Banana Cake Recipe

Banana cake is a moist, flavorful dessert made with ripe bananas. It’s a simple, delicious way to use overripe bananas and turn them into a sweet treat. The cake is often spongy with a slight banana flavor, making it a favorite among dessert lovers.

This cake can be plain or topped with frosting, like cream cheese or chocolate. It’s perfect for any occasion, from a casual family gathering to a special celebration.

Ingredient Notes for a Banana Cake Recipe

Here’s a simple list of ingredients you’ll need to make a delicious banana cake:

• Bananas: Use ripe bananas to give the cake a natural sweetness and moist texture. The more ripe, the better!
• All-purpose flour: This is the base of your cake. It provides the structure and texture needed.
• Sugar: Sweeten the cake with regular granulated sugar. It will help balance the flavor of the bananas.
• Baking powder: This helps the cake rise, giving it a light and airy texture.
• Baking soda: Works with the acidic banana to help the cake rise and create a soft crumb.
• Salt: A pinch of salt will enhance the sweetness and balance the overall flavor.
• Butter: Butter adds richness and moisture to the cake, creating a smooth and soft texture.
• Eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and add structure to the cake.
• Vanilla extract: This adds a hint of flavor and deepens the overall taste of the cake.
• Milk: A little milk will smooth the batter and give the cake a perfect consistency.

How to Make Banana Cake Recipe

Ingredients

To make this banana cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup buttermilk or whole milk
• ¼ cup sour cream (optional for extra moisture)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare Wet Ingredients: Using an electric mixer, cream together the butter and sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Mix Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry and wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Start with the dry ingredients and end with the milk, mixing until just combined. If you’re using sour cream, fold it in at this point.
5. Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes clean.
6. Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Banana Cake Recipe Variation

You can easily customize banana cake to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:

• Banana Nut Cake: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture that complements the soft cake.
• Chocolate Banana Cake: Add cocoa powder or chocolate chips for a chocolatey twist on the classic banana flavor.
• Vegan Banana Cake: For a vegan-friendly version, replace eggs with flaxseed or chia seeds and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
• Spiced Banana Cake: Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to bring out a warm, comforting flavor that pairs well with the banana.

How to Serve Banana Cake Recipe

Banana cake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a variety of toppings to enhance its flavor:

Frosting: Cream cheese frosting works wonderfully with banana cake, adding a creamy and tangy flavor that balances the sweetness.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream is perfect for a lighter, fluffier option.

Ice Cream: For an indulgent treat, serve a slice of banana cake with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream.

Fresh Fruits: Top with sliced bananas, berries, or even a drizzle of honey for added freshness and flavor.

Storage Tips

To keep your banana cake fresh, follow these storage tips:

Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 2-3 days.

Refrigeration: If you have leftover cake, refrigerate it to extend its shelf life. Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It should stay fresh for about 5-7 days.

Freezing: For more extended storage, freeze your banana cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or heat in the microwave for a few seconds.

FAQs About Banana Cake Recipe