Learn how to make this delicious banana cake recipe that I learned from my aunts last Christmas. It’s so simple and yet so tasty.
Banana cake is a delightful treat that strikes a perfect balance between moistness, sweetness, and richness. It’s the perfect way to use up overripe bananas, creating a soft, flavorful cake that’s sure to please.
This article will guide you step-by-step through a classic banana cake recipe that’s easy to follow and produces delicious results every time.
Banana Cake Recipe
Ingredients
For the cake:
- 1 ½ cups of ripe bananas (about 3-4 medium bananas), mashed
- 2 teaspoons of lemon juice
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
For the frosting (optional):
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons heavy cream (as needed for consistency)
Instructions for banana cake recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper.
Step 2: Prepare the Bananas
In a small bowl, mash the bananas and mix them with the lemon juice. Set aside.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients need to be evenly mixed to ensure the cake rises well.
Step 4: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial to incorporating air into the batter, making your cake tender.
Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated. Add the vanilla extract and continue to mix.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Finally, fold in the mashed bananas.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Be sure to check the cake at around 50 minutes to avoid overbaking.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frosting (Optional)
While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese until smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream one tablespoon at a time until you reach the desired consistency.
Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. If desired, decorate with sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon.
Serving and Storing
This banana cake recipe can be served immediately or chilled for a denser texture. It’s perfect as a dessert or a snack, and pairs beautifully with a cup of tea or coffee.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. You can also freeze the cake (frosted or unfrosted) for up to three months.
Tips for Success of banana cake recipe
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the more flavor and sweetness they bring to the cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake. Mix until just combined.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smooth batter, ensure the butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature.
- Customize Your Cake: Add mix-ins like chopped walnuts, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut for extra texture and flavor.
This banana cake recipe is a tried-and-true favorite, delivering a moist and flavorful cake that’s hard to resist.
Whether you’re making it for a family gathering, a bake sale, or simply as a treat for yourself, this cake is bound to be a hit. Enjoy baking and savor every bite of this scrumptious dessert!
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