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Brown Butter Banana Coffee Cake

Brown Butter Banana Coffee Cake: A Cozy, Flavor-Packed Treat

This Brown Butter Banana Coffee Cake combines ripe bananas with the rich flavor of brown butter, creating a moist and fluffy dessert perfect for any occasion.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Cooling Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 25 minutes
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Desserts
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Streusel Topping
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides structure; standard flour works best.
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar Adds sweetness and moisture; can be substituted with granulated sugar for less moisture.
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon Infuses flavor; adjust based on personal preference.
  • 1/2 cup very soft salted butter Binds ingredients together while adding flavor; unsalted butter can be used, adding a pinch of salt if desired.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Mixture
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar Offers sweetness; can substitute with granulated sugar if needed.
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon Enhances flavor; adjust for a stronger or lighter taste.
  • 2 tbsp cocoa powder Adds depth and color; optional for a more chocolatey flavor.
For the Cake Batter
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour Provides structure; use spoon-and-level method for accuracy.
  • 1 tbsp baking powder Serves as a leavening agent; ensure freshness.
  • 1 tsp baking soda Works as a leavening agent; pairs well with acidic elements.
  • 1/2 tsp salt Balances sweetness; essential for flavor enhancement.
  • 3 medium mashed bananas Use very ripe bananas for the best taste.
  • 1 cup packed light brown sugar Adds sweetness and moisture.
  • 1 large egg Acts as a binding agent; use at room temperature.
  • 1/2 cup full-fat sour cream Contributes moisture and richness; may substitute with Greek yogurt.
  • 1/2 cup browned unsalted butter Introduces a deep flavor; follow browning techniques.
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract Enhances flavor; choose high-quality vanilla for the best impact.
For the Vanilla Glaze
  • 1 cup powdered confectioner’s sugar Provides sweetness; sifting may prevent lumps.
  • 2 tbsp whole milk Creates a thin consistency for glazing; substitute with any milk alternative.
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon Offers additional flavor.

Equipment

  • 8x8 inch baking pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Saucepan

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare an 8x8-inch baking pan by lining it with parchment paper.
  2. In a small saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, packed light brown sugar, and ground cinnamon for the streusel topping; rub in soft salted butter.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix packed light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and optional cocoa powder for the cinnamon sugar mixture.
  5. Whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a large bowl.
  6. In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas and add brown sugar, egg, sour cream, cooled browned butter, and vanilla extract; whisk until smooth.
  7. Spread two-thirds of the cake batter evenly into the prepared pan, sprinkle with cinnamon sugar mixture, dollop the remaining batter on top, and add the streusel topping.
  8. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes; check for doneness with a toothpick.
  9. Once baked, cool the cake completely on a wire rack before glazing.
  10. For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, milk, and ground cinnamon until smooth, then drizzle over the cooled cake.

Nutrition

Serving: 1sliceCalories: 250kcalCarbohydrates: 32gProtein: 3gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 7gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1gSugar: 15gVitamin A: 100IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 1mg

Notes

Use very ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor; they will make your cake incredibly moist.

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