make sure to prepare your ingredients ahead of time for easy assembly.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your banana bread with brown sugar streusel.

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Banana Bread Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with melted butter. Then, stir in the baking soda and salt. Add the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract, mixing well. Finally, fold in the flour until just combined.

Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, brown sugar, cold butter, and cinnamon. Use a fork or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Assemble and Bake

Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared loaf pan. Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the batter. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

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

Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the delightful flavors!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in nuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking. If you prefer a less sweet bread, reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe.

Storing and Freezing

If you have leftover banana bread, it stores beautifully at room temperature for up to three days. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it moist. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing the loaf. Slice it before freezing, and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil—this makes reheating a breeze.

To thaw, simply leave the slices at room temperature for about an hour, or pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. This method keeps the banana bread soft and delicious, allowing you to enjoy fresh-tasting slices whenever you want a quick snack or breakfast.

Serving Suggestions

Banana bread is fantastic on its own, but you can enhance your experience with a few delicious accompaniments. Try spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or butter on warm slices for added richness. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can also complement the sweetness of the bread while adding extra flavor.

For a brunch spread, consider pairing slices of this banana bread with yogurt and fresh berries. The contrast between the warm, spiced bread and the cool, creamy yogurt creates a delightful balance that’s sure to impress your guests.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

→ How should I store the banana bread?

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

→ Can I make mini loaves instead?

Absolutely! Divide the batter into mini loaf pans and reduce the baking time to 25-30 minutes.

→ What can I substitute for eggs?

You can use a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) as a substitute.