This Easy Banana Crumb Coffee Cake is super moist and full of ripe bananas. The crunchy streusel on top makes every bite exciting and delicious!
Honestly, the smell of this baking is half the fun! I love enjoying a slice with my morning coffee—it’s the perfect way to start the day with a smile!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bananas: Ripe bananas are key here. The more speckles, the sweeter! If you have overripe bananas, that’s perfect. No bananas? You can use unsweetened applesauce as a substitute, about a cup should do.
Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; however, you can use coconut oil or vegetable oil in equal amounts if you want a dairy-free option. Just note that it may slightly change the flavor.
Sour Cream: This adds moisture and tang. If you’re out, plain yogurt can work just as well. You can also use a non-dairy yogurt to keep it vegan.
Flour: All-purpose flour is standard, but whole wheat flour can be a healthier choice. You can also use a gluten-free blend if needed; just ensure it includes xanthan gum for structure.
How Do I Make the Streusel Topping Extra Crunchy?
The streusel adds a delightful crunch and is easy to make. Ensure your butter is cold, as this helps create that perfect crumble. Here’s a quick guide:
- Mix together flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Add the cold butter in cubes. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- If you want an extra crunch, add chopped walnuts or pecans. They add flavor and texture too!
When sprinkling it on the batter, don’t worry about covering every inch. Some parts without streusel will still be delicious!
Easy Banana Crumb Coffee Cake With Streusel Topping
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Banana Coffee Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ⅓ cup packed light brown sugar
- ¼ cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful coffee cake takes about 15 minutes to prepare, and then it will bake for 40-45 minutes. After baking, let it cool for about 15 minutes before slicing. In total, you’ll be looking at around 1 hour and 15 minutes before you can enjoy it—so worth the wait!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch or 9-inch square baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal of the cake once it’s baked.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Once mixed, set the bowl aside for later.
3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is important for creating a soft cake!
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Now, add the eggs to the butter-sugar mixture, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Don’t forget to stir in the vanilla extract for that lovely flavor boost.
5. Incorporate Bananas and Sour Cream:
Mix in the mashed ripe bananas and sour cream (or yogurt) until everything is combined nicely.
6. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients from the first bowl into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—be careful not to overmix! A few lumps are perfectly fine.
7. Prepare to Bake:
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and use a spatula to smooth out the top so it’s nice and even.
8. Make the Streusel Topping:
To create the yummy streusel, mix together ½ cup of flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Add the cold, cubed butter and mix with a pastry cutter or your fingers until the mixture resembles crumbly bits. If you like, stir in the chopped nuts too!
9. Add the Topping:
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the banana batter—don’t worry about getting it perfect; it will bake beautifully!
10. Bake:
Pop the pan in the oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
11. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the cake out of the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
12. Enjoy:
Slice up your delicious banana crumb coffee cake, and enjoy it warm or at room temperature with a lovely cup of coffee or tea. Yum!
This moist banana coffee cake with a crunchy cinnamon streusel makes for a perfect breakfast treat or a delightful snack! Enjoy every slice!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead of All-Purpose Flour?
Absolutely! Whole wheat flour will lend a nutty flavor and is a healthier option. However, it may make the cake a bit denser. If using whole wheat flour, consider adding a tablespoon of extra liquid to the batter.
How Should I Store Leftover Coffee Cake?
Store any leftover coffee cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it for up to a week or freeze slices for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them tightly!
Can I Substitute the Bananas with Applesauce?
Yes, you can substitute mashed bananas with unsweetened applesauce. Use a 1-for-1 ratio, but keep in mind the flavor profile will change slightly. It will still be delicious and moist!
How Do I Know When the Cake is Done Baking?
The best way to tell if your coffee cake is done is by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready! If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
