Introduction to Banana Coffee Cake
A delightful twist on tradition
Imagine a cozy morning, the aroma of freshly baked goods wafting through your home, and a slice of banana coffee cake waiting for you. This recipe combines the nostalgic flavors of homemade banana bread with the sweet, buttery notes of a classic coffee cake, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends or simply indulging yourself on a quiet Sunday morning, this cake will elevate your coffee experience to new heights.
What makes this banana coffee cake stand out is its incredible moisture and flavor — thanks to ripe bananas and a hint of cinnamon sugar swirl. The luscious crumble on top adds that extra crunch, making it an irresistible option for anyone who loves a good sweet treat. You can truly impress your guests with this simple yet sophisticated dessert.
If you’re looking for a way to use those ripe bananas sitting on your counter, or just want to try something new, this banana coffee cake is a perfect choice! Get ready to savor every bite as you delight in this unique twist on a traditional favorite. For more delicious ideas, check out Bon Appétit’s guide to baking and treats!
Ingredients for Banana Coffee Cake
Creating the perfect banana coffee cake involves a few simple ingredients that come together to create a delightful treat. Let’s break it down!
Essential Ingredients for the Banana Cake
You'll need the following for a moist base:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ⅓ cup sour cream, at room temperature
- 1 large egg, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
Ingredients for the Cinnamon Sugar Swirl
This sweet swirl elevates your cake:
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
Ingredients for the Crumble Topping
Crispy crumble adds that extra crunch:
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ⅓ cup granulated sugar
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
Icing Ingredients
Finish off with a sweet touch:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
This combination not only makes your banana coffee cake flavorful but also visually appealing. For tips on how to adjust these ingredients for dietary needs, check out Food Network’s guide to substitutions. Happy baking!
Preparing Banana Coffee Cake
Making a delicious banana coffee cake at home is an engaging and rewarding experience. This cake is moist and flavorful, perfectly blending the sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich crumble topping. Ready to dive in? Let’s get started!
Preheat your oven and prepare the pan
The first step is to preheat your oven to 325°F (160°C). This ensures your banana coffee cake rises beautifully and bakes evenly. While that's heating up, grab an 8x8 baking pan. Grease it and line it with parchment paper, allowing some to hang over the sides. This makes for easy removal later on—no one wants to wrestle with a stuck cake!
Make the crumble topping
Now, let’s create that irresistible crumble topping! In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup and 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and both types of sugar (granulated and light brown). Mix in a half cup of melted unsalted butter until the mixture resembles wet sand. Pop it in the refrigerator while you move on to the cake itself. This step will help the crumble stay nice and crunchy once baked.
Mix the dry ingredients for the cake
In another bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour, ¾ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This blend is crucial because it gives the cake its structure. Set this aside while you mix the wet ingredients.
Combine the wet ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 tablespoons of melted butter with both granulated and light brown sugars until they’re well combined. Next, add in ⅓ cup of sour cream (room temperature), 1 large egg (also room temperature), 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ¾ cup of mashed ripe bananas—about two medium bananas. The key here is to ensure everything is mixed thoroughly, creating a flavorful base for your banana coffee cake.
Incorporate the dry ingredients
Gently fold in the dry ingredients from your earlier bowl using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix or your cake could end up tough!
Layer the cake batter and cinnamon sugar
Spread half of the batter into the prepared pan. In a separate small bowl, mix 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar with 1 ½ teaspoons of cinnamon to create your cinnamon sugar. Sprinkle this mixture over the first layer of batter for a delightful swirl effect. Cover with the remaining batter and spread it evenly across the top.
Add the crumble topping
Remove the chilled crumble from the refrigerator. It should be cold and firm—crumble it evenly over the top of the batter. This will create a delicious crunch.
Bake to perfection
Now for the best part: baking! Place your banana coffee cake in the oven for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs attached.
Prepare the icing while cooling
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 30–40 minutes. During this time, whisk together ½ cup of powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk to create a smooth icing. If it’s too thick, add more milk a little at a time until you achieve a drizzle-friendly consistency.
Drizzle and enjoy
Once your cake is slightly warm, drizzle your icing over the top. And there you have it! Enjoy your homemade banana coffee cake, perfect for a cozy morning or an afternoon treat. Trust me; this dessert is worth the wait!
Variations on Banana Coffee Cake
There are so many fun variations to try with this banana coffee cake that allow you to put your own spin on the classic recipe.
Adding nuts or chocolate chips
Consider folding in some chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch, or throw in chocolate chips for a touch of sweetness. Both options complement the banana flavor beautifully!
Swapping out sour cream for Greek yogurt
If you want to make it a bit healthier, try substituting the sour cream with Greek yogurt. This swap adds protein and creates a moist texture while imparting a subtle tang that elevates the cake.
Alternative toppings, like homemade salted caramel
For the toppings, you can get creative! Drizzle your banana coffee cake with homemade salted caramel instead of icing for a decadent finish. The salt enhances the sweetness, making every bite divine.
Feel free to experiment and discover what variations make your taste buds dance!
Baking notes for Banana Coffee Cake
Tips for achieving the perfect texture
For a delightfully moist banana coffee cake, ensure your bananas are fully ripe. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds moisture. Combine ingredients gently—overmixing can lead to a dense cake. A rubber spatula can help with this! Lastly, let the cake cool in the pan for a bit before transferring it to a wire rack; this helps maintain its structure.
Common baking pitfalls to avoid
Watch out for underbaking; a toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. If you’ve made this banana coffee cake before, resist the urge to open the oven door too soon—this can cause it to sink. Also, remember that oven temperatures can vary, so it might be worth investing in an oven thermometer for precise baking.
If you're interested in perfecting your baking skills, consider checking out baking science for more tips!
Serving suggestions for Banana Coffee Cake
Ideal pairings with coffee or tea
Enjoying your banana coffee cake? Pair it with a rich coffee or soothing tea to elevate the experience. A dark roast coffee doubles down on the cake's sweetness, while a chai or Earl Grey tea brings a delightful spice that complements the cinnamon. For a dessert touch, consider a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.
Creative plating ideas
Impress your friends by plating your banana coffee cake creatively! Cut it into elegant squares and serve on a decorative cake stand. Drizzle the icing artfully over each piece and sprinkle with chopped nuts for a finish. For a touch of freshness, add a few banana slices or mint leaves as garnish. This not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the flavor. For inspiration, check out The Kitchn’s plating ideas.
Tips for Making Perfect Banana Coffee Cake
Choosing Ripe Bananas
When it comes to making your banana coffee cake, the ripeness of your bananas can make or break your recipe. Aim for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots, as they will yield a richer flavor and add the perfect moisture to your cake. If you’ve got bananas that are too green, try placing them in a paper bag for a day or so to speed up the ripening process. Trust me, those sweet, juicy bananas will elevate your cake to new heights!
The Right Baking Pan for Even Cooking
Selecting the right baking pan is essential for achieving that perfect texture. An 8x8-inch square pan works wonders for this recipe, as it allows for even heat distribution and ensures that your banana coffee cake bakes evenly throughout. Don’t forget to grease and line the pan with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over the edges for easy removal. This helps you get those coveted clean slices without any hassle at serving time!
Time details for Banana Coffee Cake
Preparation time
Getting started on your banana coffee cake? You'll spend about 15 minutes gathering your ingredients and mixing everything together. This is the perfect time to get your kitchen warmed up and your favorite coffee brewing!
Baking time
Once your batter is prepped, let the cake bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes. You can use this time to tidy up or take a little break—you’ve earned it!
Cooling time
After baking, allow your cake to cool for about 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect slice. A warm cake may crumble, so patience is key!
For more tips on cooling baked goods, you can check out resources from King Arthur Baking.
Nutritional information for Banana Coffee Cake
Calories per slice
This delightful banana coffee cake packs approximately 180 calories per slice, making it a great afternoon pick-me-up without derailing your healthy eating goals.
Sugar content
With about 12 grams of sugar in each slice, it strikes a balance between sweet indulgence and mindful eating. You’ll enjoy that lovely flavor without the overwhelming sugar rush.
Key nutrients
Each slice offers a source of dietary fiber rich in potassium from the bananas, alongside essential vitamins, thanks to the eggs and dairy. It’s not just dessert; it has nourishing factors that contribute to your balanced diet!
If you're curious about how to incorporate more nutritional options into your baking, check out this resource on substituting ingredients.
FAQs about Banana Coffee Cake
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! This banana coffee cake can be made a day in advance. Simply bake it, allow it to cool completely, and then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Store it at room temperature, and the flavors will meld beautifully overnight, making for an even more delicious treat the next day. Just remember to drizzle the icing on right before serving for that fresh look!
Can I freeze banana coffee cake?
Yes, you can freeze this delightful banana coffee cake. After it has completely cooled, slice it into individual pieces, and wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It’ll last for about 2-3 months in the freezer. Just thaw at room temperature for a few hours before enjoying!
What can I substitute for sour cream?
If you need a substitute for sour cream in your banana coffee cake, don’t worry! You can use Greek yogurt or even buttermilk as a 1:1 replacement. Both options will keep your cake moist while adding a little tanginess to the flavor profile. For additional tips on baking with substitutes, check out this helpful guide.
Conclusion on Banana Coffee Cake
In summary, this banana coffee cake is an irresistible blend of flavors and textures that will brighten up any brunch table or cozy afternoon. With its rich banana base, aromatic cinnamon swirl, and crunchy crumble topping, it's sure to become a beloved treat in your kitchen. Enjoy!
Banana Coffee Cake
Equipment
- 8×8 baking pan
- mixing bowls
- Rubber spatula
- whisk
Ingredients
Banana Cake
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 0.75 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 0.33 cup sour cream, room temp
- 1 large egg, room temp
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 0.75 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
Cinnamon Sugar
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon
Crumble
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.33 cup granulated sugar
- 0.33 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted
Icing
- 0.5 cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 325F and grease and line an 8×8 baking pan, allowing the paper to hang over the sides for easy removal.
- Start by making the crumble – Combine the flour, cinnamon, and sugars in a bowl. Then mix in the melted butter. The mixture should resemble wet sand. Place the bowl in the refrigerator to chill while the rest of the cake is made.
- For the banana cake, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugars and butter.
- Once fully combined, whisk in the sour cream, egg, vanilla, and mashed banana.
- Gently mix in the dry ingredients using a rubber spatula.
- Spread half of the batter into the pan. Combine the cinnamon sugar mixture and sprinkle an even layer on top.
- Cover with the remaining batter and gently spread it even.
- Remove the crumble from the refrigerator. It should now be cold and firm. Crumble it on top in an even layer.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the cake to cool for about 30-40 minutes.
- While it cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and milk to make the icing. It should make a glue-like consistency. If it’s too thick, add ½ tablespoon of milk at a time until it turns smooth.
- Drizzle the icing on top of the slightly warm cake and enjoy!
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