Banana Bread Coffee Cake Muffins

These Banana Bread Coffee Cake Muffins combine the moist, rich flavor of classic banana bread with the irresistible crumbly topping of a traditional coffee cake. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a mid-day treat, these muffins offer a delightful twist on two beloved baked goods.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These muffins are a hybrid of two favorites—banana bread and coffee cake—bringing you the best of both worlds. They’re moist and tender thanks to overripe bananas, while the buttery cinnamon streusel topping adds a sweet crunch. Ideal for meal prep, special occasions, or simply enjoying with your morning coffee, these muffins are as convenient as they are delicious.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe bananas

• All-purpose flour

• Baking soda

• Baking powder

• Salt

• Ground cinnamon

• Unsalted butter

• Brown sugar

• Granulated sugar

• Eggs

• Vanilla extract

• Sour cream or Greek yogurt

• Optional: chopped walnuts or pecans

For the streusel topping:

• All-purpose flour

• Brown sugar

• Ground cinnamon

• Unsalted butter (cold and cubed)

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners or lightly grease it.

2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.

3. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and mashed bananas. Mix until well combined.

5. Stir in the sour cream or Greek yogurt.

6. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Do not overmix.

7. For the streusel, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Cut in the cold butter using a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

8. Fill each muffin cup about ¾ full with the batter, then top generously with the streusel mixture.

9. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean.

10. Allow muffins to cool in the tin for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 standard-sized muffins.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes

Variations

• Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter or streusel topping.

• Chocolate Twist: Mix in mini chocolate chips for an indulgent treat.

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

• Dairy-Free: Substitute coconut oil for butter and a plant-based yogurt for sour cream.

• Spiced Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cloves for a deeper spice profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store the muffins in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat, microwave each muffin for 15–20 seconds or warm in a 300°F oven for 5–7 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

What makes these muffins different from regular banana muffins?

They have a cinnamon streusel topping like a coffee cake, adding a sweet and crunchy layer on top.

Can I make these muffins ahead of time?

Yes, they store well and can be frozen. Reheat as needed for a quick breakfast or snack.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw and drain any excess liquid from frozen bananas before using.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Plain Greek yogurt is a perfect substitute for sour cream in this recipe.

How do I know when the muffins are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of a muffin; if it comes out clean, they are done.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose?

Yes, but the texture will be slightly denser. Consider using half whole wheat and half all-purpose for balance.

Is it necessary to use a muffin liner?

Not required, but it makes cleanup easier. You can also grease the muffin tin well as an alternative.

Can I add fruits like blueberries or raspberries?

Yes, gently fold them into the batter, but keep the quantity moderate to maintain the muffin’s structure.

How can I make the muffins more moist?

Ensure your bananas are very ripe and don’t overbake. You can also slightly increase the sour cream or yogurt.

What’s the best way to achieve a crumbly streusel?

Use cold butter and cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture is crumbly, not smooth.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Coffee Cake Muffins are a perfect marriage of flavor and texture, blending the cozy familiarity of banana bread with the delightful crunch of a coffee cake topping. Whether for breakfast, brunch, or a comforting snack, these muffins are a satisfying option that can be easily customized to your taste. Keep a batch on hand to brighten any day with homemade warmth and flavor.