Banana Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping

There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of Banana Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping. Each bite is a delightful combination of moist banana goodness and a crunchy, sweet topping that makes it perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a cozy evening snack. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as it bakes—it’s enough to make anyone feel at home. This recipe is straightforward, using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. So, let’s dive in and create a cake that will soon become a staple in your baking repertoire!

Why It Works Every Time

This Banana Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping is a foolproof recipe that yields consistently delicious results. The combination of ripe bananas and sour cream keeps the cake incredibly moist, while the baking powder and baking soda provide the perfect amount of lift. The addition of vanilla extract enhances the flavor, making each slice irresistible. The streusel topping adds a crunchy texture that beautifully contrasts the soft cake underneath, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

What Goes In

• __ cups granulated sugar
• __ cup (1 stick) butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• __ cups sour cream or plain yogurt
• __ cup mashed banana (about 2 ripe bananas)
• __ cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• __ cup all-purpose flour (for streusel)
• __ cup (1 stick) butter, at room temperature (for streusel)
• __ cup granulated white sugar (for streusel)
• __ cup light brown sugar (for streusel)
• __ teaspoon ground cinnamon (for streusel)
• __ teaspoon ground nutmeg (for streusel)

Kitchen Gear Checklist

• Mixing bowls: For combining ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
• Whisk: For mixing the wet ingredients smoothly.
• Rubber spatula: For folding the batter and incorporating ingredients.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: The perfect size for this coffee cake.
• Oven: Preheated to 350°F (175°C) for baking.

Banana Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping — Do This Next

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and granulated sugar until well combined. Add the eggs, sour cream (or yogurt), and mashed banana. Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and vanilla extract. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 4: Make the Streusel Topping

In another bowl, combine the flour, room temperature butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Use your fingers or a fork to mix until crumbly. The mixture should resemble coarse crumbs.

Step 5: Assemble the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the streusel topping generously over the batter, ensuring it’s evenly distributed.

Step 6: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The edges should be lightly golden.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

• Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
• Pair slices with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon snack.
• Top with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra special treat.
• Enjoy as a breakfast option alongside yogurt for a balanced meal.

Notes from the Test Kitchen

This Banana Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping is best enjoyed fresh, but it can also be stored for later. Make sure to use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and flavor. You can also customize the streusel topping by adding nuts or chocolate chips if desired.

Storage & Reheat Guide

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, simply warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or until heated through. It also tastes great at room temperature!

Banana Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping Q&A

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing and using them in the recipe.

What can I substitute for sour cream?

You can use plain yogurt as a great alternative. It will provide a similar texture and tanginess that sour cream offers.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

Can I add nuts to the streusel topping?

Yes! Chopped walnuts or pecans would make a delicious addition to the streusel topping. Just mix them in with the other ingredients when preparing the streusel.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Coffee Cake with Streusel Topping is a wonderful way to enjoy ripe bananas while indulging in a sweet treat. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, or simply enjoying on your own with a nice cup of coffee. The layers of flavor and texture make it a standout dessert, and I promise that once you try it, you’ll want to bake it again and again. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the baking magic begin!