This Banana Bread Crumb Cake combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas with a moist, tender crumb, topped with a buttery streusel. It’s the perfect treat for any occasion, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and texture.
Whether enjoyed as a comforting breakfast, a delightful brunch item, or a sweet dessert, this cake is sure to please. The combination of banana bread and crumb cake creates a unique and satisfying flavor profile that will have everyone asking for the recipe.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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For the Banana Cake:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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3 teaspoons baking powder
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1 teaspoon salt
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3 ripe bananas, mashed
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½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
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2 cups granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 cup milk
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For the Crumb Topping:
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1 cup packed brown sugar
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2/3 cup all-purpose flour
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½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
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½ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
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Directions:
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
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In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
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Add the butter to the mashed bananas and mix until combined.
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Stir in the granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.
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Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
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Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
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In a separate bowl, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon for the crumb topping.
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Cut in the cold butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
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Sprinkle the crumb topping evenly over the batter.
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Allow to cool before slicing and serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 45 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Kcal: 482 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings
The Story Behind Banana Bread Crumb Cake
Banana bread crumb cake is a delightful twist on the beloved banana bread, elevated with a buttery streusel topping that adds irresistible texture and flavor. This cake isn’t just your standard banana bread. It takes the soft, moist qualities of banana bread and pairs them with the rich decadence of a crumb cake, making it suitable for both breakfast and dessert. The idea behind combining these two favorites is to create a comforting, bakery-style treat that feels indulgent but is easy enough to make at home.
Whether you’re trying to use up overripe bananas or are simply looking to bake something cozy and crowd-pleasing, this recipe fits the bill. It’s also a perfect offering for potlucks, brunch gatherings, coffee mornings, or lazy weekend baking sessions. The marriage of banana flavor and the sweet, buttery crumble makes this a stand-out baked good that quickly disappears from the dessert table.
Why This Recipe Works
The secret to this cake’s magic lies in its texture and balance of flavors. Mashed bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, making the crumb incredibly tender. Meanwhile, the crumb topping—made with brown sugar, butter, flour, and a touch of cinnamon—creates a caramelized, slightly crunchy top that contrasts beautifully with the softness of the cake beneath.
Unlike some banana breads that can be overly dense, this version incorporates leavening agents and milk to ensure a lighter, cake-like structure. The recipe also uses a good ratio of fat (in the form of butter) to create richness without making the cake overly heavy. The end result is a fluffy, moist base with a perfectly golden top that breaks into a buttery crumble with every bite.
A Perfect Use for Overripe Bananas
One of the biggest advantages of banana-based baking is its ability to reduce food waste. Instead of tossing those spotted, brown bananas, transform them into a luscious, sweet batter that enhances both flavor and moisture. Overripe bananas are actually preferred in this recipe, as their sugars are more developed, which means better sweetness and stronger banana flavor.
Using your overripe bananas in a recipe like this makes the cake not only more delicious but also sustainable. It’s a small but effective way to reduce food waste while treating yourself and your family to something delicious.
Ideal Occasions to Serve This Cake
Banana bread crumb cake is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. It can be sliced and served warm with coffee in the morning, or plated with whipped cream or ice cream for a more indulgent dessert. It’s also a great treat for kids after school, a bake-sale champion, or a thoughtful gift for neighbors or friends.
During the holidays, it serves as a cozy breakfast or brunch option that feels special but doesn’t require hours of prep time. It’s just as welcome at a summer picnic as it is during chilly winter months, making it a year-round favorite.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
This crumb cake stores beautifully, which makes it perfect for meal prep or make-ahead gatherings. It keeps well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, it can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for up to three months.
To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a resealable freezer bag. This allows you to thaw only what you need, when you need it. Simply microwave for 30 seconds or let it come to room temperature for an easy snack or breakfast.
Customizing Your Banana Bread Crumb Cake
One of the joys of this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Want more crunch? Add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the crumb topping. Prefer it on the sweeter side? Drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled cake.
You can also experiment with spice blends—try adding a pinch of nutmeg, allspice, or even cardamom for a warm, aromatic twist. If you’re avoiding dairy, swap the butter and milk for plant-based alternatives. The recipe is forgiving, so feel free to make it your own.
Tips for Perfect Results Every Time
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Use very ripe bananas: The riper, the better. They should be soft, brown-spotted, and fragrant.
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Don’t overmix the batter: Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid a tough texture.
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Use cold butter for the crumble: Cold cubes of butter create the best crumbly texture.
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Let the cake cool before slicing: This helps the crumb set properly and prevents it from falling apart.
Why Everyone Loves This Cake
There’s something universally appealing about banana bread, and when you add a crumb topping, it becomes even more irresistible. The familiar banana flavor evokes comfort and nostalgia, while the crunchy topping adds a bakery-style flair that feels a little fancy without being pretentious.
It also bridges the gap between breakfast and dessert. You can serve it with coffee or tea as a morning treat, or dress it up for a cozy after-dinner sweet. It appeals to kids and adults alike and can be made with pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
Nutrition and Dietary Notes
While this is definitely a treat, it offers more than just empty calories. Bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, which contribute to a feeling of fullness and support heart health. The recipe can also be adapted for certain dietary preferences. Using whole wheat flour adds more fiber, while using coconut sugar or maple syrup in place of white sugar provides a more natural sweetness.
Those watching their dairy intake can swap traditional butter and milk with vegan substitutes, and gluten-free bakers can use a 1-to-1 GF flour mix. Just remember that changes in ingredients can alter the texture slightly, so test small batches if trying it for the first time.
Pairing Ideas and Serving Suggestions
This cake is fantastic on its own, but it also pairs well with a few extra touches. Serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream, or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt for a more wholesome twist. A drizzle of caramel or a dusting of powdered sugar can make the presentation extra special for guests.
If you’re serving it as part of a brunch spread, consider pairing it with savory options like quiche, scrambled eggs, or avocado toast to balance the sweetness. It also goes exceptionally well with a hot cup of coffee, chai latte, or cold brew.
Conclusion
Banana Bread Crumb Cake is a warm, satisfying fusion of two beloved comfort foods. It transforms ordinary ingredients into a rich, flavorful experience that’s ideal for nearly any occasion. Whether you’re trying to impress guests or simply enjoy a quiet moment with your coffee, this cake offers the perfect bite of sweetness and nostalgia.
What makes it truly special is its adaptability, ease of preparation, and consistent crowd-pleasing appeal. Once you try it, it’s bound to become a staple in your baking rotation. Moist, flavorful, and topped with golden crumbs, it’s a slice of homemade happiness you’ll return to again and again.