Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor Recipe

Name: Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup melted butter; 1 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 pinch of salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 2 tablespoons espresso powder (or strong coffee); 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Highlighted under: Cozy Kitchen

I absolutely love baking banana bread, and adding espresso flavor takes it to a whole new level! The rich aroma of coffee intertwines perfectly with the sweetness of ripe bananas, creating a deliciously unique loaf that's perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack. I enjoy experimenting with new variations, and this espresso twist is now a favorite in my kitchen. Plus, it's quick to whip up, making it the perfect choice for those busy mornings when I crave something special yet homemade.

Created by

Phoebe Langridge

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:29:34.681Z

Baking has always been my little escape, and I treasure moments spent in the kitchen developing new recipes. In my quest for the perfect banana bread, I decided to add espresso for a twist and wasn't disappointed. The deep coffee flavor enhances the natural sweetness of the bananas beautifully, and it makes the whole kitchen smell amazing!

One tip I learned is to use really ripe bananas—like, the more brown spots, the better! This not only maximizes sweetness but also ensures a moist texture that you can't resist. I paired this with a light sprinkle of nuts, which adds a delightful crunch each bite.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich coffee aroma that enhances the banana flavor
Moist and tender crumb with added texture from nuts
Simple to make and perfect for any time of the day

      

The Perfect Ripe Bananas

Choosing the right bananas is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture in your banana bread. Ideally, you want bananas that are overripe, with a high level of sweetness and that lovely black speckle pattern. This ensures your bread has a moist crumb and pronounced banana flavor. If you don’t have ripe bananas on hand, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag at room temperature for a day or two.

In my experience, using three medium to large bananas gives just the right amount of sweetness and moisture. If your bananas aren’t overly soft but you're short on time, you can microwave them unpeeled for about 30-40 seconds on high. Let them cool before using, but this method can result in a loss of some of their characteristic flavor.

Espresso Powder: An Essential Ingredient

Espresso powder not only enhances the coffee aroma but also deepens the flavor profile of your banana bread. When added, it brings a richness that balances perfectly with the sweetness of the bananas. If you don't have espresso powder, you can substitute it with strong brewed coffee—just ensure it's cooled before adding to the mixture. Using espresso powder is preferable because it dissolves completely, ensuring an even flavor throughout the loaf.

Remember to dissolve the espresso powder in hot water before mixing it in; this ensures that the coffee flavor is fully integrated into the batter. If you opt for brewed coffee instead, reduce the overall liquid content slightly to maintain the right batter consistency.

Customizing Your Banana Bread

This banana bread recipe offers a great base for customization. You can experiment with different nuts like pecans or even pumpkin seeds for a unique crunch. If you want to add a hint of spice, consider folding in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a splash of almond extract for added warmth. For a more decadent treat, try mixing in a handful of chocolate chips; the richness complements the banana perfectly.

If you prefer to make it healthier, consider substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This adjustment can give your bread a denser texture while adding a nutty flavor. Just be mindful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a tougher loaf.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients:

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup melted butter
1 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 pinch of salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons espresso powder (or strong coffee)
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

Mix these ingredients together for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your banana bread:

Preheat the Oven

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

Combine Wet Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with the mashed bananas. Stir in the sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract until well blended.

Add Espresso and Dry Ingredients

Dissolve the espresso powder in a small amount of hot water to make a coffee mixture. Add this to the banana mixture. Then add the baking soda and salt. Mix in the flour until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Fold in walnuts if using.

Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the banana bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Enjoy your delicious banana bread!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, try adding a sprinkle of cinnamon or chocolate chips to the batter before baking.

Storage Tips

Once your banana bread has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and placing it in the refrigerator for up to a week. This will help maintain its moisture and freshness.

For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices or the whole loaf. Slice your banana bread after it has cooled and wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep for about three months. To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or pop it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

Serving Suggestions

This espresso-flavored banana bread is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it further by serving it with a spread like creamy peanut butter or a drizzle of honey. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a latte, enhancing the espresso notes in the bread. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a smear of cream cheese frosting can turn it into a special treat for brunch.

For a more indulgent dessert, try toasting your slices and topping them with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast of warm bread and cold ice cream makes for a comforting and satisfying dessert that can wow your guests.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your banana bread comes out too dense, it may be a result of overmixing the batter. To avoid this, mix until just combined when adding the flour. Remember, a few lumps are okay. If your bread is too dry, ensure that your bananas are ripe enough; they should be almost mushy. Adding a little extra melted butter can also help retain moisture.

Should you find that the top of your bread is browning too quickly, you can tent it with aluminum foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking. This will help prevent burning while allowing the inside to continue cooking properly. Always check for doneness with a toothpick—if it comes out with a few moist crumbs, it's perfect!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

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

→ What can I substitute for the walnuts?

You can omit the walnuts or replace them with pecans or chocolate chips.

→ How do I store the banana bread?

Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.

→ Can I freeze the banana bread?

Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil to freeze for up to 3 months.