Banana Bread with Streusel Crumb Topping is a deliciously moist loaf packed with ripe banana sweetness and a crunchy, buttery crumb topping that adds the perfect touch of texture. The crumbly streusel is made with simple ingredients like cinnamon, sugar, and butter, which make every bite feel extra special. This banana bread feels warm and comforting, like a cozy hug in food form.
I love making this banana bread when I have a bunch of overripe bananas that need a little love. The streusel topping is my favorite part—it gives that classic banana bread something special and makes it feel like a treat, not just everyday breakfast. Plus, the smell that fills the house while it bakes is impossible to resist. I always catch myself sneaking slices right out of the oven once it cools just enough.
My favorite way to enjoy this bread is with a big spread of butter or even a little cream cheese on top. It’s perfect for breakfast, snack time, or a cozy afternoon pick-me-up. I find it’s best shared with friends or family—there’s something about passing around a warm loaf that makes everything feel a little brighter. If you have some bananas on the counter, give this recipe a try—you won’t regret it!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: The riper, the better! Brown spots mean they’re perfect for this banana bread. If you only have firmer bananas, just wait a day or two. Mashed bananas add natural sweetness and moisture.
Butter: Butter adds richness and flavor. You can substitute with equal parts oil, like vegetable or canola, for a lighter texture, though the flavor shifts a little.
Sour Cream or Yogurt: This keeps the bread moist and tender. You can skip it or replace with the same amount of buttermilk or milk if needed.
Streusel Topping: The cold butter is key here; it creates those crumbly, crunchy bits. If you want to mix it up, try adding chopped nuts or oats for extra texture.
How Do You Make the Perfect Streusel Crumb Topping?
The secret to a great streusel topping is using cold butter and working quickly. Here’s how:
- Mix the dry ingredients (sugar, flour, cinnamon) first so flavors evenly distribute.
- Add cold, diced butter pieces.
- Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to rub the butter into the dry mix. Stop when crumbs form but butter chunks are still visible.
- Don’t overwork it—this keeps the crumb texture light and flaky.
- Sprinkle evenly on top of batter before baking for a crunchy topping that contrasts the soft bread.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×5 inch loaf pan – I use this size because it ensures the bread bakes evenly and fits easily in the oven. Lining with parchment makes removal simple.
- Mixing bowls – You’ll need at least two: one for dry ingredients and one for wet. They help keep your work organized.
- Whisk or spoon – For mixing the ingredients thoroughly without overworking the batter.
- Pastry cutter or fingers – To cut in the cold butter for the streusel topping, making crumbs that crispen up nicely.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements guarantee perfect results every time.
- Toothpick or cake tester – To check when your banana bread is baked to perfection.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Chocolate chips or chunks – Stir some into the batter or sprinkle on top of the streusel for a chocolate twist that everyone loves.
- Walnuts or pecans – Add chopped nuts to the batter or as part of the streusel for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
- Blueberries or raspberries – Gently fold in berries for a fruity variation that pairs beautifully with banana.
- Spices like nutmeg or ginger – Mix these into the batter or streusel to add warmth and depth to the flavor.
Banana Bread with Streusel Crumb Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Banana Bread:
- 1 ¾ cups (220g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ¼ cups)
- ½ cup (120ml) sour cream or plain yogurt (optional for moistness)
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar or light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup (42g) all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 4 tablespoons (57g) unsalted butter, cold and diced
How Much Time Will You Need?
This banana bread recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus 60 to 70 minutes baking time. After baking, there’s about 15 minutes to cool before slicing and enjoying. So, plan for roughly 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9×5 inch loaf pan well or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set this aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This helps create a tender texture.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
5. Combine Bananas and Sour Cream
Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream (if you’re using it) until they’re fully combined with the wet ingredients.
6. Fold in the Dry Ingredients
Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until everything is blended. Avoid overmixing to keep your bread tender.
7. Pour Batter into Pan
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing out the top evenly.
8. Make the Streusel Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the sugar, flour, and cinnamon. Add the cold, diced butter, and use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until you have crumbly pieces resembling coarse crumbs.
9. Add Streusel to the Batter
Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the banana bread batter to cover the surface.
10. Bake
Bake for 60 to 70 minutes. Around the 55-minute mark, check your loaf by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean. If the topping starts browning too fast, tent the bread lightly with foil.
11. Cool and Serve
Let the banana bread cool in the pan for about 15 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and enjoy your delicious loaf with its crunchy streusel topping!
Can I Use Frozen Bananas for This Banana Bread?
Yes! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. This helps keep your batter from becoming too watery.
How Should I Store Leftover Banana Bread?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week. You can also freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.
Can I Make This Banana Bread Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free yogurt or skip the sour cream altogether. The texture might vary slightly but it will still taste great.
What If I Don’t Have Sour Cream or Yogurt?
No worries! You can omit it or replace with the same amount of milk or buttermilk. The bread might be a bit less moist but will still be delicious.