Moist and Crumbly Banana Crumb Cake Recipe

Whenever I have overripe bananas sitting on the counter, I see it as an opportunity to bake something comforting and cozy.

This time, instead of the usual banana bread, I turned them into this luscious Banana Crumb Cake, and let me tell you—it completely stole the show.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Moist and tender crumb – Thanks to the mashed bananas and melted butter.

Perfect balance of sweet and spice – A touch of cinnamon makes all the difference.

One bowl, no fuss – Easy to whip up with minimal cleanup.

Freezer-friendly – Make ahead and enjoy later.

Foolproof results – It bakes beautifully every time.

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Ripe bananas – The riper, the better. They add natural sweetness and moisture.

Butter – Used in both the crumb and the cake layers. Feel free to use vegan butter if needed.

Brown and granulated sugar – For depth of flavor and sweetness.

All-purpose flour – Provides the perfect cake structure.

Cinnamon – Adds warmth and pairs perfectly with banana.

Eggs & vanilla – For richness and classic cake flavor.

Almond milk – Or use dairy milk or buttermilk for a richer taste.

Pro Tips Before You Start

Make sure your bananas are very ripe with lots of brown spots.

Don’t overmix the batter—this keeps the cake light and fluffy.

Chill the crumb mixture while prepping the batter for a better texture.

Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick—it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.

Add the optional glaze only after the cake has slightly cooled to avoid melting it into the crumb topping.

How to Make the Best Banana Crumb Cake

Step 1: Prep the pan

Grease a 9″x13″ baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the crumb topping

In a large bowl, use a fork or your hands to mix cold butter cubes, flour, both sugars, and cinnamon.

Mix until it forms coarse crumbs.

Set aside or refrigerate while making the batter.

Step 3: Combine the dry ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Cream butter and sugar

In a stand mixer, beat softened butter until smooth.

Add the sugar and mix until fluffy. Then, add eggs, vanilla, and mashed bananas.

Mix until just combined—don’t overbeat.

Step 5: Alternate flour and milk

Lower the mixer speed.

Add the dry mixture in batches, alternating with milk, until everything is incorporated.

Step 6: Layer the batter and crumbs

Pour half the batter into the greased dish.

Sprinkle ⅓ of the crumb topping over it.

Pour in the remaining batter and top evenly with the rest of the crumb mixture.

Step 7: Bake

Bake at 350ºF for 50–55 minutes.

The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean.

Step 8: Make the glaze (optional)

Mix powdered sugar with 1–2 tablespoons almond milk until smooth and pourable.

Adjust milk for desired consistency.

Step 9: Cool and serve

Let the cake cool for 10 minutes.

Drizzle with glaze, slice, and serve warm or at room temperature.

What to Serve It With

A hot cup of coffee or chai latte

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream on top

A handful of fresh berries for a fruity contrast

Greek yogurt for a breakfast-worthy pairing

Variations / Substitutions

Make it dairy-free – Use vegan butter and plant-based milk.

Add nuts – Chopped walnuts or pecans in the batter or crumble.

Try chocolate chips – Fold in some semi-sweet chips for extra indulgence.

Spice it up – Add nutmeg or cloves for a bolder flavor profile.

Make muffins – Use a muffin tin and reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes.

Storage & Leftovers

Room temperature – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Refrigerator – Keeps well for up to 5 days.

Warm slices in the microwave before serving.

Freezer – Wrap individual slices and freeze up to 2 months.

Thaw overnight or microwave for a quick treat.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Is it possible to reduce the sugar?
You can cut back slightly, but sugar also affects texture.

Try reducing each by ¼ cup and taste test.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Make sure it includes xanthan gum.

What’s the best way to mash bananas?
Use a fork or potato masher for a slightly chunky texture.

Can I skip the glaze?
Absolutely. The cake is delicious on its own, but the glaze adds a pretty finish.

Can I make this in a smaller pan?
Yes, but you may need to adjust baking time. A smaller pan makes the cake thicker.

Can I use buttermilk instead of almond milk?
Yes! It will add extra moisture and a slight tang that complements the bananas.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Crumb Cake is one of those recipes you’ll find yourself making again and again.

It’s simple, delicious, and full of that nostalgic banana-baked-goodness we all love.

Whether you’re baking for guests, for a potluck, or just to treat yourself, this cake will never let you down.