Cranberry Banana Coffee Cake
I make this moist cake for Christmas morning every year. It tastes like banana bread but has a sweet golden topping with a nutty crunch.
I make this moist cake for Christmas morning every year. It tastes like banana bread but has a sweet golden topping with a nutty crunch.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup butter softened
- 2 tablespoons butter melted
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/2 cup sugar
- topping:
- 1 cup whole-berry cranberry sauce
- 2 medium ripe bananas mashed (about 3/4 cup)
- Carbohydrate 32.4455852376893 g
- Cholesterol 77.1709722438117 mg
- Fat 11.964215955149 g
- Fiber 1.51983278343361 g
- Protein 4.42904305733929 g
- Saturated Fat 5.60470500547144 g
- Serving Size 1 1 servings. (102g)
- Sodium 2177.49324454838 mg
- Sugar 30.9257524542557 g
- Trans Fat 0.972611922978828 g
- Calories 250 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs and vanilla.
- Combine the dry ingredients; add to the creamed mixture alternately with bananas, beating well after each addition.
- Spread into a greased 13x9-in. baking pan.
- Top with cranberry sauce.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, pecans and flour; stir in butter.
- Sprinkle over cranberries.
- Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool in pan on a wire rack.
My Christmas Morning Tradition: Cranberry Banana Coffee Cake
Christmas morning. The smell of pine needles, the soft glow of the tree lights, and the anticipation hanging heavy in the air. For me, this isn't complete without the comforting aroma of my Cranberry Banana Coffee Cake wafting from the oven. This recipe isn't just a cake; it's a tradition, a taste of home, a warm hug on the most magical day of the year.
It all started a few years ago when I was searching for a unique Christmas morning treat that was different from the usual pastries and breakfast casseroles. I wanted something moist, flavorful, and festive. That's when I stumbled upon a recipe that sounded promising—a coffee cake with a twist. I've adapted it over the years, adding my own personal touch, and now it's become the centerpiece of our Christmas breakfast.
The beauty of this cake lies in its simplicity. The moist banana bread base is incredibly easy to make, requiring ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The sweet and tart cranberry sauce provides a wonderful contrast to the banana's sweetness, while the crunchy pecan topping adds a delightful texture. The combination is simply irresistible. The cake is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy, soft and crunchy, making it a perfect way to start the festive day.
Beyond the delightful taste, the baking process itself is a joy. I love the feeling of creaming the butter and sugar together, watching the mixture lighten and fluff up. It's a meditative process, a moment of calm amidst the festive chaos. The aroma that fills the kitchen as the cake bakes is truly magical, drawing everyone in with its promise of deliciousness.
This cake isn't just for Christmas morning, though. It’s a versatile treat that shines any time of year. I've served it at brunch gatherings, potlucks, and even as a simple afternoon dessert. It's always a crowd-pleaser, earning compliments and requests for the recipe. The best part? It's surprisingly easy to transport, making it perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Making this Cranberry Banana Coffee Cake has become more than just baking; it's a cherished ritual. It's a way for me to connect with my family and friends, sharing a delicious treat and creating lasting memories. The joy on their faces as they savor the first bite is reward enough. This cake isn’t just a recipe; it’s a symbol of warmth, tradition, and the love that goes into making something special for those you care about most. It's a labor of love, from my kitchen to your heart.
So, this Christmas, or any time you need a touch of festive cheer, I urge you to try this cake. It's not just a recipe; it's an experience, a journey into a world of comforting flavors and heartwarming memories. Enjoy every delicious moment!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra moisture: Add a splash of milk or buttermilk to the batter.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the batter for a warm, festive flavor.
- Make it your own: Experiment with different types of nuts or dried fruits in the topping.
- Make it ahead: The cake can be baked a day or two in advance and stored at room temperature, tightly wrapped.
Happy baking!
