Combining irresistible textures with delicious flavor, this Banana Cuca (a traditional German-style crumb cake) is the perfect choice for your afternoon coffee or tea. The contrast between the buttery, crispy streusel topping, the tender crumb, and the melt-in-your-mouth bananas makes this recipe a true delight.
Ingredients:
- 3.5 tbsp (50g) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup whole milk
- 3 tsp baking powder
- 6 ripe Cavendish bananas, peeled and sliced into rounds
How to Prepare Banana Cuca:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- Prepare the crispy streusel: In a bowl, mix ¾ cup sugar, ¾ cup all-purpose flour, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Add 3.5 tbsp (50g) of cold, cubed butter and press the mixture with your fingers until it forms a coarse crumble. Set aside.
- In a stand mixer, beat the softened butter with 1 ½ cups of sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Alternately add the flour and milk to the mixture, starting and ending with the flour. Mix until just combined.
- Add the baking powder and fold gently.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan and level the surface.
- Arrange the banana slices evenly over the batter.
- Sprinkle the prepared streusel generously over the bananas.
- Lightly pat the surface to help create those classic crunchy crumbles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 40 minutes, or until the streusel is golden brown.
- Enjoy!
Pro Tip:
To ensure the streusel topping is perfectly crispy and golden, follow the indicated baking time and keep an eye on the color of the crust.
Fun Fact:
The “Cuca” is a traditional German dessert brought to Southern Brazil by immigrants. It is famous for its many variations, such as apple, grape, and of course, banana. The name “cuca” comes from the German word “kuchen,” meaning “cake.” It has captured hearts worldwide and is the perfect treat for afternoon tea or as a dessert after a special meal.
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