Frequently Asked Questions
What is Banana Yogurt Streusel Coffee Cake?
It is a moist and tender fusion of banana bread and tangy coffee cake, featuring ripe bananas, Greek yogurt, and a buttery brown sugar streusel topping.
What is the recommended oven temperature for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
What size baking pan is required?
A 9x13 inch baking pan greased with butter is recommended.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe yields 16 generous servings.
Can I substitute the Greek yogurt?
The recipe calls for full-fat Greek yogurt to provide creaminess and tang, but you could likely substitute with sour cream for a similar texture.
What type of bananas should I use?
You should use three ripe bananas that are soft and easy to mash for the best flavor and moisture.
How do I prepare the streusel topping?
Melt 1/2 cup of butter and mix it with 2/3 cup brown sugar, 1 cup all-purpose flour, cinnamon, salt, and vanilla until large clumps form.
Why is the cake baked for 20 minutes before adding the streusel?
Baking the batter for 20 minutes before adding the streusel ensures the cake is firm enough to support the topping without it sinking to the bottom.
How long should I cream the butter and sugars?
You should cream the room temperature butter with the brown and white sugars for about 2-3 minutes until light and fluffy.
Is there a specific way to add the flour to the batter?
Yes, add the flour mixture gradually in two batches on low speed, mixing only until no flour streaks remain.
What is the total baking time?
The cake bakes for an initial 20 minutes, followed by an additional 22 to 25 minutes after the streusel is added.
How can I tell when the coffee cake is finished baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake springs back when touched.
How can I make the streusel topping extra crispy?
Move the cake to the top rack and broil it for 30 seconds to 1 minute, watching closely to prevent burning.
Should I sift the dry ingredients?
Yes, the recipe recommends sifting together the flours, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to ensure a smooth texture.
What kind of flour is used in this recipe?
The recipe uses a combination of all-purpose flour and cake flour for the batter, plus additional all-purpose flour for the streusel.
Can I use a hand mixer for this recipe?
Yes, the instructions specifically suggest using a hand mixer to cream the butter and sugars and to combine the banana-yogurt mixture.
When should I add the vanilla extract?
Vanilla is used twice: once in the streusel mixture and again in the banana-yogurt-egg mixture.
How should I cool the cake?
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before cutting and serving.
What should I put on top of the cake before serving?
A light dusting of powdered sugar is recommended before serving.
Is the batter thick or thin?
The batter will be quite thick after adding the flour mixture.
Can I use cold butter for the creaming step?
No, the butter for the cake batter should be at room temperature to ensure it creams properly with the sugars.
What purpose does the cake flour serve?
Cake flour has a lower protein content, which helps create a more tender and delicate crumb in the coffee cake.
How much cinnamon is used in total?
A total of 3 teaspoons of cinnamon is used: 1.5 teaspoons in the streusel and 1.5 teaspoons in the cake batter.
Do I need to grease the pan?
Yes, you should grease the 9x13 inch baking pan with butter before pouring in the batter.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes, the cake can be made ahead and stored, though it is best enjoyed fresh or once completely cooled.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any remaining cake in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator.
What is the role of the eggs?
The three eggs provide structure, leavening, and moisture to the cake.
Can I add nuts to this recipe?
While not in the original recipe, you could easily add chopped walnuts or pecans to the streusel topping for extra crunch.
Is this recipe suitable for breakfast?
Absolutely! It is described as ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a treat with coffee.
What makes this cake moist?
The combination of mashed ripe bananas, Greek yogurt, and a significant amount of butter ensures a very moist texture.