Decadent Banana Crumb Coffee Cake: A Cozy Family Favorite
It’s one of those rainy afternoons when the sky is painted in shades of grey, and the sound of gentle droplets tapping against the window fills my kitchen with a soft rhythm. The aroma of ripe bananas is wafting through the air, teasing my senses with memories of childhood baking sessions alongside family. There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm slice of banana crumb coffee cake, especially when topped with a crumbly, buttery topping that melts in your mouth. This is not just any coffee cake; it’s a delightful embrace, a hug from the oven that invites you to slow down, pour a cup of coffee (or tea!), and savor the sweet moments of life, however chaotic they may seem.
This banana crumb coffee cake is your perfect companion for those moments. It offers deliciously moist layers filled with the sweetness of bananas, complemented by a crunchy cinnamon topping that brings a delightful contrast. The best part? This simple dessert can be whipped up with everyday ingredients you likely already have in your pantry, making it a go-to recipe for busy families or anyone looking to indulge without stress. Let’s dive into the details of how to create this cozy treat!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This banana crumb coffee cake is not only easy to make, but it’s also the kind of dessert that gets better with each bite. The tender crumb, combined with a sweet, crunchy topping, creates a delightful texture that’s simply irresistible. Plus, bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, so don’t be surprised if everyone keeps coming back for more!
Everyone will love this cake, whether as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even a comforting dessert. It’s versatile, family-friendly, and beautifully aromatic, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Imagine the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as they gather around the table, each piece melting in their mouths, warm and inviting. It’s a recipe that flows easily into any part of your day — a true kitchen classic!
Ingredients for Banana Crumb Coffee Cake
To bake this delicious banana crumb coffee cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- For the crumb topping:
- 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
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- For the cake:
- 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 extract
- 1 cup almond milk (you can also use 1%, 2%, whole milk, or even buttermilk)
- For the optional glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons almond milk
Ingredient Notes
- Butter: You can use any dairy-free butter alternative to keep this cake vegan. If you prefer, regular butter works just as well.
- Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better! They should have brown spots for maximum sweetness.
- Milk Alternatives: Feel free to customize the milk based on your dietary needs. This recipe works well with various types of milk, including non-dairy options like almond or oat milk.
How to Make It
Creating this delightful coffee cake is a straightforward process that invites you into the cozy warmth of baking. Follow along, and soon, your kitchen will be filled with comforting scents!
Step 1 – Make the Crumb Topping
In a large bowl, combine the cold butter cubes with 1 cup of all-purpose flour, light brown sugar, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Using your hands or two forks, work the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Set this crumbly delight aside; it will crown your cake with the perfect sweet crunch!
Step 2 – Prepare the Cake Batter
In another large bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside and grab your stand mixer.
In the stand mixer, beat the softened butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes until creamy and fluffy. Add in the granulated sugar and mix for another minute until well combined. Next, crack in the eggs, add the vanilla extract, and the mashed bananas. Mix just until everything is blended (overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and fluffy!).
Now, it’s time to alternate adding the flour mixture and almond milk to the butter mixture. Start with a scoop of the flour mixture, followed by a splash of milk, and continue until all dry and wet ingredients are combined.
Step 3 – Assemble and Bake
Pour half of the cake batter into your greased 9″ x 13″ baking dish. Sprinkle about ⅓ to ¼ of the crumb mixture over this layer. Add the remaining cake batter on top, smoothing it out gently with a spatula. Finally, sprinkle the remaining crumb topping over the entire surface for that delightful crunch.
Pop it into your preheated oven at 350ºF and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until you can poke a toothpick through the center and it comes out clean. The smell of baking banana cake will soon take over your kitchen, wrapping you in pure comfort.
Allow to Cool
Once the cake is finished baking, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before preparing the optional glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of almond milk, adjusting the amount of milk as needed to reach your desired glaze consistency. Drizzle it over your warm cake, slice, and serve!
Tips for Success
- Ingredient Temperature: Ensure that your butter is softened (not melted) to create a light and fluffy cake. Cold butter can hinder the aeration process!
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can make the cake dense. Just mix until incorporated for a fluffier texture.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The darker the banana peels, the sweeter and more flavorful they will be in your cake.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens vary, so keep an eye on your cake in the last 10 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.
Recipe Variations
- Nuts & Chocolate: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
- Fruit Variation: Swap out the bananas for applesauce or finely chopped apples for a delightful twist.
- Spice it Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or a dash of cardamom to enhance the flavor profile of this cozy cake.
- Coconut Flakes: Fold in some toasted coconut flakes for a tropical touch that pairs beautifully with banana.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute with a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free while retaining its deliciousness.
Serving Ideas
Banana crumb coffee cake is beautiful on its own, but you can make it even more special. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a cozy dessert. Pair it with a steaming cup of coffee, spiced chai, or even a nice cup of herbal tea, and create an inviting afternoon tea experience. It also makes a wonderful breakfast option when paired with fresh fruit or yogurt!
Storage and Freezing
This coffee cake keeps well for several days stored in an airtight container at room temperature. If you want to save some for a later date, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store them in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, just pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds or let it thaw overnight in the fridge. The cake will retain its moist texture and flavors perfectly!
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| Calories | Protein | Carbs | Fat | Fiber | Sodium | |———-|———|——-|—–|——-|——–| | 280 | 3g | 40g | 12g | 1g | 200mg |
FAQ About Banana Crumb Coffee Cake
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This coffee cake actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can bake it a day ahead of your event and simply reheat slices before serving.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, frozen bananas work great for this recipe! Just be sure to thaw and drain off any excess moisture before mashing them.
What can I substitute for eggs?
If you’re looking to make this cake vegan or egg-free, consider using ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water).
How can I know if my cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, it’s done! If it’s wet with batter, let it bake for a few more minutes.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can easily double the ingredients and bake in a larger 9″ x 13″ pan or two separate pans. Just ensure to adjust the baking time if necessary and check for doneness.
In a Few Words
Baking this banana crumb coffee cake is not just about satisfying a sweet tooth; it’s about bringing warmth and joy into your kitchen. It’s about creating memories, bonding with family, and nurturing everyone with love and delicious food. Each crumb speaks of comfort and care, reminding us to cherish the little moments, even in our bustling lives.
Conclusion
So, gather your ingredients, warm up that oven, and prepare for a joyful baking experience that fills your home with delightful scents and your hearts with happiness. This banana crumb coffee cake is the embodiment of cozy comfort, making it an ideal addition to any occasion. Whether you share it with loved ones or enjoy it solo with a cup of coffee, every bite is a reminder of the sweetness of life. Happy baking!
Print
