Name: Banana Crumb Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into 1-inch pieces, room temperature; ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar; ⅓ cup (67 g) granulated sugar; ⅓ cup (67 g) light brown sugar, packed; 1 ¼ cups (142 g) cake flour; ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon kosher salt; 1 ¾ cups (199.5 g) cake flour; ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; ½ cup (1 stick / 113 g) unsalted butter, melted; ¼ cup (61 g) buttermilk, room temperature; 1 large egg, room temperature; 1 large egg yolk, room temperature; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)

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If you are looking for the ultimate comfort dessert that brings together the warmth of ripe bananas and the delightful crunch of a golden topping, this Banana Crumb Cake Recipe will become your new favorite. Bursting with rich banana flavor and adorned with a perfectly spiced crumb topping, it’s the kind of treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Moist, tender, and just sweet enough, this cake is guaranteed to brighten any day—whether for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of smooth, light beige batter in a glass bowl. The batter has a creamy texture with soft waves and folds made by a gray spatula with a wooden handle, which is partially inside the bowl on the right side. The glass bowl sits on a white marbled surface, and the batter looks thick and shiny with a soft, flowing form. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the ingredients for this Banana Crumb Cake Recipe is a breeze because each component plays a vital role in creating that moist, crumbly magic. From the sweet ripe bananas that infuse the cake with natural sweetness to the buttery crumb topping that adds irresistible texture, every item counts.

Unsalted butter (1 stick / 113 g, melted): Adds richness and moisture to the cake base.
Granulated sugar (⅓ cup + ½ cup): Provides balanced sweetness, ensuring the cake is not too sugary but perfectly satisfying.
Light brown sugar (⅓ cup, packed): Imparts a subtle caramel note that deepens the crumb flavor.
Ground cinnamon (¾ teaspoon): Brings warm spice that complements the banana beautifully.
Ground nutmeg (¼ teaspoon): Adds a fragrant hint of nutty spice enhancing the overall aroma.
Kosher salt (½ teaspoon total): Balances sweetness and highlights flavors throughout the cake and topping.
Cake flour (3 cups total): Ensures a tender crumb, keeping the texture light yet moist.
Baking soda (¼ teaspoon): Helps the cake rise perfectly without becoming dense.
Unsalted butter (6 tablespoons, room temperature, cut into pieces): For the crumb topping’s delightful, buttery crunch.
Buttermilk (¼ cup, room temperature): Adds acidity that reacts with the baking soda for a tender crumb while also enhancing flavor.
Large egg and egg yolk (room temperature): Provide structure and richness to the batter.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Offers a sweet fragrance that ties the flavors together.
Ripe bananas (2, mashed; about 1 cup): The star ingredient, contributing moistness, natural sweetness, and that unmistakable banana charm.

How to Make Banana Crumb Cake Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 325°F. Line an 8×8 inch baking dish with aluminum foil, extending it over the edges so you can easily lift the cake out later. Don’t forget to give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray to keep everything from sticking. This prep sets the stage for a smooth baking experience.

Step 2: Create the Crumb Topping

In a medium bowl, mix together the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and cake flour. Stir gently until the ingredients just come together into a crumbly mixture. Be mindful not to overmix—these crumbs will bake into the irresistible crunchy topping that crowns the cake.

Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter

In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, combine the cake flour, sugar, salt, and baking soda. Add the butter pieces one by one, mixing on low until the mixture reaches a fine crumb texture with no visible butter pockets. Then add the buttermilk, eggs, vanilla, and the mashed bananas. Increase the speed to medium and beat until the batter is light and fluffy, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula. Next, sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter. Gently break it apart with your fingers or a fork to create uneven, rustic crumbs, then spread them evenly over the surface.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Bake the cake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the crumb topping turns a beautiful golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out with a few dry crumbs but no wet batter. This signals the cake is perfectly baked with a moist interior and crunchy topping.

Step 6: Cool and Finish

Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for about 30 minutes. Use the foil edges to gently lift the cake out and let it cool completely. For an optional finishing touch, dust the top with a light sprinkle of confectioners’ sugar just before serving to add a pretty shimmer and a touch of sweetness.

How to Serve Banana Crumb Cake Recipe

The image shows two square pieces of crumb cake stacked on top of each other on a white marbled surface. Each piece has two layers: the bottom layer is thick and yellow with a soft, moist texture, and the top layer is a crumbly light brown streusel with visible small clumps. Some crumbs have fallen onto the white marbled surface around the base, and the background is blurred with a warm brown tone. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar can highlight the crumb topping’s texture and add a hint of sweetness without overpowering. For an extra special touch, try fresh banana slices or a dollop of whipped cream to amplify the banana experience.

Side Dishes

This banana crumb cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Coffee or tea makes the perfect companion beverage, turning your snack into a cozy moment of pure indulgence.

Creative Ways to Present

For a brunch spread, serve the banana crumb cake on a decorative cake stand, garnished with edible flowers or toasted pecans. You can also cut it into small squares and serve it alongside fresh fruit for a delightful party platter that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover banana crumb cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep the crumb topping crunchy. Beyond that, refrigeration is best, although the crumb may soften slightly.

Freezing

You can freeze the banana crumb cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Rewarm individual slices in a microwave for about 15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F for 10 minutes to bring back that fresh-baked texture and warmth. The crumb topping will regain some of its crispness with this gentle heat.

FAQs

Can I use regular all-purpose flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, though cake flour helps keep the crumb tender. If you only have all-purpose flour, you can substitute it by removing 2 tablespoons per cup and replacing with cornstarch for a softer texture.

What ripeness level should the bananas be?

For the best sweetness and banana flavor, use very ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. Overripe bananas blend more easily and add natural sugars to the cake.

Is it okay to substitute buttermilk?

If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to ¼ cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Swap the cake flour for a gluten-free baking blend designed for cakes. Keep the rest of the recipe the same for delicious results.

How long does the crumb topping stay crunchy?

The topping is crunchiest right after baking and begins to soften within a day or two. Storing the cake uncovered briefly before sealing can help preserve some crispness.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Crumb Cake Recipe is one of those delightful pleasures that feels like a little celebration every time you take a bite. Whether for a quiet morning treat or an inviting dessert, it never fails to bring a smile. Give it a try—you might just discover a new favorite to share with friends and family again and again.