Name: Crème Brûlée Banana Bread
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (plus extra for topping); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

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Crème Brûlée Banana Bread is a decadent twist on classic banana bread, topped with a crisp caramelized sugar layer that cracks just like the dessert it’s inspired by. The inside is moist, rich, and packed with banana flavor, while the top gives it that fancy, brûléed finish that makes every slice feel like a treat.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this banana bread takes things up a notch with a golden, crunchy sugar top that mimics the best part of crème brûlée. It’s everything I want in a banana bread — soft, sweet, and full of flavor — but with an extra layer of texture and elegance. Whether I’m baking for myself, a brunch, or a gift, this version never fails to impress.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Ripe bananas (the spottier, the better)
All-purpose flour
Baking soda
Salt
Unsalted butter (melted)
Brown sugar
Granulated sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for extra moisture)
Granulated sugar (for the brûlée topping)

Directions

I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a standard loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
In a mixing bowl, I mash the bananas until smooth.
I whisk in the melted butter, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla, and sour cream until well combined.
In a separate bowl, I mix the flour, baking soda, and salt.
I stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture just until combined — I don’t overmix.
I pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
I bake it for about 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Once it’s fully baked and slightly cooled (but still warm), I sprinkle an even layer of granulated sugar on top.
Using a kitchen torch, I brûlée the sugar until it bubbles and caramelizes into a golden crust. If I don’t have a torch, I broil the loaf in the oven for a couple of minutes — keeping a close eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
I let the caramelized sugar set for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 1 loaf, which gives about 8–10 slices. It takes around 15 minutes to prep and 50–60 minutes to bake, plus 10–15 minutes to cool and brûlée.

Variations

Sometimes I add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a cozy spice note. I’ve also folded in chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture. If I’m feeling fancy, I serve each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. I’ve even used mini loaf pans to make individual brûlée banana breads — perfect for gifts.

Storage/Reheating

I store the banana bread tightly wrapped at room temperature for up to 3 days. The brûlée topping stays crisp for the first day or two, but softens over time. For longer storage, I refrigerate it for up to 5 days or freeze slices individually wrapped. To bring back the crunchy topping, I reheat a slice under the broiler for a minute or torch the top again just before serving.

FAQs

Do I need a kitchen torch for the brûlée topping?

It helps, but I’ve done it under the broiler. I just make sure to watch closely — the sugar can burn quickly.

Can I use yogurt instead of sour cream?

Yes, I often use plain Greek yogurt as a substitute. It adds the same moisture and tang.

What’s the best way to get a crackly sugar top?

I use a thin, even layer of granulated sugar and torch or broil it right after the bread has slightly cooled — when it’s still warm but firm.

Can I skip the brûlée topping?

Definitely. The banana bread itself is still rich and flavorful on its own — the brûlée is just a fun extra.

How ripe should my bananas be?

The riper, the better. I use bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.

Conclusion

Crème Brûlée Banana Bread is a next-level twist on a classic favorite. It’s soft, flavorful, and topped with a caramelized crunch that makes it stand out from the crowd. Whether I’m baking for a special occasion or just treating myself, this recipe always hits the sweet spot.