Banana Pecan Coffee Cake
Highlighted under: Easy Baking Recipes
Delight in the comforting flavors of this Banana Pecan Coffee Cake, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day.
This Banana Pecan Coffee Cake is a delightful combination of moist banana bread and crunchy pecans, making it an irresistible choice for your morning coffee or afternoon tea.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Moist and flavorful banana base with crunchy pecans
- Perfect balance of sweetness and nuttiness
- Easy to prepare, making it a great option for any skill level
The Perfect Morning Treat
There's something truly special about starting your day with a slice of homemade Banana Pecan Coffee Cake. The moist banana base, complemented by crunchy pecans, creates a delightful texture that is both satisfying and indulgent. This cake not only makes for a delicious breakfast option but also serves as a wonderful accompaniment to your afternoon coffee or tea. With its rich flavors and inviting aroma, it's bound to become a favorite in your household.
In addition to its scrumptious taste, this coffee cake is a breeze to prepare. Whether you're an experienced baker or a beginner, the straightforward instructions make it easy to whip up a fresh cake in no time. You can enjoy the process of mixing and baking, and before you know it, your kitchen will be filled with the delightful scent of bananas and nuts.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the best aspects of this Banana Pecan Coffee Cake is its versatility. While the recipe calls for pecans, feel free to swap them out for your favorite nuts or even chocolate chips for a different flavor profile. You can experiment with adding spices like nutmeg or ginger to the batter for an extra kick, or incorporate shredded coconut for a tropical twist. The possibilities are endless, making this cake a delightful canvas for your creativity.
Additionally, this cake can be easily adapted to suit various dietary preferences. If you're looking for a healthier option, consider using whole wheat flour or reducing the sugar. You can also replace the butter with a healthier fat alternative, such as coconut oil. This way, you can enjoy a guilt-free treat without compromising on flavor.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Once you've baked your Banana Pecan Coffee Cake, you'll want to know how to store it properly to maintain its freshness. Allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for a week. If you want to enjoy it later, consider freezing individual slices. Simply wrap them tightly and store in the freezer for up to three months.
When it comes to serving, this cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate the experience by pairing it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Drizzling a little caramel sauce on top can also add an extra layer of sweetness. Regardless of how you choose to enjoy it, this Banana Pecan Coffee Cake is sure to impress and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Mix all the ingredients thoroughly before pouring them into the baking pan.
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Prepare the Batter
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
Add Pecans
Fold in the chopped pecans gently into the batter.
Prepare the Topping
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chopped pecans, and cinnamon.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the topping mixture over the top. Bake for 30-35 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.
Enjoy your delicious Banana Pecan Coffee Cake with a cup of coffee or tea!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe? Absolutely! Frozen bananas work wonderfully in baking as they become even sweeter once thawed. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid before mashing them to maintain the right batter consistency.
What can I serve with Banana Pecan Coffee Cake? This coffee cake pairs beautifully with a variety of beverages. Consider serving it alongside your favorite coffee, tea, or even a glass of milk. For a more indulgent treat, a scoop of ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can take it to the next level.
Tips for Success
To ensure your cake turns out perfectly moist, use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Additionally, make sure not to overmix the batter; doing so can result in a dense cake. Mix until just combined for the best texture.
For an added burst of flavor, consider toasting your pecans before incorporating them into the batter. This process enhances their nutty flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your cake. Just keep an eye on them while toasting to avoid burning.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work great in this recipe. Just make sure to drain any excess liquid.
→ Can I substitute the pecans with another nut?
Absolutely! Walnuts or almonds would also be delicious in this coffee cake.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
→ Can this recipe be doubled?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as needed.
Banana Pecan Coffee Cake
Delight in the comforting flavors of this Banana Pecan Coffee Cake, perfect for breakfast or as a sweet treat any time of day.
Created by: Anna
Recipe Type: Easy Baking Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Topping
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined.
Fold in the chopped pecans gently into the batter.
In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, chopped pecans, and cinnamon.
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle the topping mixture over the top. Bake for 30-35 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.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 380 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 195mg
- Sodium: 85mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 24g
- Protein: 6g