Moist Banana Bread with Crunchy Streusel Topping
Gather the following ingredients to make this delicious banana bread:
– **For the Banana Bread:**
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– A dash of nutmeg
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup white sugar
– 2 large eggs, at room temperature
– 4 very ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/4 cup buttermilk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
– **For the Streusel Topping:**
– 3 tablespoons flour
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into pieces
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Directions
Prepare your kitchen for baking with the following steps:
- Step 1: Preheat the oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Step 2: To make the streusel topping, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Cut in the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in chopped walnuts and set aside.
- Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together 2 cups flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Step 4: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter, brown sugar, and white sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Step 5: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well to combine after each addition.
- Step 6: Stir in the mashed bananas, buttermilk, and vanilla extract until just combined.
- Step 7: Gently mix in the dry ingredients until just combined; do not overmix.
- Step 8: Fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Step 9: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top.
- Step 10: Bake for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Step 11: Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Serve warm or at room temperature.
FAQ
1. Can I freeze banana bread?
Yes, you can freeze banana bread! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
2. How can I tell if my bananas are ripe enough?
Look for bananas with a lot of brown spots. The more spots, the sweeter and more flavorful they will be in your banana bread.
3. Can I substitute the buttermilk?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with a cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before use.
4. What can I use instead of walnuts?
Feel free to replace walnuts with pecans, chocolate chips, or even leave them out entirely for a nut-free version.
5. How long does banana bread last at room temperature?
At room temperature, banana bread can last 3 to 4 days if stored in an airtight container. For longer freshness, refrigerate or freeze it.
Conclusion
This moist banana bread with a crunchy streusel topping is a delightful treat that’s easy to make and even easier to enjoy. Whether served for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this recipe adds warmth and sweetness to your kitchen. Grab those ripe bananas, and let’s get baking!
