Strawberry coffee cake with mashed banana and strawberry chunks is a moist and flavorful treat that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the fresh, juicy burst of strawberries in every bite. This homemade coffee cake recipe delivers a soft, tender crumb that’s perfect for breakfast, brunch, or an afternoon snack.
Ripe bananas add incredible moisture and a subtle richness to the batter, while juicy chunks of fresh strawberries create bright, fruity bursts in every bite. The cake is soft, tender, and just sweet enough - perfect with a morning coffee or as a light afternoon treat.
Whether you're baking for brunch, sharing with friends, or just treating yourself, this simple yet irresistible cake brings together classic comfort with a fresh, fruity twist.
Table of Contents
- What is Strawberry Coffee Cake?
- Why You'll Love This Recipe
- What You Need to Make Strawberry Coffee Cake
- How to Make Strawberry Banana Coffee Cake
- Tips for Making the Best Strawberry Coffee Cake
- Substitutions and Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How to Store Leftovers
- More Recipes You'll Enjoy
- Recipe Card
- Strawberry Coffee Cake (with Banana and Strawberry Chunks)
- Comments
What is Strawberry Coffee Cake?
Strawberry coffee cake is a type of cake coffee cake that features the delicious flavor of fresh strawberries with everything we love about coffee cakes. It’s typically served as a breakfast or brunch treat, but can also be enjoyed as a dessert.
The delicious ingredients used in this cake add a beautiful flavor in each bite. Plus, the bright red color of the strawberries adds a vibrant and appealing element to the dish. It’s truly a delicious treat that is perfect for enjoying with a cup of coffee or tea and I’m sure you’re going to love it!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Delicious: This strawberry banana coffee cake recipe is bursting with the sweet and tangy flavor of fresh strawberries. The combination of a moist cake base and chunks of flour-coated strawberries creates a delightful treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
- Easy: With a simple list of ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is a breeze to make. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner in the kitchen, you can easily whip up this cake and impress your friends and family.
- Versatile: It can be enjoyed for breakfast, brunch, or as a dessert. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee in the morning or can be dressed up with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a special treat.
- Crowd-pleaser: This cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering or potluck. Its vibrant strawberry flavor and appealing presentation make it a crowd-pleasing dessert that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
- Special: What sets the recipe apart is the use of fresh, ripe strawberries. The natural sweetness and juiciness of the strawberries take this cake to the next level, elevating it from a regular coffee cake to a truly special and memorable treat.
What You Need to Make Strawberry Coffee Cake
All you need are some simple pantry staple ingredients to make this strawberry coffee cake recipe at home. Let's look at them in more detail:
- Strawberries: We will be using some fresh strawberries to make this recipe. They will add a burst of sweetness and a pop of color to the dish.
- Bananas: We’ll also need some ripe bananas. They will provide natural sweetness and moisture to the final product.
- Extra-large eggs: Remember to use extra-large eggs in this recipe. They will help bind the ingredients together and add richness to the batter.
- Sugar: Prepare to add sugar to sweeten the dish. It will enhance the flavors and give a caramelized touch to the crust.
- Melted unsalted butter: We will also be using some melted unsalted butter in this recipe. It will make the dish moist and add a rich, buttery flavor.
- Vanilla extract: We will be adding vanilla extract to enhance the flavors. It will give a subtle fragrance and depth to the dish.
- Salt: We will use salt to balance the sweetness of the other ingredients. It will enhance the flavors and bring out the natural sweetness.
- Baking soda: Also, it is a good idea to use some baking soda to help the dish rise. It will create a light and airy texture.
- Baking powder: We will be using some baking powder to further leaven the dish. It will give a fluffy and tender texture to the final product.
- All-purpose flour: We will also need all-purpose flour to provide structure to the dish. It will give a soft and tender crumb.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): Lastly, we will be using powdered sugar to dust over the finished dish. It will add a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation.
How to Make Strawberry Banana Coffee Cake
Making this incredible strawberry coffee cake is easier than you think. Here's how to make them at home step by step:
How to Prep the Ingredients
Start by preparing the ingredients. Cut the butter into small pieces and place them into a small bowl. Melt the butter in the microwave for 30 seconds, then repeat the process for another 30 seconds.
This will make sure that the butter melts evenly without overheating. Set the melted butter aside and let it cool.
Rinse the strawberries and dice them into small pieces.
Peel the bananas and place them into a separate bowl. Use a hand mixer to beat the bananas until they are smooth and creamy.
Sift 4 cups of flour into a bowl. Make sure to reserve ¼ cup of flour to coat the strawberries later. Add salt, baking powder, and baking soda to the sifted flour. Mix all the dry ingredients together until they are well combined. Set the flour mixture aside until you are ready to use it.
Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together on high speed for 5 minutes. This will help to incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cake.
Reduce the speed of your mixer to low and slowly pour in the melted butter. Add vanilla extract and the mashed bananas to the mixture. Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat for an additional 30 seconds. This will guarantee that all of the ingredients are well incorporated.
Reduce the stand mixer speed back to low and gradually add the flour mixture, one cup at a time. Mix well after each addition to make sure that the flour is fully incorporated into the batter.
Take the reserved ¼ cup of flour and coat the diced strawberries. This will help to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking. Gently fold the flour-coated strawberries into the batter using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
How to Bake Strawberry Coffee Cake
Line two 9x12 baking pans with parchment paper. Pour the batter evenly into the pans, spreading it out with a spatula to guarantee an even bake.
Place both pans into the preheated oven and bake at 350°F for approximately 45 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cakes are ready to be removed from the oven.
Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 5 minutes. This will help them to set and firm up before removing them from the pans. After 5 minutes, carefully remove the cakes from the pans and transfer them to a cooling rack. Allow the cakes to cool for an additional 15 minutes before slicing.
Dust each cake with powdered sugar. This will add a touch of sweetness and create an attractive appearance.
Cut each cake into equal 15 pieces. For a prettier presentation, you can place each piece of cake onto cupcake liners.
Arrange the cakes on a platter and enjoy! Serve them as a delightful treat for any occasion.
Your delicious strawberry coffee cake is ready to be served!
For a full list of ingredients and instructions, see the recipe card below.
Tips for Making the Best Strawberry Coffee Cake
- Preheat the oven: Preheating the oven is an important step to make sure that the coffee cake bakes evenly and is cooked through. It also helps to create a golden crust on the top of the cake.
- Use fresh strawberries: Using fresh strawberries will give the coffee cake a vibrant and juicy flavor. Be sure to wash and dry the strawberries before slicing them.
- Cream the butter and sugar: Creaming the butter and sugar together creates a light and fluffy texture in the cake. It is important to beat them together until they are well combined and the mixture is pale and creamy.
- Fold in the strawberries gently: When adding the sliced strawberries to the batter, it is important to fold them in gently. This will help to distribute the strawberries evenly throughout the cake without crushing them. Alternatively, you can place strawberries evenly over the top of batter.
- Allow to cool before serving: After baking, it is important to allow the coffee cake to cool before serving. This will help to set the cake and make it easier to slice. Serve the coffee cake warm or at room temperature for the best taste.
Substitutions and Variations
Fruit substitutions: If fresh strawberries aren’t available, try using frozen strawberries (thawed and drained) or substitute with other berries like blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries. You can also swap in diced peaches or cherries for a different fruity twist.
Banana alternatives: Instead of mashed banana, you can use unsweetened applesauce or mashed pumpkin to keep the cake moist and add a subtle flavor variation.
Flour options: For a gluten-free version, substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure to check if additional binding agents like xanthan gum are needed.
Sweetener swaps: Use honey, maple syrup, or coconut sugar instead of granulated sugar for a different sweetness profile and a touch of natural flavor.
Add-ins: For extra texture and flavor, try adding chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), shredded coconut, or a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Topping variations: Instead of a traditional streusel or crumble, you could top the cake with a light glaze made from powdered sugar and lemon juice, or a dollop of whipped cream and fresh strawberry slices.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the Strawberry Coffee Cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a deliciously indulgent treat.
- Pair the cake with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast or afternoon snack.
- For a more elegant presentation, dust the top of the cake with powdered sugar and garnish with fresh strawberries.
- Cut the cake into small squares or slices and serve as part of a brunch spread or dessert platter.
- You can also cut layers of this delicious cake and add whipped cream or your favorite buttercream on top by using an offset spatula.
- Turn the coffee cake into a delicious dessert by serving it with a drizzle of strawberry sauce and a sprinkle of crushed nuts or granola on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes! Frozen strawberries work well -just thaw and drain them before adding to prevent excess moisture that could affect the cake texture.
Use ripe bananas with plenty of brown spots for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and adjust baking time if needed.
Yes, simply replace butter with a dairy-free alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter, and use plant-based milk instead of regular milk.
Yes, chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans add a nice crunch. You can also mix in shredded coconut or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor.
Yes, you can make this strawberry coffee cake ahead of time. Just store it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the fridge for up to 3 days.
How to Store Leftovers
To store leftovers of the strawberry banana coffee cake, start by allowing it to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To thaw the cake, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to an hour. If desired, you can lightly warm individual slices in the microwave or oven before serving.
If you want to freeze the cake, it is best to do so before adding any toppings or glaze. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, making sure it is fully covered to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
However, it is important to note that the texture and quality of the cake may change slightly after freezing and thawing. The moisture in the cake may be affected, making it slightly drier.
Recipe Card
Strawberry Coffee Cake (with Banana and Strawberry Chunks)
Ingredients
- 3 lbs. fresh strawberries
- 4 large bananas
- 5 extra large eggs
- 1 ½ cups sugar
- 1 cup unsalted melted butter
- 1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
- ¼ tsp. salt
- 1 tsp. baking soda
- 1 tsp. baking powder
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
How to Prep the Ingredients
- Start by preparing the ingredients. Cut the butter into small pieces and place them into a small bowl. Melt the butter in the microwave for 30 seconds, then repeat the process for another 30 seconds.
- This will make sure that the butter melts evenly without overheating. Set the melted butter aside and let it cool.
- Rinse the strawberries and dice them into small pieces.
- Peel the bananas and place them into a separate bowl. Use a hand mixer to beat the bananas until they are smooth and creamy.
- Sift 4 cups of flour into a bowl. Make sure to reserve ¼ cup of flour to coat the strawberries later. Add salt, baking powder, and baking soda to the sifted flour. Mix all the dry ingredients together until they are well combined. Set the flour mixture aside until you are ready to use it.
How to Make Strawberry Coffee Cake Batter
- Preheat your oven to 350°F. In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together on high speed for 5 minutes. This will help to incorporate air into the mixture, resulting in a lighter and fluffier cake.
- Reduce the speed of your mixer to low and slowly pour in the melted butter. Add vanilla extract and the mashed bananas to the mixture. Increase the mixer speed to medium and beat for an additional 30 seconds. This will guarantee that all of the ingredients are well incorporated.
- Reduce the stand mixer speed back to low and gradually add the flour mixture, one cup at a time. Mix well after each addition to make sure that the flour is fully incorporated into the batter.
- Take the reserved ¼ cup of flour and coat the diced strawberries. This will help to prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake during baking. Gently fold the flour-coated strawberries into the batter using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
How to Bake Strawberry Coffee Cake
- Line two 9x12 baking pans with parchment paper. Pour the batter evenly into the pans, spreading it out with a spatula to guarantee an even bake.
- Place both pans into the preheated oven and bake at 350°F for approximately 45 minutes, or until the cakes are golden brown. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, the cakes are ready to be removed from the oven.
- Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 5 minutes. This will help them to set and firm up before removing them from the pans. After 5 minutes, carefully remove the cakes from the pans and transfer them to a cooling rack. Allow the cakes to cool for an additional 15 minutes before slicing.
- Dust each cake with powdered sugar. This will add a touch of sweetness and create an attractive appearance.
- Cut each cake into equal 15 pieces. For a prettier presentation, you can place each piece of cake onto cupcake liners.
- Arrange the cakes on a platter and enjoy! Serve them as a delightful treat for any occasion.
Notes
Thank you for following me on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest!
This recipe was originally posted on April 11, 2016 (original picture below), and updated for a better user experience. The post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure.
Mary Ann says
wondering if frozen strawberries can be used
www.valyastasteofhome.com says
I have not used frozen strawberries so not really sure. I think that frozen fruit will make it the cake too watery. If you ever try making it with frozen strawberries, please do let me know how it turns out. Thanks!
Mary Ann says
will do!
Nat says
My daughter favorite
www.valyastasteofhome.com says
My kids love it as well. So simple to make, yet tastes delicious!
Inesa L says
Was very Delicious! made this recipe Friday and Was gone Saturday night!!
valya'stasteofhome.com says
We make it pretty often especially when we have strawberries in the garden. It's so quick and easy to make and truly delicious. Great dessert to make on those busy days or if you don't feel like baking something fancy. I'm glad your family like it. 😉
Tzivia says
Hello valya darlin greetings from bk ny yo love how you updated your blog really very cool and very inviting mmmmm wow love the combination of strawberries and bananas especially in smoothies and yogurt but omg this cake looks really sooooo eye catching and tantalizing making my mouth water right now lol on my to bake list after Passover also wondering if I can add a little milk to give it some moisture
valya'stasteofhome.com says
They are already really moist from huge amount of strawberries in it. If you add milk you need to add more flour. Thank you for sweet words. 🙂
Tzivia says
Oh okay thanx for the tip hun I think I'll just skip the adding a little milk part anytime love your story about making it in America really beautiful
valya'stasteofhome.com says
You are welcome 😉
Yana says
Made this today and loved how simple the recipe is! I halved the recipe while keeping the same measurements for the baking powder, soda, salt, & vanilla. Came out perfect!
valya'stasteofhome.com says
I'm so happy to hear that. I love simple recipes like this one too, especially handy for busy days. 🙂