Name: Banana Coffee Cake
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 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); 3 tablespoons light brown sugar; 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon; 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; 0.5 cup powdered sugar; 1 tablespoon milk

Introduction to Banana Coffee Cake

If you're a fan of banana bread and coffee cake, then this delightful Banana Coffee Cake is a must-try for you. Imagine a perfectly moist banana bread swirled with cinnamon and topped with a crunchy crumble—it's the best of both worlds! This cake is an ideal companion for your morning coffee, making it the perfect treat for brunch or a cozy afternoon snack.

Why Banana Coffee Cake is a Must-Try?

So, what makes this banana coffee cake stand out? First, it’s packed with flavor, thanks to the ripe bananas that lend natural sweetness and moisture. Each bite offers a delightful combination of spices, with that heavenly cinnamon sugar swirl to elevate the taste experience. Plus, the crumble topping adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake underneath.

Beyond its incredible flavor, this recipe is also easy to whip up, making it suitable even for beginner bakers. You can make it in just over an hour, which means you can impress friends and family with minimal effort. Who doesn’t love a dish that looks as good as it tastes? Try adding a drizzle of homemade icing or salted caramel for an extra indulgent touch!

Ready to bake? Let’s dive into the deliciousness of this banana coffee cake! For detailed guidance, head over to the full recipe below!

Ingredients for Banana Coffee Cake

When it comes to crafting the perfect banana coffee cake, having the right ingredients is essential. This cake is not just a treat for your taste buds; it’s also a great way to use those overripe bananas sitting on your kitchen counter!

Essential Ingredients for the Cake

To achieve that moist, delicious texture, gather the following:

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
6 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
A mix of granulated and light brown sugar
⅓ cup sour cream
Mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium)
Key leaveners of baking soda and salt, along with a splash of vanilla extract!

Cinnamon Sugar Mixture

This adds the beloved swirl of flavor:

3 tablespoon light brown sugar
1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon

Crumble Topping Ingredients

For that delectable crunch on top, combine:

1 cup + 2 tablespoon all-purpose flour
A blend of sugars and cinnamon
½ cup melted unsalted butter

Icing Ingredients

Finish it off with a sweet drizzle using:

½ cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon milk

This banana coffee cake is a delightful combination of textures and flavors, making it perfect for brunch or as a sweet indulgence any time of day! If you want other delicious recipes, check out Baking Basics or The Joy of Baking for inspiration.

Preparing Banana Coffee Cake

Creating a banana coffee cake in your own kitchen is not only rewarding but also a delightful experience that fills your home with the wonderful aroma of baking. This recipe combines the moistness of banana bread with the sweet, warm spices of cinnamon coffee cake. Let’s dive into the steps to whip up this delicious treat!

Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). While it heats, grab an 8×8 inch baking pan and grease it generously. For easy removal later, line the bottom with parchment paper, allowing the paper to hang over the edges. This will ensure that your cake comes out beautifully without sticking.

Make the Crumble Topping

While the oven warms, let’s make the crumble topping that will add a delightful texture to your banana coffee cake. In a bowl, combine 1 cup plus 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ⅓ cup of granulated sugar, ⅓ cup of packed light brown sugar, and ½ cup of melted unsalted butter. Mix until it resembles wet sand—don’t worry if it seems a bit crumbly! Place this mixture in the refrigerator while you prepare the rest of the cake, allowing it to firm up.

Combine Dry Ingredients for the Cake

In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, ¾ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This dry mix is crucial for the structure of your cake, providing the balance needed against the moist banana and creamy sour cream.

Mix Wet Ingredients for the Cake

Now, in a large mixing bowl, blend together 6 tablespoons of melted butter, ½ cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of packed light brown sugar. After this, whisk in ⅓ cup of sour cream, 1 room temperature egg, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ¾ cup of mashed ripe bananas (about 2 bananas). The balance of flavors at this step is the secret to that perfect banana cake moisture.

Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Next, gently fold the dry ingredients you set aside into the wet mixture using a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; just combine them until you see no more dry flour. This will keep your banana coffee cake light and fluffy.

Layer the Batter and Cinnamon Sugar

Spread half of the batter into your prepared pan. Then, take your cinnamon-sugar mixture (3 tablespoons of light brown sugar combined with 1 ½ teaspoons of cinnamon) and sprinkle it evenly over the batter. This adds a lovely swirl of flavor.

Add the Crumble Topping

Now, pour the remaining batter over the cinnamon layer, ensuring it is spread evenly. Retrieve your chilled crumble from the refrigerator and sprinkle it generously over the top. This will create a crispy crown for your banana coffee cake that you won’t be able to resist.

Bake the Cake

Pop your cake into the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs attached.

Cool the Cake and Prepare the Icing

Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 30-40 minutes. While it cools, you can whip up a simple icing by mixing ½ cup of powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon of milk. Adjust as necessary for a smooth, glaze-like consistency. Drizzle over the slightly warm cake, and you’re ready to indulge or serve to friends at your next gathering!

By following these steps, you’ll create a deliciously moist banana coffee cake that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert. Enjoy every delightful bite!

Variations on Banana Coffee Cake

Nutty Delight: Adding Nuts

For a delightful crunch, consider adding nuts to your banana coffee cake. Chopped walnuts or pecans complement the soft, moist cake beautifully. Simply fold in about ½ cup of your chosen nuts into the batter before baking. Not only do they add texture, but they also bring a toasty flavor that elevates the cake. For an extra touch, toast the nuts lightly before incorporating them for that rich aroma. If you're unsure about the type of nut to use, check out this Nut & Seed Guide.

Chocolate Lovers: Incorporating Chocolate Chips

If you’re craving a touch of decadence, chocolate chips are your best friend! Folding in ½ cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter makes the banana coffee cake irresistibly rich and satisfying. The melted chocolate pairs perfectly with the banana’s sweetness, creating delightful pockets of gooey goodness throughout the cake. Pair it with a cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon treat! Don’t forget to experiment with different chocolate varieties—milk chocolate or even white chocolate could be amazing alternatives. For more inspiration, visit Chocolate Lovers Unite.

Baking Notes for Banana Coffee Cake

Tips for Baking Perfectly Moist Cake

Achieving a perfectly moist banana coffee cake is all about the right ingredients and techniques. Here’s how to nail it:

Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Aim for bananas with a good amount of brown spots.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and sour cream are at room temperature to create a smooth batter that incorporates more air.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, gently fold them together until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
Check for Doneness: Start checking your cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time. A toothpick should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.

For more baking wisdom, you can explore resources from King Arthur Baking and Bon Appétit. Enjoy your delightful creation!

Serving Suggestions for Banana Coffee Cake

Enjoying with Coffee or Tea

There's nothing quite like savoring a slice of banana coffee cake with your favorite warm beverage. Brew a rich cup of coffee or steep a refreshing tea—both pair beautifully with this delightfully moist cake. The sweetness of the banana and the nutty crumble complement the bitterness of coffee or the herbal notes of tea, creating an invigorating afternoon treat. Whether it’s for your morning routine or a mid-afternoon pick-me-up, this combo is sure to brighten your day.

Pairing with Fresh Fruits

For a light and refreshing accompaniment, consider serving your banana coffee cake with a side of fresh fruits. Berries, like strawberries or blueberries, add a burst of color and flavor, while citrus fruits, such as an orange or grapefruit, can provide a zesty contrast. A fruit salad can elevate your dessert experience, making it feel indulgent yet wholesome. Not only does this combination enhance the flavors, but it also offers added nutrients—perfect for a balanced treat!

For more delicious fruit and cake pairings, check out Eat This, Not That for innovative ideas.

Cooking Tips and Notes for Banana Coffee Cake

Ripe Bananas: Key to Moisture

Using ripe bananas is essential for achieving that deliciously moist texture in your banana coffee cake. Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots; this indicates they’re sweet and full of flavor. If you have greenish bananas, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag for a day or two.

Storing Leftovers Safely

To keep your banana coffee cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw them at room temperature whenever you're ready to indulge! For tips on freezing baked goods, check out this helpful guide from Taste of Home.

Time Breakdown for Banana Coffee Cake

Preparation Time
To kick off your banana coffee cake adventure, set aside about 20 minutes for preparation. This includes gathering your ingredients, mixing the batter, and preparing the crumble. Be sure to preheat your oven while you're at it to save time!

Baking Time
Next, the magic happens in the oven! Bake your cake for approximately 40-45 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.

Cooling Time
Patience is key! Once baked, let your banana coffee cake cool for about 30-40 minutes. This will help the flavors meld and make for an even more delicious experience when you slice into it.

By following this time breakdown, you can enjoy a delightful dessert that seamlessly blends the richness of banana bread with the comforting warmth of coffee cake. If you're curious about similar recipes, check out this banana bread guide for more inspiration!

Nutritional Facts for Banana Coffee Cake

Calories per Slice

A delightful slice of banana coffee cake packs about 230 calories. This makes it a satisfying indulgence for your afternoon coffee break without completely derailing your day!

Carbohydrates and Sugars

Each slice contains roughly 34 grams of carbohydrates, including around 15 grams of sugar. The natural sweetness from mashed bananas and sugars enhances every bite, giving you that cozy, comforting flavor you crave.

For more detailed nutritional information, websites like NutritionData and MyFitnessPal can offer insights tailored to your dietary needs. Enjoy your baking!

FAQs about Banana Coffee Cake

Can I use frozen bananas for the cake?

Absolutely! Using frozen bananas is a great way to add natural sweetness to your banana coffee cake. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing. This will keep your cake from becoming too wet.

How can I make the cake gluten-free?

You can easily modify this recipe for a gluten-free version by swapping out the all-purpose flour for a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Many brands offer excellent blends that mimic regular flour's texture and taste, ensuring your banana coffee cake remains deliciously moist.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can use alternatives such as plain Greek yogurt or even applesauce for a lighter option. Both will add the necessary moisture and tang, making your banana coffee cake just as tender and tasty.

For more tips on baking and ingredient substitutes, check out sources like King Arthur Baking for expert advice. Enjoy your baking adventure!

Conclusion on Banana Coffee Cake

The Joy of Baking and Sharing Banana Coffee Cake

There’s a special joy that comes from baking a banana coffee cake. The warm aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. Sharing this delightful treat enhances its appeal; nothing brings people together quite like a delicious slice of cake. So, whip up this recipe, and enjoy each moment!