Introduction to Banana Coffee Cake
If you’re a young professional navigating the hectic world of work, you know every moment counts, especially when it comes to treating yourself. That’s where this delicious banana coffee cake comes into play. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and convenience—ideal for busy mornings or as a sweet afternoon pick-me-up.
Why Banana Coffee Cake is the Perfect Treat for Young Professionals
Imagine this: you’ve just wrapped up a long day at the office, and all you want is to unwind with something cozy and satisfying. This banana coffee cake fits the bill beautifully. It combines the moistness of classic banana bread with the delightful cinnamon swirl and crunchy crumble of your favorite coffee cake. It’s like having an afternoon coffee break without needing to leave the house!
Not only is this cake simple to make, but it also provides an opportunity to use those overripe bananas you might otherwise toss. Plus, the recipe yields 16 generous slices—perfect for sharing with coworkers or saving for a well-deserved breakfast treat throughout the week.
For an extra touch, consider pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or herbal tea. With each bite, you’ll feel the stresses of the day melt away—now that’s a win-win!
Want to learn how to make this delightful banana coffee cake? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients for Banana Coffee Cake
Essential ingredients for the banana cake
To create the perfect base for your banana coffee cake, you’ll need some essential ingredients that come together to deliver that moist and fluffy texture. Here’s what to gather:
- 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 (room temperature)
- 1 large egg (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ¾ cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
Having ripe bananas is key! The natural sugars will enhance the sweetness and moisture.
Components of the cinnamon sugar swirl
What makes this banana coffee cake stand out is the delightful cinnamon sugar swirl that adds a lovely spice. Here’s what you need:
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 ½ teaspoons cinnamon
Mix these two together to create a fragrant blend that elevates your cake.
Ingredients for the crumble topping
A satisfying crumble topping is a must for any coffee cake! For that irresistible crunch, gather:
- 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
This blend gives your cake a fantastic texture and flavor balance.
Icing for that final touch
Lastly, let’s not forget the icing that adds the perfect finishing touch! You’ll need:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon milk
If you’re feeling adventurous, top it off with some homemade salted caramel for an extra indulgence! For a great recipe, check out this homemade salted caramel. Drizzling this icing over your cake will elevate it from good to truly unforgettable!
Step-by-step Preparation of Banana Coffee Cake
Making a delightful banana coffee cake is not only a treat for the taste buds, but it can also be a fun and rewarding experience in the kitchen. Follow these easy steps to achieve a moist and flavorful cake you'll want to share with friends and family.
Prepping your workspace and ingredients
Start by ensuring your kitchen is tidy and organized. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C) and grease an 8×8 baking pan. It’s helpful to line the pan with parchment paper so that you can easily lift the cake out once it’s baked. Gather all your ingredients to streamline the process and avoid last-minute searches—trust me, it saves time and keeps the baking fun!
Making the crumble mixture
Next, let's tackle the exciting crumble topping that adds delightful texture to your cake. In a medium bowl, combine 1 cup of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and both sugars: ⅓ cup granulated and ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar. Pour in ½ cup melted unsalted butter and mix until the texture resembles wet sand. Put it in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the cake batter—this step helps enhance the crumble's texture during baking.
Preparing the banana cake batter
For the banana coffee cake, we want the batter to be as flavorful as possible. In a separate bowl, whisk 1 ½ cups of all-purpose flour with ¾ teaspoon baking soda and ½ teaspoon salt. In a large mixing bowl, combine 6 tablespoons melted unsalted butter with both sugars until smooth. Add in ⅓ cup of room-temperature sour cream, 1 large egg, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and ¾ cup mashed ripe bananas (about two medium bananas). Mix until fully combined, then gently fold in the dry ingredients until just incorporated.
Layering the cake with cinnamon sugar
Now for the fun part! Spread half of your banana cake batter evenly in the prepared pan. Mix together 3 tablespoons of light brown sugar with 1 ½ teaspoons of cinnamon, then sprinkle this mixture evenly on top of the batter. This irresistible cinnamon sugar layer adds a sweet, aromatic surprise in every bite! Cover it with the remaining batter, smoothing it out gently to create a lovely even layer.
Adding the crumble topping
After chilling the crumble mixture, take it out of the refrigerator. Crumble it evenly over the top of the cake batter, ensuring every corner is covered. This step will give you that irresistible crunch when it's baked.
Baking to perfection
Pop the pan in the preheated oven for about 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs. Careful, it will smell heavenly while baking—try to hold off until it’s fully cooled for that perfect slice!
Preparing the icing while the cake cools
While the cake is cooling for about 30-40 minutes, whisk together ½ cup powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk to create a smooth icing. If it’s too thick, simply add a splash more milk. Drizzle it over the still-warm cake for that beautiful finish!
And voilà! You now have a luscious banana coffee cake perfect for any gathering. What are your favorite ways to enjoy it? Perhaps with a cup of freshly brewed coffee?
Variations of Banana Coffee Cake
Chocolate Chip Banana Coffee Cake
If you're a chocolate lover, try adding chocolate chips to your banana coffee cake. Simply fold in 1 cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips into the batter before layering—this additional richness pairs perfectly with the moist banana base. The melty chocolate provides a delightful contrast to the cinnamon notes, making each bite a sweet indulgence.
Nutty Banana Coffee Cake with Walnuts
For those who enjoy a bit of crunch, incorporating walnuts is a great option. Chop about ½ cup of walnuts and mix them into the batter before adding it to the pan. This not only enhances the texture but also gives a nutty flavor that complements the banana beautifully. Plus, walnuts are packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, making your treat a touch more nutritious.
Feel free to get creative! You can also explore variations like almond extract for a unique twist or swirl in some peanut butter. For more ideas, check out this article on flavor pairings for banana desserts.
Cooking Tips and Notes for Banana Coffee Cake
Best Practices for Ripening Bananas
To achieve the perfect mashed bananas for your banana coffee cake, select firm, greenish bananas and place them in a paper bag. Seal it for 24-48 hours at room temperature. This traps ethylene gas, speeding up ripening. If you're short on time, you can bake unripe bananas at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until their skins darken—this makes them perfectly sweet!
Tips for Achieving a Fluffy Texture
For a light and fluffy texture in your banana coffee cake, ensure that your butter is softened but not melted. Creaming it with the sugars effectively incorporates air, enhancing rise. Additionally, avoid overmixing once you add the dry ingredients; a few lumps are okay! For more baking tips, check out King Arthur Baking.
Serving Suggestions for Banana Coffee Cake
Pairing with coffee and tea
Imagine enjoying a slice of banana coffee cake alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee or a soothing cup of tea. The moistness and subtle sweetness of the cake complement the rich flavors of coffee beautifully. For an afternoon treat, try pairing it with a spicy chai or herbal tea, which can elevate the cake's cinnamon notes, creating a delightful experience.
Creative ways to serve leftovers
If you have leftover cake, consider transforming it into French toast! Simply dip slices in a mixture of eggs and milk and pan-fry until golden. Alternatively, treat yourself to a delectable banana coffee cake parfait by layering crumbled cake with Greek yogurt and fresh fruits, like berries or sliced bananas. These options not only prevent waste but also add a fun twist to this already scrumptious cake!
For more breakfast inspiration, check out this article on quick breakfast ideas.
Time Breakdown for Banana Coffee Cake
Preparation Time
Get your utensils out! The preparation for this delightful banana coffee cake takes about 15 minutes. This includes gathering your ingredients and mixing the batter. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can turn those ripe bananas into a delicious treat!
Baking Time
Now, let’s get baking! The cake needs roughly 40-45 minutes in the oven. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes to ensure the perfect bake. A toothpick test will help you determine when it’s ready—just insert it in the center, and clean, moist crumbs mean it’s good to go!
Cooling Time
After baking, allow your cake to rest and cool for about 30-40 minutes. This step is crucial for letting the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice. Plus, it gives you time to whip up that delicious icing!
Total Time from Start to Finish
All told, you’re looking at a delightful 1 hour and 10 minutes of active cooking plus the 30 minutes of cooling time. In around 2 hours, you’ll have a delectable banana coffee cake ready to impress your friends and family!
Nutritional Facts for Banana Coffee Cake
Calories per slice
Each slice of this delightful banana coffee cake packs approximately 180 calories. Great for a cozy breakfast treat or an afternoon snack, it’s a delightful way to indulge without going overboard.
Sugar content
With a sugar content of about 10 grams per slice, this cake strikes a balance between sweetness and richness. It's a comforting choice for anyone craving a sweet pick-me-up.
Fiber amount
You’ll find around 1 gram of fiber in each slice, thanks to the bananas and flour. While it may not be a fiber powerhouse, pairing it with a piece of fruit or a yogurt can boost your fiber intake deliciously.
For more insights into nutritious baking, check out resources from the USDA Nutrition Center and educational sites like Healthline.
FAQs about Banana Coffee Cake
Can I make banana coffee cake without eggs?
Absolutely! If you're looking to make a delicious banana coffee cake without using eggs, consider substituting each egg with ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce or a mashed banana. This will maintain the moisture and binding properties while keeping the cake delightful.
How do I store leftover banana coffee cake?
To keep your banana coffee cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to extend its shelf life, pop it in the fridge, where it can last for about a week. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before serving for the best taste!
Can I freeze banana coffee cake?
Yes! Freezing your banana coffee cake is a great way to preserve it. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven for that fresh-baked feel!
Feel free to check out our complete guide on baking techniques for even more tips!
Conclusion on Banana Coffee Cake
Embracing homemade treats over fast food not only brings joy to the cooking process, but it also ensures you know exactly what goes into your food. This banana coffee cake is a delightful, healthier option that’s easy to prepare. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting textures that make your kitchen the best café in town!
For more delicious homemade recipes, check out Minimalist Baker or Serious Eats!
Banana Coffee Cake
Equipment
- baking pan
- Mixing Bowls
- whisk
- rubber spatula
Ingredients
Banana Cake
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour 195g
- 0.75 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 0.5 cup granulated sugar 100g
- 0.5 cup light brown sugar, packed 100g
- 0.33 cup sour cream, room temp 80g
- 1 large egg, room temp
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 0.75 cup mashed ripe bananas about 2 medium bananas (190g)
Cinnamon Sugar
- 3 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons cinnamon
Crumble
- 1 cup all-purpose flour plus 2 tablespoons (150g)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 0.33 cup granulated sugar 65g
- 0.33 cup light brown sugar, packed 65g
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted 110g
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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