Introduction
Embrace the warmth of autumn with this delightful Banana Pumpkin Streusel Quick Bread! Combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, velvety texture of pumpkin puree, this easy-to-make quick bread is a perfect treat to share with family and friends. With each bite, you’ll experience a comforting blend of warm spices and a delightful crumbly streusel topping that adds just the right amount of crunch. It’s the perfect cozy addition to your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Ingredients
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1/2 cup streusel topping
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
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 to ensure your bread comes out perfectly.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well until everything is fully combined, and the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger to create a fragrant spice blend.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix! If you’re adding nuts, now is the time to fold them in for an extra crunch.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly to promote even baking.
- In a small bowl, prepare the streusel topping by mixing together butter, flour, and sugar until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this delightful topping evenly over the batter in the loaf pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, revealing that golden brown top.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will help maintain its moisture and perfect texture.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. Feel free to substitute the nuts with chocolate chips or dried fruit for a different twist! If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, it freezes beautifully. Just wrap it tightly and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up before serving.
Cooking Techniques
This quick bread relies on the balance of wet and dry ingredients to create a moist crumb. Be sure to measure your flour properly—spoon and level it into the measuring cup for accuracy. Mixing should be done gently to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense loaf. Don’t skip the streusel topping; it adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the moist bread.
FAQ
Can I use fresh pumpkin instead of canned puree?
You can absolutely use fresh pumpkin! Just make sure to cook and puree it until smooth.
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Be cautious not to check too early, as this can lead to batter sticking to the toothpick.
Can I make this bread vegan?
Yes! You can substitute eggs with chia seeds or flax seeds mixed with water, and use a plant-based oil.
Conclusion
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Banana Pumpkin Streusel Quick Bread. It’s perfect for gatherings, a sweet breakfast, or a delightful snack. The fusion of banana and pumpkin creates a nourishing treat that feels like a warm hug in every slice. So, grab your ingredients, preheat that oven, and enjoy the wonderful aromas that will fill your kitchen!