Introduction
There’s something wonderfully comforting about the aroma of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your home. This delightful Coffee Cake Banana Bread merges the classic flavors of banana bread with the rich, aromatic warmth of coffee cake, creating a treat that is perfect for a cozy morning or an afternoon snack. With a soft, moist crumb and the option to add walnuts or chocolate chips, this recipe is a burst of flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (about 4 medium bananas)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup chocolate chips (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring it’s ready to embrace the delicious batter.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a beautiful base for your bread.
- Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract into the bowl, mixing until everything is well combined into a luscious, smooth blend.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This combination will bring a lovely warmth to the bread.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want that lovely, tender crumb!
- If you’re choosing to add them, fold in the chopped walnuts and chocolate chips to the batter, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that it’s perfectly baked.
- Allow the banana bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The anticipation will be worth it!
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas; their natural sweetness and flavor will enhance the bread considerably. If you prefer a nut-free option, simply omit the walnuts. You can also experiment with adding spices like nutmeg or swapping some of the flour for whole wheat flour for added texture and flavor.
Cooking Techniques
Remember to cream the butter and sugars thoroughly to incorporate air into the mixture, yielding a lighter texture. Also, folding in additional ingredients like nuts or chocolate should be done gently to avoid deflating the batter. Finally, keep an eye on the baking time, as ovens can vary; checking for doneness with a toothpick is always a trusty method.
FAQ
Can I freeze this banana bread?
Absolutely! Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature.
How do I know if my banana bread is done baking?
A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a bit more time in the oven.
Conclusion
This Coffee Cake Banana Bread is more than just a delightful baking project; it’s a heartfelt expression of comfort and joy. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee in the morning or as a sweet treat in the afternoon, each slice offers a warm embrace. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let this delicious bread fill your home with warmth and happiness. Happy baking!