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 unsalted butter, melted; 1 cup sugar; 1 large egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Highlighted under: Daily Cooking

I absolutely love making this Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor, especially on lazy weekends. The blend of ripe bananas and rich espresso creates an irresistible flavor that's perfect for breakfast or as a delightful snack. Each slice is moist and not overly sweet, making it a great pick-me-up with my morning coffee. This recipe allows the natural sweetness of the bananas to shine while the espresso adds just the right amount of depth. Trust me, once you try this, you'll be making it again and again!

Created by

Arden Whitlock

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:13:35.005Z

When I first came across the idea of adding espresso to banana bread, I was skeptical, but I decided to give it a shot. After experimenting with the proportions, I found that just the right amount of espresso enhanced the bread’s overall flavor profile without overpowering it. I also learned that using really ripe bananas makes all the difference in achieving the perfect texture.

The process is straightforward: I just mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, then fold everything together gently. This method ensures that my banana bread is remarkably fluffy. The addition of walnuts gives it a satisfying crunch, complementing the espresso beautifully.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Rich banana flavor balanced with a hint of coffee
Perfectly moist texture that stays fresh for days
Quick and easy preparation for busy mornings

The Perfect Espresso Addition

In this Banana Bread with Espresso Flavor, the inclusion of brewed espresso is what elevates the traditional banana bread experience. The coffee not only amplifies the sweetness of the ripe bananas but also adds a layer of complexity to the flavor profile. Make sure to use a strong espresso that you enjoy drinking, as this will directly affect the richness of the final product. A good rule of thumb is to use espresso that has been cooled to ensure it mixes well without cooking the eggs in the batter.

Opting for a freshly brewed espresso will yield the best results. If you don't have an espresso machine, a strong brewed coffee can serve as a substitute, although it may alter the flavor slightly. For those who prefer a caffeine-free option, consider using decaffeinated espresso. Regardless of the type you choose, aim for a 1/4 cup measurement to achieve a balanced taste without overpowering the bananas.

Texture and Storage Tips

Achieving the perfectly moist texture is crucial for this banana bread. The combination of ripe bananas and melted butter creates a richness, while the baking soda ensures the loaf rises beautifully. To keep the banana bread moist even after cooling, consider wrapping it in plastic wrap once it has completely cooled. This will help retain the moisture for 3-4 days, making it an ideal quick breakfast option or snack throughout the week.

For longer storage, you can also freeze the banana bread. It freezes well for up to three months. To do this, slice the loaf once cooled and store individual pieces in airtight plastic bags. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply remove a slice, let it thaw, and reheat in the microwave for a few seconds to restore that just-baked flavor. This makes it a convenient treat for busy days!

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1 cup sugar
1 large egg, beaten
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup brewed espresso, cooled
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

Make sure you measure your ingredients accurately for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to bake your banana bread:

Preheat Oven

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

Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, sugar, beaten egg, vanilla extract, and espresso. Mix until smooth.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, mix together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Combine Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Add Walnuts

Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.

Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for about 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the banana bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Enjoy your delicious banana bread with a cup of coffee!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, try adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Once your banana bread with espresso flavor is baked and cooled, it's time to enjoy it! This bread pairs wonderfully with a smear of cream cheese or a pat of butter, which can accentuate the espresso's richness. For a touch of indulgence, try adding a drizzle of chocolate or caramel sauce on top. It also makes for an impressive dessert when served with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

This banana bread holds up well as a breakfast food, but you can enjoy it as an afternoon treat as well. Serve it alongside a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk to complement the flavors. If you're entertaining guests, consider serving it with a seasonal fruit salad for a fresh side.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your banana bread has risen unevenly or has a dense texture, a likely culprit is overmixing the batter. After combining the dry ingredients with the wet, mix just until you see no dry flour. This helps maintain a light and fluffy texture. Also, ensure that your bananas are truly ripe—overripe bananas not only contribute to the flavor but also to the moisture that keeps the bread from becoming dry.

Another common issue is the bread being undercooked in the center. To avoid this, always perform the toothpick test about 5-10 minutes before the suggested baking time. Insert a toothpick in the center of the loaf; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your banana bread is done. If it’s still wet, rotate the pan and continue baking, checking every 5 minutes to prevent over-baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.

→ Is it possible to use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! You can substitute walnuts with pecans or even omit them entirely if you prefer a nut-free option.

→ How should I store the banana bread?

Store the banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze it.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! You can substitute the egg with a flaxseed egg and use coconut oil instead of butter.