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; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; Pinch of salt; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/3 cup all-purpose flour; 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 tablespoons cold butter, cubed

Highlighted under: Sweet Favorites

I absolutely love making banana bread, especially when it’s topped with a crunchy brown sugar streusel. The combination of ripe bananas and rich, caramelized sugar creates a deliciously moist loaf that’s ideal for breakfast or a snack. I often experiment with ingredients, but this classic version always brings me back. It’s simple yet satisfies both sweet and savory cravings. Plus, the aroma of baking banana bread fills the kitchen with comfort, making it irresistible to everyone around me.

Created by

Ffion Llewellyn

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:13:34.514Z

When I first tried making banana bread, I was surprised by how easy it was to turn overripe bananas into something so delicious. I discovered that the secret lies in letting the bananas get truly ripe—those dark spots work wonders for sweetness and flavor. The brown sugar streusel adds a delightful crunch on top, and I love incorporating a pinch of cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth.

This recipe has become a family favorite, and I often find myself making two loaves at once—one for us and one to share with neighbors. It’s a comforting treat that always gets rave reviews!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Moist texture from perfectly ripe bananas
Crunchy streusel adds the perfect contrast
Easy to make and great for any occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The key to this banana bread's moist texture lies in the choice of bananas. Always opt for ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots; they not only lend natural sweetness but also enhance the bread’s moisture. In this recipe, the combination of both brown and granulated sugars contributes to the flavorful depth and caramelization that occurs during baking, ensuring every bite is as delightful as the last.

Butter, used in its melted form, integrates smoothly with the other wet ingredients. It adds richness to the batter, while the baking soda acts as a leavening agent, ensuring that the bread rises beautifully. Mixing the dry ingredients gently ensures a tender crumb, as over-mixing can lead to a tougher texture.

Perfecting the Streusel

Creating the streusel topping is an essential step that elevates this banana bread. It's a mix of brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon, which not only adds sweetness but an aromatic warmth. The cold butter used here is crucial; when combined with the dry ingredients, it creates a crumbly texture that contrasts perfectly with the soft banana bread beneath it. You’ll know it’s ready when it resembles coarse crumbs and can be easily pinched together.

If you want to experiment with the streusel, consider adding chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for an extra crunch or even some rolled oats for a heartier topping. Just be sure to maintain the overall balance of wet to dry ingredients in the recipe.

Ingredients

For the Banana Bread

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/3 cup melted butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
Pinch of salt
1 cup all-purpose flour

For the Streusel Topping

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

Instructions

Method

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter. Stir in the brown sugar and granulated sugar. Mix in the beaten egg and vanilla extract.

Add Dry Ingredients

Sprinkle the baking soda and salt over the mixture, then add the flour. Stir until just combined.

Prepare the Streusel

In a small bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the streusel. Add cubed cold butter and mix until crumbly.

Assemble and Bake

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

Cool and Serve

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

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, add chocolate chips or walnuts to the batter before baking. Make sure to use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This banana bread can be made ahead and stored for later enjoyment. After baking, let it cool completely and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. It stays fresh at room temperature for up to three days or can be refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, consider slicing the bread and freezing individual pieces. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in a toaster for a warm treat.

If you plan to make multiple loaves, this recipe can be easily doubled. Just make sure to adjust your baking time, as larger quantities might require an additional 10-15 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on the loaf while it bakes; when the edges are golden and a toothpick inserted comes clean, it’s ready to come out.

Variations to Try

While this recipe is already a classic, it invites many variations that can enhance your experience. For a chocolate twist, fold in some chocolate chips or chunks to the batter before baking. If you enjoy a nutty flavor, adding finely chopped walnuts or pecans can give an added texture and depth to the bread. For a tropical flair, consider mixing in a cup of shredded coconut or even diced pineapple for a juicy surprise in every bite.

For those who prefer less sugar, feel free to adjust the quantities of both brown and granulated sugar. Reducing the sugar by 1/4 cup will still maintain flavor while making the bread less sweet. Be cautious with substitutions so that the texture remains consistent.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

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

→ How do I store leftover banana bread?

Store it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for a week.

→ Can I make this banana bread gluten-free?

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

→ What can I add to enhance the flavor?

You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.