Introduction to Banana Coffee Cake
If you’re looking for a delightful homemade treat that pairs beautifully with your morning coffee or afternoon tea, look no further than banana coffee cake. This sweet and moist cake, featuring the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, is perfect for indulging in those cozy moments. But it’s not just about taste; the comforting aroma of baking banana coffee cake can fill your home with warmth and nostalgia, reminiscent of childhood baking days.
Why Banana Coffee Cake is the Perfect Homemade Treat?
Banana coffee cake isn't your average dessert—it's a crowd-pleaser that strikes a fantastic balance between sweet and savory. The addition of a crunchy streusel topping adds texture and a burst of flavor, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience. Plus, using overripe bananas not only reduces food waste but also enhances the cake's moisture and natural sweetness, making it an ideal way to use up those browning bananas languishing on your kitchen counter.
Want to elevate your banana coffee cake experience? Consider experimenting with different mix-ins like chocolate chips or a sprinkle of chopped nuts, which can add a personal touch to this versatile recipe. So grab your ingredients and get ready to whip up something special that’s sure to impress family and friends alike! For more inspiring baking tips, check out Food52 for creative ideas and tutorials.
Ingredients for Banana Coffee Cake
When you're ready to whip up a delightful banana coffee cake, knowing your ingredients is essential. Let’s break down what you’ll need to make this flavorful treat.
Essential ingredients for the streusel
The streusel topping is what makes this cake extra special. Here's what you'll need:
- Unsalted butter: 5 tablespoons, melted until bubbly
- Walnut pieces: ½ cup, coarsely chopped for a delightful crunch
- All-purpose flour: ½ cup to bind everything together
- Light brown sugar: ¼ cup, packed for warmth and depth
- Granulated sugar: ¼ cup to balance the flavors
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon to infuse warmth
- Nutmeg: ¼ teaspoon, freshly grated or ground, for extra warmth
- Kosher salt: ¼ teaspoon to enhance sweetness
Key components for the banana cake
Now, let’s focus on the main star—the banana cake itself. Here’s what you'll need:
- Very ripe bananas: 2 medium, mashed for natural sweetness
- Large egg: 1 to bring it all together
- Light brown sugar: ½ cup packed
- Granulated sugar: ½ cup for that perfect sweetness
- Vegetable oil: ½ cup, adding moisture
- Whole or 2% milk: ½ cup for a tender crumb
- Vanilla extract: 2 teaspoons for warm, comforting flavor
- Kosher salt: ¼ teaspoon to balance sweetness
- Baking powder: 2 teaspoons for the perfect rise
- All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups as the base of your batter
With these ingredients in hand, you're well on your way to baking a delightful banana coffee cake! For more baking ideas, check out King Arthur Baking for tips and techniques. Happy baking!
Step-by-step preparation of Banana Coffee Cake
Making a delicious banana coffee cake is a rewarding, fulfilling experience. Whether you’re preparing for a cozy brunch or a casual gathering with friends, these steps will guide you to a delightful end result. Let's dive in!
Create the streusel topping
The streusel topping is what sets this banana coffee cake apart, providing a wonderful crunch and added flavor. Start by melting 5 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl—in 15-second bursts until fully melted, which should take about 45 seconds. If you prefer the stovetop, a small saucepan over medium-low heat works just as well.
Once the butter has melted, coarsely chop ½ cup of walnut pieces and halves, and add them to the bowl along with:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated or ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Mix these ingredients with a fork until they are evenly moistened and look like a coarse crumb mixture. Don’t skip refrigerating this mix for at least 10 minutes while you prepare the cake batter; a chilled streusel yields a crunchier topping!
Prepare the baking pan
Next, you’ll want your baking pan ready. Preheat your oven to 350°F and position a rack in the middle. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with two overlapping sheets of parchment paper, ensuring it hangs off all four sides. This "sling" allows for easy removal after baking—no more struggling to get your cake out!
Mash the bananas and combine wet ingredients
For the cake itself, take 2 very ripe medium bananas and mash them until smooth in a large bowl—aim for about ¾ cup of mashed banana. Add in:
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup whole or 2% milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
Whisk everything together until it’s well combined. The ripe bananas not only add sweetness but also contribute to the cake's moisture.
Mix in the dry ingredients
Now let’s incorporate the dry components. Sprinkle in 2 teaspoons of baking powder and add 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour. Stir gently with a rubber spatula until the mixture is mixed but don’t overdo it; you still want some lumps.
Once combined, transfer the batter to the prepared baking pan and crumble the cooled streusel evenly on top.
Bake and cool the banana coffee cake
Pop your banana coffee cake into the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is beautifully browned, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once out of the oven, let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Using the parchment, lift the cake out and place it on a wire rack to cool completely—resist the urge to slice it too soon!
Enjoy your freshly baked banana coffee cake, perfect with a steaming cup of coffee or tea!
For expert tips on baking cakes, consider checking out resources from the American Bakers Association or King Arthur Baking. They offer fantastic insights on various baking techniques that can enhance your skills!
Variations on Banana Coffee Cake
Adding nuts or chocolate chips
For a delightful twist on your banana coffee cake, consider adding some texture and flavor with nuts or chocolate chips. Chopped walnuts or pecans can add a lovely crunch and earthy flavor, perfectly complementing the sweetness of ripe bananas. If you’re a chocolate lover, a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips will elevate your cake to a new level of indulgence. Simply fold them in after mixing your batter for an extra layer of deliciousness!
Creating a vegan version
Want to enjoy this banana coffee cake while sticking to a vegan lifestyle? It's easier than you think! Substitute the egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce, which acts as a fantastic binder. For the milk, try almond or oat milk, and you can use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a subtle flavor boost. These simple swaps will keep your cake just as moist and flavorful without any animal products. Curious about more vegan baking tips? Check out This Article on Vegan Substitutions.
Cooking tips and notes for Banana Coffee Cake
Tips for the perfect banana texture
To achieve that delightful, moist texture in your banana coffee cake, opt for very ripe bananas—those with plenty of brown spots. The more overripe they are, the sweeter and softer they’ll be, leading to a rich banana flavor. Don’t be afraid to mash them until smooth; this helps distribute the banana evenly throughout the batter, giving every bite that luscious texture.
How to achieve a crunchy streusel topping
For a crunchy streusel topping, make sure your butter is cold when mixing it with the dry ingredients. This will create those nice, crumbly bits that bake up beautifully. Also, refrigerating the streusel for a few minutes before baking helps solidify the butter, resulting in a perfect crispy finish. For a bit of extra flavor, consider adding some oats or coconut to your streusel mix!
Serving suggestions for Banana Coffee Cake
Pairing with coffee or tea
There’s nothing quite like enjoying a slice of banana coffee cake with your morning brew or afternoon tea. The subtle sweetness of the cake complements the rich flavors of coffee beautifully, whether you prefer a robust espresso or a smooth latte. For tea lovers, consider pairing it with a warm chai or a soothing herbal blend. The delightful combination makes for a cozy break during your busy day.
Serving with a side of fresh fruit
To elevate your banana coffee cake experience, serve it alongside a vibrant medley of fresh fruit. Slices of juicy strawberries, refreshing oranges, or tangy blueberries can add a burst of color and flavor. Plus, the natural sweetness of the fruit balances out the cake’s richness and adds a nutritional boost. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a personal brunch or impress guests at your next gathering!
Time Breakdown for Banana Coffee Cake
Preparation Time
The preparation time for this delicious banana coffee cake is about 25 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients, mashing the ripe bananas, and making the delightful streusel topping.
Baking Time
Once everything is mixed and ready to go, you'll bake your cake for 50 to 55 minutes. During this time, the wonderful aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to resist peeking in!
Total Time
Altogether, you’re looking at a total time of approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes, including baking and a bit of cooling time. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat!
Nutritional Facts for Banana Coffee Cake
Calories
Each slice of this delightful banana coffee cake contains about 250 calories, making it a satisfying treat that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Protein
You can expect to find around 3 grams of protein per piece. While it's not a significant source, it contributes to a balanced snack that keeps you energized!
Sugar Content
With approximately 16 grams of sugar per slice, this cake boasts just the right amount of sweetness. It’s enough to satisfy your sweet tooth without going overboard—enjoy it guilt-free!
If you're looking for a delightful way to indulge in dessert that complements your busy lifestyle, consider exploring more about the nutritional benefits of ingredients like bananas and whole grains from sources like the USDA and Healthline.
FAQs about Banana Coffee Cake
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using frozen bananas is a fantastic option for your banana coffee cake. Just be sure to thaw them first — this will make them easier to mash. As a bonus, the extra moisture from thawed bananas can lead to an even more deliciously moist cake. Don’t forget to drain any excess liquid that might collect after thawing!
How do I store banana coffee cake?
To keep your banana coffee cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you plan to keep it longer than a few days, you can also refrigerate it. Just remember that refrigeration may slightly affect the texture. For extended storage, consider freezing individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll be perfect for a quick treat later!
What can I substitute for the nuts?
If you’d prefer to skip the nuts in your banana coffee cake, there are plenty of delicious alternatives! You can use chocolate chips for a sweet twist or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a chewy texture. For those with nut allergies, seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds can also add a nice crunch without the nuts. Enjoy experimenting!
Conclusion on Banana Coffee Cake
Embracing homemade goodness!
Making your own banana coffee cake is a delightful way to indulge in a sweet treat while savoring the rewards of homemade goodness. The warm, fragrant aroma that fills your kitchen and the joy of sharing it with friends or enjoying it solo make this cake truly special. So, roll up your sleeves and start baking today! If you're looking for more inspiration, check out this article on baking techniques for some helpful tips!
Banana Coffee Cake
Equipment
- microwave safe bowl
- small saucepan
- rubber spatula
- 8-inch square baking pan
- wire rack
Ingredients
For the streusel
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ cup walnut pieces and halves
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ¼ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon freshly grated or ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
For the cake
- 2 very ripe medium bananas
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- ½ cup whole or 2% milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon kosher salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
Instructions
Make the streusel
- Place 5 tablespoons unsalted butter in a medium microwave-safe bowl and microwave in 15-second bursts until melted, about 45 seconds total.
- Coarsely chop ½ cup walnut pieces and halves. Add the walnuts, ½ cup all-purpose flour, ¼ cup packed light brown sugar, ¼ cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon freshly grated or ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt to the butter. Stir with a fork until evenly moistened and a variety of crumb sizes form.
- Refrigerate for at least 10 minutes while you make the cake batter.
Make the cake
- Arrange a rack in the middle of the oven and heat the oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking pan with two overlapping sheets of parchment paper so that it hangs off all four sides and forms a sling.
- Mash 2 very ripe medium bananas in a large bowl with a fork or potato masher until smooth (about ¾ cup). Add 1 large egg, ½ cup packed light brown sugar, ½ cup granulated sugar, ½ cup vegetable oil, ½ cup whole or 2% milk, 2 teaspoons vanilla extract, and ¼ teaspoon kosher salt. Whisk until combined.
- Sprinkle evenly with 2 teaspoons baking powder. Add 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour and stir with a rubber spatula until just incorporated but no dry spots remain. Transfer the batter to the baking pan. Crumble the streusel evenly over the top.
- Bake until the cake is browned and a tester inserted into the center comes out clean, 50 to 55 minutes. Place the pan on a wire rack and let cool for 15 minutes. Lift the cake out of the baking dish and place on the rack. Let cool for at least 1 hour more.
- Transfer to a cutting board and cut into 12 pieces.
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