Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl

There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of warm banana coffee cake with cream cheese swirl, especially when it’s made in a delightful 19.5/10-inch 16-cup capacity angel food cake pan. The moist, tender crumb combined with the rich cream cheese layer creates a delightful balance that pairs perfectly with your morning coffee or an afternoon tea. In this recipe, you’ll find a medley of flavors that will have your taste buds dancing. Let’s dive into the details of this delicious treat!

Reasons to Love Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl

There are countless reasons to fall in love with this banana coffee cake. Here are just a few:

• Moist and Flavorful: The bananas and cream cheese add moisture and rich flavor.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake fits right in.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a breeze to whip up.
• Customizable: Add nuts or chocolate chips according to your preference!
• Impressive Presentation: Baking in a large angel food cake pan gives it a beautiful shape.

The Ingredient Lineup

Gather these ingredients to create your own banana coffee cake with cream cheese swirl:

• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
• 1/2 cup flour (for streusel topping)
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon (for streusel topping)
• 4 tablespoons cold butter, cubed (for streusel topping)
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 cup butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup mashed bananas (about 2 large ripe bananas)
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/4 cups sour cream (not nonfat), at room temperature
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips (optional)
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup reserved batter (see instructions)
• 1/4 cup sugar (for cream cheese swirl)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for cream cheese swirl)
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for cream cheese swirl)
• 2 tablespoons milk (for cream cheese swirl)
• Garnish: mini chocolate chips (optional)

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start baking, make sure you have the following:

• 19.5/10-inch 16-cup capacity angel food cake pan – Perfect for achieving that tall, fluffy cake.
• Mixing bowls – For combining your ingredients efficiently.
• Electric mixer – Helps to achieve the perfect creamy texture for the batter and cream cheese swirl.
• Spatula – Ideal for folding in ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons – Essential for accurate ingredient measurement.
• Cooling rack – To cool your cake evenly after baking.

How to Prepare Banana Coffee Cake with Cream Cheese Swirl

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a medium bowl, combine 1/2 cup flour, 1/2 cup packed brown sugar, and 1/2 tablespoon cinnamon. Add in the cold, cubed butter and mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped walnuts if using. Set aside.

Step 3: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/4 teaspoons baking powder, 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. This will ensure that your dry ingredients are well mixed.

Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In another bowl, using an electric mixer, cream together 1/2 cup softened butter and 1 1/2 cups sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 5: Add the Eggs and Bananas

Add the 2 large eggs (at room temperature), 1 cup mashed bananas, and 1 tablespoon vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Beat until well combined.

Step 6: Incorporate the Sour Cream

Mix in 1 1/4 cups sour cream until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

Step 7: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl

In a separate bowl, beat together 8 ounces softened cream cheese, 1/4 cup reserved batter, 1/4 cup sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Add the powdered sugar and milk, mixing until creamy.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake

Pour half of the banana batter into the prepared angel food cake pan. Next, add dollops of the cream cheese mixture over the batter. Swirl it in gently with a knife. Pour the remaining banana batter on top and finish with the streusel topping.

Step 10: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 55-65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it toward the end of the baking time.

Step 11: Cool the Cake

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a cooling rack to cool completely.

Smart Substitutions

If you’re looking to make some adjustments, consider these substitutions:

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier flavor.
• Replace the walnuts with pecans or omit them altogether for a nut-free version.
• Use almond milk instead of regular milk in the cream cheese swirl.
• If you prefer a dairy-free option, substitute butter with a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free chocolate chips.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Even the best bakers make mistakes! Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

• Overmixing the Batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
• Not Using Ripe Bananas: Less ripe bananas will not provide the same sweetness and moisture. Always use well-ripened bananas.
• Not Preheating the Oven: Baking in an unheated oven can affect the texture. Always preheat for even baking.
• Underbaking: Make sure to test with a toothpick to avoid a gooey center. Bake until the toothpick comes out clean.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To keep your banana coffee cake with cream cheese swirl fresh, consider these tips:

• Storing: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to enjoy it slightly warm.

FAQ

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour, but the texture may be denser. Consider using a mix of both for a lighter cake.

Is it okay to add more bananas?

Adding more bananas can make the cake even more moist, but be cautious not to exceed 1 1/2 cups, as it may affect the structure.

Can I make this cake in advance?

Absolutely! This banana coffee cake actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it properly.

What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs well with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or simply a cup of your favorite coffee!

Weekend Projects

If you enjoyed making this banana coffee cake with cream cheese swirl, here are some more weekend projects you might love:

• Sally’s Baking Addiction – Explore more delicious baking recipes.
• Pinch of Yum – Find a variety of wonderful meal ideas.
• Minimalist Baker – Check out simple, plant-based recipes.

Before You Go

Thank you for diving into this delightful recipe for banana coffee cake with cream cheese swirl! We hope this cake brings joy to your kitchen and fills your home with the warm aroma of baked bananas and cinnamon. Whether enjoying a slice with friends or savoring it alone with a cup of coffee, this cake is sure to become a favorite. Happy baking!