Banana Walnut Coffee Cake

Name: Banana Walnut Coffee Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 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 cup walnuts, chopped; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

Highlighted under: Deluxe Baking Inspirations

Bake a delightful Banana Walnut Coffee Cake that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with crunchy walnuts, perfect for breakfast or an afternoon treat.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-01-03T09:51:28.229Z

This Banana Walnut Coffee Cake is a family favorite, combining the rich flavors of bananas and walnuts for a moist and delicious cake. Great for breakfast or dessert!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Moist and tender crumb from ripe bananas
Crunchy walnuts for added texture and flavor
Perfectly sweetened, making it a great snack or breakfast option

      

A Perfect Blend of Flavors

The Banana Walnut Coffee Cake is a delightful fusion of flavors that dance on your palate. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs harmoniously with the nutty crunch of walnuts, creating a cake that is both comforting and indulgent. This combination not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also offers a delightful texture that elevates each bite.

Additionally, the hint of vanilla and the warm spices enhance the overall flavor profile, making this cake a standout choice for any occasion. Whether it’s a leisurely breakfast or an afternoon snack, this cake is sure to impress with its rich taste and inviting aroma.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results with your Banana Walnut Coffee Cake, it’s crucial to use ripe bananas. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal ripeness. Additionally, remember to mash the bananas well to incorporate them evenly into the batter.

When measuring your flour, be sure to spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This prevents packing, which can lead to a denser cake. Lastly, avoid overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients; mixing just until combined will yield a tender, moist crumb.

Serving Suggestions

This Banana Walnut Coffee Cake is delightful on its own, but it can also be dressed up for special occasions. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. Alternatively, a drizzle of caramel sauce can take it to the next level, making it a showstopper at gatherings.

For a more casual serving, pair slices of the cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The rich flavors of the cake complement the warmth of these beverages, creating a cozy experience perfect for enjoying with friends or family. Don’t forget to save some for later; this cake keeps well and can be enjoyed for days!

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 cup walnuts, chopped

For the Topping

1/4 cup brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

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 butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla.

Mix Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. In a small bowl, mix brown sugar and cinnamon, then sprinkle over the top of the batter along with additional walnuts. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of nutmeg or a handful of chocolate chips to the batter.

Storage Tips

To store your Banana Walnut Coffee Cake, allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. This helps to retain moisture and keeps the cake fresh. You can store it at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

If you want to keep the cake longer, consider freezing it. Slice the cake and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This allows you to enjoy a slice whenever the craving strikes, and it can last up to three months in the freezer.

Variations to Try

While the classic Banana Walnut Coffee Cake is delightful, there are several variations you can experiment with. Consider adding chocolate chips for a decadent twist or substituting some of the walnuts with pecans for a different flavor. You might also try incorporating spices like nutmeg or cardamom to enhance the aroma and complexity of the cake.

If you prefer a healthier version, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly. This will give you a nutritious twist without sacrificing too much on flavor. No matter how you choose to customize it, the essence of this cake remains—sweet, moist, and utterly delicious!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ What can I use instead of walnuts?

You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts for a nut-free version.