As I savored a warm slice of Banana Coffee Cake this morning, I couldn't help but smile at how the rich aroma of coffee mingled seamlessly with the sweetness of ripe bananas. This delightful treat has quickly become my go-to comfort food, perfect for both breakfast and dessert. Not only is this Banana Coffee Cake incredibly simple to whip up, but it also transforms ordinary pantry staples into a crowd-pleasing delight that will impress everyone at your table. With its cozy crumb topping and the bonus of using leftover coffee, this recipe is a clever way to reduce waste while indulging in something truly special. Curious about how this cake can brighten your day? Let’s dive into the delicious details!
Why is Banana Coffee Cake so special?
Crave-worthy aroma: The delightful scent of coffee and bananas wafting through your kitchen is simply irresistible.
Moist & fluffy texture: Thanks to ripe bananas and the crumb topping, each bite melts in your mouth, making it the perfect treat for any time of day.
Quick & easy: With just 20 minutes of prep time, you can have this delicious cake ready to bake, leaving more time for enjoyment!
Versatile serving options: Enjoy it warm for breakfast, or serve it at room temperature as a sweet snack paired with your favorite hot beverage.
Waste not, want not: This clever use of leftover coffee transforms pantry staples into a memorable dessert. If you enjoy recycling ingredients, don’t miss my Banana Muffins recipe.
Crowd pleaser: Whether it’s a brunch gathering or a cozy family night, this Banana Coffee Cake will leave everyone asking for your secret!
Banana Coffee Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• Ripe bananas – Use 3 for a sweet, moist cake that infuses natural flavor.
• Granulated sugar – 1 cup helps balance the bananas' sweetness and enhances browning.
• Unsalted butter – ½ cup, softened, creates a tender crumb in the cake.
• Large eggs – 2 provide structure and richness to the batter.
• Brewed coffee – 1 cup, cooled; this gives the cake a deliciously rich flavor and is key to the Banana Coffee Cake experience!
• Vanilla extract – 1 teaspoon adds warmth and depth to the overall taste.
• All-purpose flour – 2 cups ensure a well-structured cake that’s not too dense.
• Baking soda – 1 teaspoon helps the cake rise and achieve a lovely texture.
• Salt – ½ teaspoon enhances flavor and balances the ingredients.
• Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon infuses warmth and a comforting aroma.
For the Crumb Topping
• All-purpose flour – ½ cup creates the base texture of the crumb topping.
• Brown sugar – ½ cup, packed, adds a touch of moisture and a deep, caramel flavor.
• Unsalted butter – ¼ cup, melted, binds the topping while keeping it decadent and crumbly.
• Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon for a lovely spiced finish that complements the cake perfectly.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Coffee Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, take a moment to grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan. This will ensure your Banana Coffee Cake releases easily after baking, giving it a beautifully clean finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Crumb Topping
In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix these ingredients together until the mixture is crumbly and resembles coarse sand. Set this bowl aside, allowing the flavors to meld while you prepare the cake batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until the mixture is light and fluffy, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes. Next, incorporate the mashed ripe bananas, mixing until well combined for that sweet, moist essence of your Banana Coffee Cake.
Step 4: Add Eggs
To the banana mixture, add 2 large eggs one at a time. Beat well after each addition, ensuring the eggs are fully incorporated into the batter. This step is crucial for creating a rich and cohesive texture in your cake. Once all the eggs are mixed in, your batter should have a nice, smooth consistency.
Step 5: Mix in Coffee and Vanilla
Next, slowly stir in 1 cup of cooled brewed coffee and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the banana mixture. Mix just until combined, letting the rich flavors blend without overmixing. This coffee will enhance the taste of your Banana Coffee Cake, bringing out the sweetness of the bananas in a delightful way!
Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This mixture ensures that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed. Gradually add these dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring softly until just combined. Be careful to avoid overmixing, which can make the cake dense.
Step 7: Pour the Batter
Pour the beautiful, thick batter into your prepared baking pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly across the pan. The batter should have a smooth surface for an even bake. This step is where your Banana Coffee Cake starts to come to life, so make sure it’s well distributed for that perfect rise.
Step 8: Add the Crumb Topping
Take your prepared crumb topping and generously sprinkle it over the cake batter, ensuring an even layer for a delightful crunch. This topping will add an inviting texture and sweet spice to your Banana Coffee Cake, making it an irresistible treat everyone will love.
Step 9: Bake the Cake
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Keep an eye on it, and check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp, promising a delightful flavor profile.
Step 10: Cool and Serve
Once baked, carefully remove your Banana Coffee Cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes. Afterward, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period allows the flavors to set, making your cake even more enjoyable when served.
What to Serve with Banana Coffee Cake
Indulging in a slice of banana coffee cake is a delight, but pairing it with the right accompaniments elevates the cozy experience.
- Fresh Berries: The bright, juicy flavors of strawberries or blueberries complement the cake’s sweetness, adding a refreshing contrast.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a luscious, creamy element that beautifully balances the textures of your cake.
- Greek Yogurt: Creamy Greek yogurt drizzled with honey brings a tangy twist, creating a wholesome, satisfying breakfast or snack option.
- Hot Brewed Coffee: Sipping on a cup of coffee enhances the cake's flavor, making every bite feel like a warm hug in the morning.
- Ice Cream: Serving a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side turns your dessert into an indulgent treat that is simply irresistible.
- Spiced Tea: A warm cup of chai or spiced tea complements the cinnamon notes in the cake and adds cozy warmth to your dining experience.
- Chocolate Drizzle: For those with a sweet tooth, a drizzle of warm chocolate ganache on top can create an unforgettable flavor explosion.
- Chopped Nuts: Toasted walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the soft texture of the cake.
- Zesty Citrus Salad: A light citrus salad with oranges and grapefruits provides a bright and zesty counterpoint to the rich, sweet cake.
Expert Tips for Banana Coffee Cake
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Use Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture; they should be speckled brown for best flavor.
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Don’t Overmix: When combining the dry and wet ingredients, mix just until moistened to achieve a light and fluffy texture in your Banana Coffee Cake.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature to create a smooth batter that combines easily and bakes evenly.
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Check for Doneness: Always use a toothpick to test if the cake is finished baking; it should come out clean to avoid a gooey center.
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Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before transferring to a wire rack; this helps preserve the texture and makes slicing easier.
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Customize Topping: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips to the crumb topping for a delightful twist on this classic Banana Coffee Cake!
Banana Coffee Cake Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize this delicious Banana Coffee Cake to suit your taste!
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Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a cake that's just as delightful without the gluten.
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter substitute to keep the moist texture while enjoying a plant-based version.
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Nutty Twist: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs wonderfully with banana.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a deliciously decadent touch that cocoa enthusiasts will adore. Each bite will be a heavenly experience!
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Spiced Banana Coffee Cake: Mix in ½ teaspoon of nutmeg in addition to the cinnamon for an extra warm and spicy kick that will make your taste buds dance.
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Caramel Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top for a luxurious finishing touch that adds both sweetness and elegance.
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Fruity Variations: Add ½ cup of fresh blueberries or shredded coconut to the batter for a fruity twist that elevates the classic flavor to new heights.
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Caffeinated Kick: Substitute ½ cup of brewed coffee with espresso for a richer, bolder coffee flavor that energizes your cake, enhancing its irresistible nature!
Embrace these variations and tailor your banana coffee cake to your liking! And if you're feeling adventurous, you might want to check out my Fruity Oatmeal Cookies recipe for another delightful twist on traditional flavors.
Make Ahead Options
These Banana Coffee Cakes are a lifesaver for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, and refrigerate them until you're ready to bake. The crumb topping can also be made ahead and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. When you're ready to serve, combine the batter and crumb topping, then bake as directed. The flavors will meld beautifully, so your Banana Coffee Cake remains just as delicious as if made fresh! This approach offers a delightful homemade experience with minimal effort when it's time to enjoy!
How to Store and Freeze Banana Coffee Cake
Room Temperature: Store your Banana Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture.
Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, the cake can be refrigerated for up to a week. Ensure it’s wrapped properly to prevent drying.
Freezer: For extended storage, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil then freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy frozen Banana Coffee Cake, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheating individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds is a delightful option.
Banana Coffee Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of bananas should I use?
Absolutely! Use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. They’ll be sweeter and more flavorful, adding delicious moisture to your Banana Coffee Cake.
How should I store leftover Banana Coffee Cake?
Store your Banana Coffee Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its lovely texture. If you’d like to keep it longer, wrap it well and refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze Banana Coffee Cake?
Very! To freeze your Banana Coffee Cake, wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. Place it in the freezer where it can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm treat!
What if my cake turns out dense?
Don't worry! If your Banana Coffee Cake ends up dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. To prevent this, mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients gently and just until combined for that perfect light and fluffy texture.
Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
Of course! If you have specific dietary considerations, consider substituting ingredients. For a dairy-free version, use plant-based butter and swap eggs for flax seeds or a commercial egg replacer. Always ensure your additional ingredients do not introduce allergens.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to this recipe?
The more the merrier! Feel free to add walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter or sprinkle on top of the crumb topping for extra texture and flavor. Just be mindful of dietary restrictions for your guests!
Deliciously Moist Banana Coffee Cake for Your Cozy Mornings
Equipment
- 9x13-inch baking pan
- mixing bowls
- Hand mixer
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 units Ripe bananas
- 1 cup Granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup Unsalted butter softened
- 2 units Large eggs
- 1 cup Brewed coffee cooled
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
- 2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
For the Crumb Topping
- 0.5 cup All-purpose flour
- 0.5 cup Brown sugar packed
- 0.25 cup Unsalted butter melted
- 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, combine ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of packed brown sugar, ¼ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix until crumbly and set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3-4 minutes). Incorporate the mashed ripe bananas.
- Add 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in 1 cup of cooled brewed coffee and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Gradually add to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter evenly.
- Bake for 40 to 45 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 15-20 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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