If you’re a fan of banana bread but are looking to elevate your dessert game, this Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl is just what you need. Bursting with the rich flavor of ripe bananas combined with the creamy texture of a delightful cream cheese swirl, this cake is perfect for breakfast or as an afternoon treat. The coffee cake is not only easy to prepare but also offers a unique twist on traditional banana recipes. no bake treats for dessert Whether it’s for a cozy weekend brunch or an impressive dessert for guests, this cake delivers on taste and presentation. With its moist crumb and sumptuous cream cheese layer, it’s sure to become a family favorite. So grab your mixing bowls and let’s dive into this delectable recipe that brings together comforting flavors in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl
- Irresistible Flavor Combination: The combination of sweet bananas and tangy cream cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor that pairs beautifully with your morning coffee.
- Moist and Tender Texture: This coffee cake is incredibly moist thanks to the bananas, ensuring each slice melts in your mouth.
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and minimal ingredients, you can whip up this delicious cake in no time, making it accessible even for beginner bakers.
Ingredients for Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl
For more inspiration, check out this Preserved Lemons recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Bananas: Use about three medium-sized ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture; the browner they are, the better for baking.
- Cream Cheese: Choose full-fat cream cheese for richness; ensure it’s softened at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar sweetens the batter while brown sugar adds depth of flavor; consider using half of each for balance.
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard all-purpose flour works best for structure; measure accurately to avoid a dense cake.
- Baking Powder: This leavening agent ensures your cake rises beautifully; make sure it’s fresh for optimal effectiveness.
For the Topping:
- Cinnamon Sugar Mixture: A blend of sugar and cinnamon sprinkled on top adds a delightful crunch and aroma to finish off your cake perfectly. For more inspiration, check out this Maple Bacon Cinnamon Rolls recipe.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a square baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Mixture
In a medium bowl, beat together softened cream cheese, sugar, an egg, and vanilla extract until smooth; set aside while you mix the batter.
Step 3: Make the Banana Batter
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly. Add melted butter, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract, mixing well until combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this mixture to the banana mixture until just combined; do not overmix.
Step 5: Assemble the Cake
Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared pan. Spread half of the cream cheese mixture over it. Pour in the remaining banana batter followed by dollops of remaining cream cheese mixture; swirl gently using a knife.
Step 6: Bake
Bake in preheated oven for about 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow cooling before slicing.
Transfer to plates and enjoy with your favorite beverage or serve warm as a delightful dessert!
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper your bananas are, the sweeter your cake will be; look for those with brown spots.
- Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Add Nuts or Chocolate Chips: For extra texture and flavor, consider folding in walnuts or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
How to Serve Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl
This Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Coffee: A classic pairing that enhances the cake’s rich flavors and provides a delightful contrast to its sweetness.
- Whipped Cream: Adds a light, airy texture that complements the dense cake and balances the cream cheese swirl.
- Fresh Berries: Their tartness brightens the palate, making each bite of cake even more enjoyable.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the banana coffee cake batter up to one day in advance. Simply mix the ingredients and store the batter in an airtight container in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before pouring it into the pan.
- Storing: To store leftovers, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices for up to three months.
- Reheating: To reheat, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place a slice of cake on a baking sheet and cover it loosely with foil. Heat for about 10-15 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring it retains its moisture and flavor.
Suggestions for Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl
Use Ripe Bananas
Using ripe bananas is crucial for making the perfect Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl. The natural sweetness and moisture from ripe bananas enhance the cake’s flavor and texture. If your bananas are still green, they may lack the essential sugars and flavor needed for a delicious cake. cinnamon sugar banana chips Look for bananas with brown spots on the peel; this indicates that they are ripe and will provide a richer taste. Avoid using overripe bananas as they can lead to a mushy texture that doesn’t bake well.
Don’t Overmix the Batter
One common mistake when making Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl is overmixing the batter. Mixing too much can develop gluten, leading to a dense and tough cake. Instead, gently fold the ingredients together until just combined. This technique ensures that the cake remains light and fluffy, allowing you to enjoy its delicious flavors fully. Remember, it’s okay if there are some lumps in the batter; these will bake out.
Properly Prepare Your Pan
A well-prepared pan is essential for achieving perfect results in your Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl. Ensure you grease your baking pan thoroughly with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. Additionally, consider lining the bottom with parchment paper for extra insurance against sticking. If using a bundt pan, be sure to coat all crevices evenly so that your cake releases smoothly after baking.
Monitor Baking Time
Keeping an eye on your cake while it bakes is vital for achieving the ideal texture in your Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl. Every oven is different; therefore, baking times may vary. Start checking your cake a few minutes before the suggested time in your recipe. caramel brownie cheesecake Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean or with moist crumbs attached, it’s ready to take out of the oven. Overbaking can lead to dryness, so be vigilant.
FAQs
What makes banana coffee cake different from regular coffee cake?
Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl differs from traditional coffee cakes mainly due to its key ingredient: ripe bananas. These add moisture and sweetness, creating a denser yet flavorful texture compared to standard coffee cakes which might rely solely on sugar and flour mixtures. Additionally, incorporating cream cheese adds richness that balances out the banana’s sweetness, making this variation uniquely indulgent.
Can I substitute other ingredients in banana coffee cake?
Absolutely! You can modify various ingredients in your Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl without sacrificing flavor or texture. For instance, if you want a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour or coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar. You can also replace cream cheese with Greek yogurt for a lighter alternative while keeping it creamy and delicious.
How do I store leftover banana coffee cake?
To store leftover Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl properly, allow it to cool completely at room temperature first. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to retain moisture and freshness. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate it for up to one week. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap followed by foil.
Can I freeze banana coffee cake?
Yes! Freezing Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl is an excellent way to preserve its deliciousness for later enjoyment. To do this effectively, ensure that the cake has cooled completely after baking. Wrap entire cakes or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight freezer bag or container. They can last up to three months frozen; simply thaw them overnight in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy.
Conclusion for Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl
In summary, making an incredible Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl requires attention to detail and some key strategies for success. Begin by using perfectly ripe bananas and avoid overmixing your batter for optimal texture and flavor. Properly prepare your baking pan and monitor baking times closely to prevent any mishaps during cooking. Feel free to experiment with substitutions based on dietary preferences while ensuring proper storage techniques extend the life of your delicious creation! With these tips in mind, you’ll enjoy a delightful treat that’s sure to impress friends and family alike!
Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves about 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Indulge in this delightful Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl, a perfect blend of sweet bananas and creamy richness. This moist coffee cake is an ideal breakfast treat or afternoon snack, featuring a luscious cream cheese layer that elevates the classic banana bread experience. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, it’s sure to become a beloved staple in your home.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (medium-sized)
- 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (melted)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a square baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, mix softened cream cheese with 1/4 cup sugar, one egg, and vanilla extract until smooth; set aside.
- In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas. Add melted butter, remaining sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix well.
- In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients to the banana mixture until just combined.
- Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan; spread half of the cream cheese mixture on top. Repeat with remaining batter and cream cheese mixture; swirl gently with a knife.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before slicing.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 240
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
