Name: Moist Banana Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel and Vanilla Glaze Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (125 grams); 1/3 cup granulated sugar (67 grams); 1/3 cup brown sugar (67 grams), light or dark; 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/3 cup unsalted butter (75 grams), melted; 2 cups all-purpose flour (250 grams); 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter (112 grams), melted and cooled slightly; 3/4 cup granulated sugar (150 grams); 1/4 cup brown sugar (50 grams), packed; 2 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sour cream (120 ml), room temperature; 1 cup mashed bananas (240 ml), about 2-3 large ripe bananas; 3-4 tablespoons whipping cream (45-60 ml) or milk; 1 – 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar (110 – 165 grams)

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 55 reviews

If you love the cozy comfort of banana bread but crave something a little more special and indulgent, then you absolutely must try this Moist Banana Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel and Vanilla Glaze Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of soft, flavorful banana cake with an irresistibly crunchy cinnamon streusel topping, all drizzled with a luscious vanilla glaze that melts in your mouth. Every bite offers a deliciously moist texture, warmly spiced accents, and just the right amount of sweetness, making it an instant favorite for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon pick-me-up with coffee.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows two clear glass bowls on a white marbled surface. The left bowl contains white flour with a small pile of brown powder, likely cinnamon, layered on top near the edge, with a fork placed diagonally above the bowl. The right bowl holds a mix of wet ingredients including two yellow egg yolks, white sugar, a small scoop of salt, and a drizzle of brown vanilla extract, arranged separately but close together inside the bowl. A fork is placed diagonally above this bowl as well. The scene is bright and clean. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This recipe keeps things simple and straightforward, relying on everyday pantry staples that each play a crucial role in creating that perfectly balanced taste and texture. From the bananas that deliver moisture and sweetness to the cinnamon that adds warm spice, every ingredient is essential.

All-purpose flour: Provides structure for the cake and streusel, ensuring a tender crumb and crisp topping.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and contributes to a light texture.
Brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor, especially in the streusel.
Ground cinnamon: Brings that unmistakable warm, spicy kick to both cake and streusel.
Unsalted butter: Adds richness and moisture when melted into the batter and streusel.
Baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully while keeping it soft.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
Vanilla extract: Intensifies the sweetness and adds a lovely aromatic note.
Sour cream: Contributes tanginess and keeps the cake ultra-moist.
Mashed bananas: The star ingredient for flavor, moisture, and natural sweetness.
Whipping cream (or milk): Used to create the smooth vanilla glaze perfect for drizzling.
Powdered sugar: Gives the glaze its sweet, silky finish.

How to Make Moist Banana Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel and Vanilla Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). Carefully grease a 9-inch springform pan and dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking. Wrapping the outside of the pan with tin foil is a smart move to avoid any leaks during baking, ensuring a perfect cake every time.

Step 2: Make the Cinnamon Streusel

Whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Then, pour in the melted butter and stir until the mixture forms moist crumbs. This streusel will add a beautifully crunchy and flavorful topping that contrasts wonderfully with the soft cake below.

Step 3: Mix Dry Ingredients for the Cake

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these early helps ensure even distribution and a smooth batter later on.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Whisk the melted butter with the granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until no lumps remain. Then gently stir in the sour cream for tangy moisture that will keep this cake wonderfully soft.

Step 5: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together

Slowly mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Take care not to overmix so your cake stays light and tender. Then fold in the mashed bananas—some lumps are perfect and add great texture.

Step 6: Assemble and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Evenly sprinkle the streusel over the cake. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean and the cake feels firm when lightly nudged. If needed, bake a few minutes longer to ensure the center is set.

Step 7: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze and Finish

While the cake cools in its pan, whisk together powdered sugar and whipping cream until you get a smooth, drizzling consistency. Carefully release the springform pan sides and drizzle the creamy glaze over the cooled cake for that irresistible finishing touch.

How to Serve Moist Banana Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel and Vanilla Glaze Recipe

A round cake with a thick, light brown crumbly top layer sprinkled all over with uneven clusters, drizzled with a thin white icing in a zigzag pattern. Below this, there is a single, dense, medium brown cake layer that looks soft and moist. The cake is placed on a white plate with a slightly curved edge, sitting on a wooden surface with a silver knife next to it. The background is a blurred dark brown wall, and the overall theme is simple and warm. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your cake’s visual appeal by sprinkling a bit of cinnamon powder or crushed walnuts on top of the vanilla glaze. Fresh banana slices or a light dusting of powdered sugar also make delightful accents without overpowering the flavors.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai tea to bring out its warm cinnamon notes. For a richer brunch, consider serving with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream on the side.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, try layering slices of the banana coffee cake with mascarpone or cream cheese frosting to create a beautiful cake stack. Or serve individual portions with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This cake stays fresh and moist when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerated for up to four days. To enjoy at its best, bring it back to room temperature before serving.

Freezing

You can freeze whole or sliced banana coffee cake, tightly wrapped in plastic and aluminum foil or sealed in a freezer bag. It’s best used within 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven to revive that fresh-baked feeling. A quick reheat brings back the moistness with just a hint of crispiness from the streusel.

FAQs

Can I use ripe but not overly brown bananas for this recipe?

For the best flavor and sweetness, it’s ideal to use bananas that are very ripe with lots of brown speckles. This ensures the cake is moist and packed with banana flavor. Less ripe bananas might make the cake less sweet and less moist.

Is it okay to substitute sour cream with yogurt?

Yes, plain Greek yogurt can be used as a substitute for sour cream in equal amounts. It still adds moisture and a slight tang, keeping your banana coffee cake wonderfully tender.

How long does the cake take to cool before glazing?

Let the cake cool completely in the pan, about one hour, so the glaze doesn’t melt immediately when drizzled on top. Patience here gives you that perfect shiny glaze finish.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Using a 1-to-1 gluten-free flour blend will work well, though the texture might be slightly different. Make sure your baking soda and other ingredients are also gluten-free.

What if I don’t have a springform pan?

You can bake this cake in a 9-inch round cake pan; just grease and flour it well. However, the sides won’t release as easily, so be extra careful when removing the cake and glazing.

Final Thoughts

I truly encourage you to make this Moist Banana Coffee Cake with Cinnamon Streusel and Vanilla Glaze Recipe soon—it’s one of those irresistible treats that brings warmth and smiles at any time of day. Whether for sharing with loved ones or savoring solo with your morning coffee, this cake never fails to delight. Happy baking, and enjoy every delicious, moist bite!