Banana Walnut Coffee Cake
Highlighted under: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts
Enjoy a slice of this delightful Banana Walnut Coffee Cake, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day.
This Banana Walnut Coffee Cake is a family favorite, combining the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of walnuts, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. It's simple to make and is always a hit at gatherings.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful banana cake with crunchy walnuts
- Perfectly sweet with a hint of cinnamon
- Great for breakfast, brunch, or coffee breaks
A Perfect Blend of Flavors
This Banana Walnut Coffee Cake showcases a delightful harmony of flavors that make it a standout choice for any occasion. The ripe bananas contribute natural sweetness and moisture, while the crunchy walnuts add a delightful texture. Together, they create a cake that is not only delicious but also has a comforting homemade quality that everyone will love. The hint of cinnamon enhances the flavor profile, making each bite a warm and inviting experience.
Whether you're enjoying a quiet morning at home or hosting a brunch with friends, this coffee cake is an excellent addition to your table. Its versatility means it can be served at any time of day, be it breakfast, an afternoon snack, or dessert. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and you have the perfect pick-me-up treat that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
Simple and Quick Preparation
One of the best things about this Banana Walnut Coffee Cake is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up this delicious cake in no time. The straightforward mixing process means you won't spend hours in the kitchen, making it a great option for busy mornings or spontaneous gatherings. If you're looking to impress without the stress, this recipe is your go-to.
Plus, the use of overripe bananas not only reduces food waste but also adds a natural sweetness that makes this cake healthier than many alternatives. So, next time you have some bananas sitting on your counter, don't hesitate to turn them into this delectable coffee cake!
Storage and Serving Suggestions
Once baked and cooled, this coffee cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, making it an ideal treat for meal prep or a busy week. For longer storage, you can freeze individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. Simply thaw at room temperature or warm in the microwave for a few seconds when you're ready to indulge again.
Serving this cake is as easy as slicing it into squares and placing it on a beautiful platter. For an extra touch, consider dusting the top with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or serving it with a dollop of whipped cream. This will elevate the presentation and make it even more irresistible!
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
Mix the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix well. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chopped walnuts, and cinnamon for the topping.
Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the topping evenly over the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Pro Tips
- For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Variations and Add-Ins
While the classic combination of banana and walnut is delightful, there are numerous ways to customize this coffee cake to suit your taste. Consider adding chocolate chips for a decadent twist or dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for added sweetness and chewiness. You can also experiment with different nuts, such as pecans or almonds, for a unique flavor profile.
If you're looking to make this recipe a bit healthier, try substituting half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour. This will give the cake a nutty flavor while boosting its nutritional content. You can also reduce the sugar slightly if you prefer a less sweet option.
The Perfect Pairing
This Banana Walnut Coffee Cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. A freshly brewed cup of coffee is the classic choice, but you can also serve it with herbal teas or even a glass of milk for a comforting combination. The rich flavors of the cake complement the warmth of the drinks, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for gatherings or quiet moments at home.
For a festive touch, consider serving this cake alongside seasonal beverages during holidays. It can be a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving or Christmas brunch spread, bringing a touch of warmth and sweetness to your celebrations.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, frozen bananas work great! Just make sure to thaw them and drain any excess moisture.
→ Can I substitute the walnuts?
Absolutely! You can use pecans or omit nuts entirely if you prefer.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can I freeze this coffee cake?
Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing it in the freezer. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Banana Walnut Coffee Cake
Enjoy a slice of this delightful Banana Walnut Coffee Cake, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Created by: Lena
Recipe Type: Sweet Treats & Homemade Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 12 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla extract, and mix well. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chopped walnuts, and cinnamon for the topping.
Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and sprinkle the topping evenly over the top. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!
Extra Tips
- For an extra touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Total Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
- Sodium: 150mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 39g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 18g
- Protein: 4g