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When you’re craving the cozy flavors of banana bread with a bold coffee kick, this loaf delivers on all fronts. The combination of ripe bananas, aromatic espresso, and crunchy almonds is sweet enough for a weekend treat yet balanced enough for everyday enjoyment. Let’s dive into this comforting (and slightly caffeinated) favorite!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- ⅓ cup melted unsalted butter
- ½ cup brown sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon instant espresso powder
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup chopped almonds (plus extra for sprinkling on top)
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup. In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas and melted butter, whisking until smooth and creamy. Stir in the brown sugar, egg, and vanilla extract, making sure everything is well blended.
Next, sprinkle in the instant espresso powder, letting it dissolve into the wet mixture. This will give your banana bread a backbone of deep coffee flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined—overmixing can make the loaf dense.
Fold half a cup of chopped almonds into the batter for that delightful crunch in every bite. Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and top with a generous handful of additional almonds. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
This Espresso Almond Crunch Banana Bread is perfect for anyone who appreciates a little pep in their morning slice. It’s warm, satisfying, and nicely sweet without being overwhelming. If you prefer a gluten-free version, swap the all-purpose flour with your favorite gluten-free blend. For an even richer taste, toss in a handful of chocolate chips. Whether you’re a die-hard coffee lover, a busy parent in need of a quick breakfast, or simply on the lookout for a new way to enjoy ripe bananas, this loaf has you covered. Sweet, nutty, and wonderfully caffeinated, each slice brings a little extra sunshine—and energy—to your day.
