Banana Crumb Coffee Cake

Banana Crumb Coffee Cake

Banana Crumb Coffee Cake is a delightful and warm treat that perfectly combines the flavors of ripe bananas with a sweet crumb topping. This cake is ideal for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Its moist texture and rich flavor make it a favorite among family and friends.

Why Make This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for several reasons. First, it’s a great way to use up ripe bananas that may be sitting on your counter. Second, the crumb topping adds a delicious crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft cake. Finally, it’s easy to make and requires common ingredients you might already have in your pantry.

How to Make Banana Crumb Coffee Cake

Ingredients:

• ½ cup cold unsalted butter (8 tablespoons), cut into small cubes (I use vegan butter to keep this dairy-free)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour (gradually add more by the tablespoon if needed)
• 1 cup packed light brown sugar
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 3 ripe bananas, peeled and mashed
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature (again, use vegan butter for a dairy-free option)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 1 cup almond milk (you can also use 1%, 2%, whole milk, or even buttermilk)
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 1-2 tablespoons almond milk

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350º F. Grease a 9" x 13" baking dish with butter or cooking spray and set it aside.
2. In a large bowl, crumble together the cold butter cubes, flour, sugars, and cinnamon using your hands or two forks until the mixture resembles a crumbly topping. Set this crumb mixture aside.
3. In another large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.
4. In a stand mixer, mix softened butter on medium speed until creamy, about 2 minutes. Add the sugar and mix for another minute until well combined. Then add the eggs, vanilla, and mashed bananas, mixing just until incorporated (do not overmix!).
5. Turn the mixer down to low and alternate adding the milk and flour until all ingredients are combined.
6. Pour half of the cake mixture into the prepared baking dish. Top it with 1/3 to 1/4 of the crumb mixture. Pour the rest of the cake mixture on top and finally top evenly with the remaining crumb topping.
7. Bake in the preheated oven at 350º for 50-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
8. To make the optional glaze, whisk together the powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of almond milk. Add more milk as needed until you reach the desired glaze consistency. Set aside.
9. Cool the cake at room temperature for 5-10 minutes before drizzling the glaze over the top. Then slice and serve!

How to Serve Banana Crumb Coffee Cake

Serve your Banana Crumb Coffee Cake warm or at room temperature. It is delicious on its own or enjoyed with a cup of coffee or tea. Adding a bit of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the treat even more!

How to Store Banana Crumb Coffee Cake

Store leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to a week. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is an option as well—just wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Tips to Make Banana Crumb Coffee Cake

• Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
• Avoid overmixing the batter to ensure a fluffy cake.
• For added flavor, consider adding nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
• Check the cake a few minutes before the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.

Variation

You can try adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for some crunch, or swap in other spices like nutmeg for a different flavor twist. For a chocolate version, incorporate cocoa powder into the cake batter.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just thaw them first and mash them before adding to the mixture.

2. Can I make this recipe without eggs?

Absolutely! You can replace each egg with a flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan version.

3. How do I know when the cake is done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake—if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. If it has wet batter on it, give it a few more minutes in the oven.

Enjoy your baking, and savor every bite of this delicious Banana Crumb Coffee Cake!