Description
A sophisticated twist on a classic favorite, bringing cozy coffee house flavors into your kitchen. Combining deep notes of espresso with the sweetness of ripe bananas and a rich caramel swirl, finished with a buttery brown sugar glaze that sets into a fudge-like crust.
Ingredients
The Espresso Banana Base
- 1 cup mashed bananas (2–3 bananas)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar & 2 tsp granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup oil + 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp instant espresso granules
- 1 large egg, 1 tsp vanilla, 0.5 tsp baking powder, 0.5 tsp baking soda, 0.25 tsp salt
The Swirl & Glaze
- 1/4 cup thick caramel sauce
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 6 tbsp light brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla & pinch of salt
Instructions
Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Mix: Whisk egg, sugars, oil, sour cream, espresso, and vanilla. Stir in dry ingredients, then fold in bananas.
Swirl: Pour batter into pan. Drizzle caramel over the top (avoid edges) and swirl 1 inch deep with a knife.
Bake: Bake for 45–50 mins. Cool in pan.
Glaze: Simmer butter, brown sugar, vanilla, and salt on low for 3 mins without stirring. Let cool 5 mins, then pour over warm bread. Let set for 1 hour.
Notes
Avoid the Edge: Keep caramel insulated by batter to prevent scorching against the metal pan.
The Glaze ‘Dimple’: The 3-minute simmer is essential for reaching the temperature needed to set into fudge rather than syrup.
Espresso vs. Coffee: Espresso is highly concentrated; double the amount if using standard instant coffee.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Quick Bread / Dessert
- Method: Swirling / Stovetop Glaze
- Cuisine: Coffeehouse Inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 Slice
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 29
- Sodium: 185
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Unsaturated Fat: 11
- Trans Fat: 0.3
- Carbohydrates: 45
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 3
- Cholesterol: 45
Keywords: caramel macchiato banana bread, espresso banana loaf, salted caramel banana bread, coffee flavored bread, brown sugar glaze, moist banana bread recipe, breakfast pastry