Banana cake is like a warm hug from your grandma on a chilly day. Picture this: a slice of moist, fluffy cake bursting with the sweet, comforting flavor of ripe bananas, topped with a creamy frosting that makes your taste buds sing. You can almost smell the aroma wafting through your kitchen, enticing everyone within a two-block radius to come running for a bite.
Now let me take you back to my childhood kitchen, where I discovered my love for baking. It was a rainy afternoon, and there I was, armed with mushy bananas and an insatiable craving for something sweet. Thatβs when I decided to whip up my first banana cake. The result? A delicious disaster that was more like banana pudding than cake. sheet pan pancakes recipe But hey, we all have to start somewhere! This delightful banana cake recipe is perfect for any occasionβbe it birthdays, brunches, or just because you want to indulge in something scrumptious.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This banana cake recipe is incredibly easy to make; even novice bakers can shine in the kitchen.
- The flavor profile balances the sweetness of bananas with just a hint of vanilla and cinnamon.
- Its golden-brown color makes it visually appealing and perfect for sharing at gatherings.
- Plus, you can serve it as breakfast or dessertβtalk about versatility!
Ingredients for banana cake recipe
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Bananas: The star of the show! Choose bananas that are well-ripened with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- All-Purpose Flour: A trusty staple that gives structure to your cake. Make sure itβs sifted for optimal fluffiness.
- Sugar: Granulated sugar adds sweetness and helps create that lovely caramelization on top.
- Baking Powder: This magical ingredient ensures your cake rises beautifully and remains light and airy.
- Butter: Use unsalted butter for richness; itβs the secret ingredient that adds depth to your flavor profile.
- Eggs: These little guys provide moisture and help bind everything together into a lovely batter.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds an aromatic touch that enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make banana cake recipe
For more inspiration, check out this pecan pie bars recipe recipe.
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease and flour a standard loaf pan or an 8-inch round cake pan. Donβt skip this step unless you want your masterpiece glued to the bottom of the pan!
Step 2: Mash Those Bananas
Grab those ripe bananas and mash them in a bowl until smooth; you want no chunks here unless youβre feeling rebellious. Set aside while you mix other ingredients.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffyβabout five minutes should do the trick. If it looks like whipped clouds, youβre on the right track!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in eggs one at a time along with vanilla extract until well combined. This mixture should resemble a creamy dreamβjust wait until you smell it!
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together flour and baking powder. Gradually add this dry mixture into your wet ingredients while folding gently; nobody wants tough banana cake!
Step 6: Fold in Mashed Bananas
Finally, fold in those mashed bananas until just combined. Pour the batter into your prepared pan and give it a gentle shakeβlike calming down an excited puppy before taking it out for a walk.
Transfer to plates and enjoy this slice of heaven drizzled with icing or topped with whipped cream if youβre feeling fancy! Your friends will be begging for the recipeβthey might even think youβre some sort of baking wizard.
And there you have it! A delightful banana cake recipe thatβs not only easy but also packed with nostalgia and flavor. Enjoy baking! For more inspiration, check out this easy air fryer cookies recipe.
You Must Know
- This delightful banana cake recipe is not just a treat for your taste buds; itβs also a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.
- With its moist texture and rich flavor, this cake is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating your oven to 350Β°F. Mash the bananas while the oven warms up, then mix the wet ingredients before combining them with the dry ones. Pour the batter into a greased pan and bake until golden brown, ensuring even cooking throughout.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to customize this banana cake recipe by adding nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch. You can swap regular flour for whole wheat flour or add chocolate chips for a sweet twist. banana chocolate chip muffins The options are endless!
Storing & Reheating
To keep your banana cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always use very ripe bananas; they provide the best flavor and sweetness.
- Avoid overmixing your batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Let the cake cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts and better presentation.
One time, I brought this banana cake recipe to a family gathering, and it disappeared faster than you can say βbanana split.β Everyone kept asking for the recipe, which made me feel like a baking rock star!
FAQs:
What ingredients do I need for a banana cake recipe?
To make a delicious banana cake, you will need ripe bananas, all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, eggs, unsalted butter, baking powder, baking soda, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. The ripe bananas are essential as they add natural sweetness and moisture to the cake. You can also consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Ensure you have everything ready before you start mixing to streamline your baking process.
How long does it take to bake a banana cake?
Typically, a banana cake takes about 45 to 60 minutes to bake in a preheated oven set at 350Β°F (175Β°C). Keep an eye on the cake during the last few minutes of baking. To check if itβs done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs attached, your banana cake is ready. Remember that baking times may vary depending on your oven and the size of your cake.
Can I use frozen bananas in my banana cake recipe?
Yes, you can absolutely use frozen bananas for your banana cake recipe! In fact, frozen bananas often become even sweeter and softer when thawed. Simply let them thaw completely before mashing them for your batter. This can be a great way to utilize ripe bananas you might not be able to use right away. Just ensure there is no excess liquid from thawing that may alter the consistency of your batter.
How should I store leftover banana cake?
To keep your leftover banana cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, consider refrigerating it where it can last up to a week. If you want to keep it even longer, freeze individual slices wrapped securely in plastic wrap and placed in an airtight container. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw at room temperature.
Conclusion for banana cake recipe:
In summary, this banana cake recipe is simple yet delightful, making it perfect for any occasion. By using ripe bananas and following straightforward steps, you can create a moist and flavorful dessert that everyone will love. dark chocolate recipes Donβt forget that incorporating variations like nuts or chocolate chips can enhance the taste further. Whether youβre serving it at a gathering or enjoying it at home, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with every bite!
Banana Cake
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves about 10 slices 1x
Description
Banana cake is a comforting dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a moist, fluffy texture. This easy-to-follow recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether youβre celebrating a birthday or simply indulging in a delicious treat. With its delightful aroma and rich flavor, this banana cake is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (about 1 Β½ cups mashed)
- 1 Β½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- Β½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Β½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing in the vanilla extract until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, then gently mix in the mashed bananas until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
