Irresistible Banana Crumb Cake Recipe

Irresistible Banana Crumb Cake Recipe: A Sweet Homemade Treat

Banana lovers, prepare to fall head over heels for this mouthwatering banana crumb cake that’ll make your taste buds dance with pure delight.

Sweet aromas will waft through your kitchen, promising something spectacular.

Crumbly textures and rich banana flavors blend into a perfect harmony of comfort and indulgence.

Each slice brings memories of cozy weekend mornings and lazy afternoon treats.

Soft, tender cake layers intermingle with a crispy, buttery crumb topping that adds irresistible crunch.

Delicate hints of cinnamon weave through the recipe, creating a warm and inviting experience.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this delectable dessert that turns simple ingredients into pure magic.

Gather your mixing bowl and let’s create something extraordinary that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.

Banana Crumb Cake: Sweet, Crunchy Layers

  • Perfect for home bakers of all skill levels, this banana crumb cake requires simple mixing techniques and basic ingredients anyone can handle.
  • Packed with classic banana flavor and a delightful crumbly topping, this dessert appeals to both kids and adults, making it ideal for family gatherings or weekend treats.
  • Minimal prep work and straightforward instructions mean you can whip up this delicious cake without spending hours in the kitchen, delivering maximum taste with minimal effort.
  • Enjoy as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or elegant dessert – this cake transitions beautifully between different meal times and occasions.

Ingredients for Banana Crumb Cake

Main Ingredients:
  • Bananas: Ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
  • Flour: The primary structure and base for the cake batter.
  • Butter: Adds richness and creates a tender cake texture.
  • Sugar: Provides sweetness and helps with the cake's caramelization.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure to the cake.
Leavening Agents:
  • Baking Powder, Baking Soda: Help the cake rise and create a light, fluffy texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
Flavor Enhancers and Moisture Ingredients:
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds a classic, warm flavor to the cake.
  • Sour Cream, Vanilla: Contribute moisture and depth to the cake's taste.
Crumb Topping Ingredients:
  • Flour, Brown Sugar, White Sugar, Cinnamon: Create a sweet and spicy crumbly topping.
  • Cold Butter: Helps form the characteristic crumbly texture of the topping.

How to Layer and Bake Banana Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prepare Baking Setup

Warm up the oven to 350F (175C).

Grab an 8×8-inch baking pan and coat it with butter or cooking spray.

Dust the pan lightly with flour to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Mash Banana Base

Take ripe bananas and crush them thoroughly in a mixing bowl using a fork until they become smooth and creamy.

Set the mashed bananas aside for later use.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Ensure all dry ingredients are evenly combined with no lumps.

Step 4: Create Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

Pour in vanilla extract and sour cream.

Gently fold in the mashed bananas until fully incorporated.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients.

Stir gently until just combined.

Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 6: Craft Crumb Topping

In a separate bowl, mix together:
  • Flour
  • Brown sugar
  • White sugar
  • Ground cinnamon

Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 7: Assemble and Top Cake

Transfer the cake batter into the prepared pan.

Spread it evenly with a spatula.

Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the entire surface.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection

Place the pan in the preheated oven.

Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

The top should be golden brown and slightly crispy.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 15 minutes.

Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Enjoy the delightful combination of moist banana cake and crunchy crumb topping.

Tips for Luscious Banana and Streusel Texture

  • Choose overripe bananas with dark brown or black spots for maximum sweetness and deeper flavor in the cake.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake moist and tender, stirring just until ingredients are combined.
  • Use cold butter and work quickly with your fingers to create a perfectly textured, crumbly topping that doesn't melt.
  • Bring eggs, butter, and sour cream to room temperature before mixing to ensure smoother batter and more even baking.
  • Store the cake covered at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain its delicious texture and flavor.

Storing and Reheating Banana Crumb Cake

  • Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
  • Wrap individual slices or the entire cake in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.
  • Keep at room temperature for 1-2 days if covered with a cake dome or plastic wrap, away from direct sunlight or heat sources.
  • Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. For crispy crumb topping, reheat in the oven at 325F for 5-7 minutes, which helps restore the cake's original texture and warmth.

Serving Ideas for Banana Crumb Cake

  • Pair with Creamy Coffee Delight: Brew a rich, medium-roast coffee with a splash of vanilla-flavored creamer to complement the cake's sweet banana notes and enhance its warm, comforting flavors.
  • Elevate with Caramel Drizzle Companion: Add a smooth caramel sauce on the side, which will beautifully highlight the cake's cinnamon crumb topping and bring out the deeper, richer undertones of the dessert.
  • Refresh with Cinnamon-Spiced Tea Twist: Serve alongside a warm cup of chai or cinnamon tea, creating a harmonious blend that echoes the cake's spicy crumb topping and adds a gentle, aromatic dimension to each bite.
  • Indulge with Vanilla Bean Ice Cream Pairing: Top the warm cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream, letting the cold, smooth texture contrast deliciously with the cake's warm, tender crumb.

Flavor Variations on Banana Crumb Cake

  • Gluten-Free Banana Crumb Cake: Replace wheat flour with almond or coconut flour for a gluten-free alternative that maintains the cake's rich texture and flavor.
  • Vegan Banana Crumb Cake: Substitute eggs with mashed bananas or flax eggs, use plant-based butter, and swap sour cream with coconut yogurt to create a dairy-free, egg-free version.
  • Low-Sugar Banana Crumb Cake: Reduce sugar content by using stevia or monk fruit sweetener, and incorporate more ripe bananas for natural sweetness without compromising taste.
  • Nutty Banana Crumb Cake: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping and batter for extra crunch and a nutty flavor profile that complements the bananas.

FAQs

  • Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect for this cake as they’re sweeter and more flavorful, creating a richer banana taste and moist texture.

  • Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a 1:1 replacement to maintain the cake’s structure and texture.

  • How do I know when the banana crumb cake is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. Avoid any wet batter on the toothpick.

  • Can I freeze this banana crumb cake?

Definitely! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

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Irresistible Banana Crumb Cake Recipe

Irresistible Banana Crumb Cake Recipe


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4.9 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Banana crumb cake emerges as a delightful dessert that promises pure comfort and indulgence. Moist banana layers topped with a buttery crumb topping create a perfect balance of sweetness and texture that will charm anyone seeking a delectable treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 ripe bananas
  • 2 cups (240 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup (113 grams) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 grams) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs

Wet Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) sour cream
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Dry Ingredients and Crumb Topping:

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (50 grams) brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/4 cup (57 grams) cold unsalted butter

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and thoroughly coat an 8×8-inch baking dish with grease and flour to prevent sticking.
  2. Transform ripe bananas into a smooth, creamy mash using a fork, creating a rich base for the cake’s moisture.
  3. Sift together essential dry components: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium mixing bowl, ensuring even distribution of leavening agents.
  4. In a spacious mixing bowl, whip butter and sugar until light and airy, creating a fluffy foundation. Incorporate eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream, blending until smooth.
  5. Gently fold the mashed bananas into the creamy mixture, allowing their natural sweetness to infuse throughout the batter.
  6. Gradually introduce the dry ingredient mixture, stirring carefully to maintain the batter’s delicate texture without overmixing.
  7. Prepare the crumb topping by combining flour, brown and white sugars, ground cinnamon, and chilled butter, using fingertips to create a sandy, crumbly consistency.
  8. Transfer the banana-rich batter into the prepared pan, ensuring an even surface.
  9. Generously scatter the crumb topping across the entire cake surface, covering it completely with the crunchy mixture.
  10. Slide the cake into the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick that should emerge clean and dry.
  11. Remove from oven and allow the cake to cool completely, letting the flavors settle and the texture firm up before slicing and serving.

Notes

  • Ensure bananas are overripe for maximum sweetness and deeper flavor, creating a more moist and rich cake texture.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a tough, dense cake – stop mixing as soon as dry ingredients are just incorporated.
  • For gluten-free option, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend to maintain the cake’s delicate structure.
  • Room temperature ingredients like eggs, butter, and sour cream help create a smoother, more evenly mixed batter that bakes more consistently.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 50 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 320
  • Sugar: 19 g
  • Sodium: 180 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 43 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Jack Sullivan

Jack Sullivan

Founder & Culinary Storyteller

Expertise

Single-recipe development with a narrative approach, Culinary storytelling and food history, Seasonal and regional ingredient utilization, Home cooking techniques adapted for modern kitchens​

Education

New England Culinary Institute (Montpelier, VT)
Certificate in Culinary Arts

Focused on farm-to-table cooking, sustainable practices, and modern plating techniques.​

​Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College
Associate Degree in Culinary Arts

Emphasized Southern Appalachian cuisine and local ingredient sourcing.​


Jack grew up surrounded by smoky skillets and handwritten recipes in the mountains of North Carolina. His roots in Appalachian cooking shaped the way he sees food – as something that connects people, tells a story, and holds meaning.
With hands-on training and a background in sustainable, regional cooking, Jack started Boil And Broil to make meaningful meals more accessible. He’s all about one-dish recipes that are simple to follow but rich with flavor and history.

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