Banana Coffee Cake takes the classic coffee cake to new heights by adding sweet, ripe bananas and a generous chocolate-walnut streusel topping. I first made this recipe when looking for something different to do with browning bananas, and it quickly became a family favorite. The mix of soft cake and crunchy topping creates a perfect balance of textures.
About the Recipe
This recipe combines two breakfast favorites – banana bread and coffee cake. The cake itself is tender and moist thanks to the bananas and buttermilk, while the chocolate-walnut topping adds crunch and richness. It’s simple enough for beginners but impressive enough for special occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love how forgiving this recipe is – even if you’re new to baking. The batter comes together quickly, and the layered topping method creates beautiful results every time. The smell of cinnamon and bananas baking will fill your kitchen with warmth. Plus, it’s a great way to use overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
Banana Coffee Cake
Cooking Tips
– Use very ripe bananas – they should be brown and soft
– Bring butter and eggs to room temperature before starting
– Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour
– Check the cake at 30 minutes to avoid overbaking
– Let cool for at least 15 minutes before slicing
Serving and Storing Suggestions
Serves 12. Total prep time: 15 minutes. Baking time: 30-40 minutes.
Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Warm slightly before serving. Great with coffee or milk.
Similar Recipes
- Classic Banana Bread
- Cinnamon Streusel Coffee Cake
- Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins
Nutrient Benefits
Bananas provide potassium and fiber. Walnuts add healthy omega-3 fats and protein. The buttermilk offers calcium and protein, while cinnamon has antioxidant properties. This cake can be part of a balanced breakfast or snack.
Banana Coffee Cake
Ingredients
- 2 Eggs
- 1 cup Butter (softened)
- 1 1/2 cups Sugar
- 5 to 6 tbsp Buttermilk
- 2 1/2 to 3 cups Ripe Bananas (mashed)
- 3 cups Plain Flour
- 1 1/2 tsp Baking Powder
- 1 1/2 tsp Baking Soda
- 1 tsp Salt
For the topping:
- 2 cups Choco Chips
- 1 cup Brown Sugar (+ 1/4 cup)
- 1 cup Walnuts (or Almonds, chopped)
- 2 tbsp Cinnamon
Instructions
- Mix the butter and sugar in a bowl.
- Beat until creamy.
- Add the buttermilk, bananas and egg. Mix well.
- Combine the flour, baking soda, baking powder and salt in an another bowl.
- Add the flour mixture to the banana mixture and stir well until evenly blended.
- Mix together the topping ingredients in a bowl.
- Spread half of the cake mixture into a greased 8" baking pan.
- Sprinkle some of the toppings and spoon over the remaining cake mixture.
- Spread it evenly and sprinkle the remaining toppings.
- Place the pan into a preheated oven at 350F/175C.
- Bake for 30 to 40 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove and cool.
- Cut into slices and serve.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Mix regular milk with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice or vinegar per cup, let stand 5 minutes to make a buttermilk substitute.
How do I know when bananas are ripe enough?
The best bananas for baking should be very soft and covered in brown spots. The darker, the better for flavor.
Can I make this without nuts?
You can skip the nuts or replace them with extra chocolate chips. The texture will be different but still delicious.
