Introduction
Who doesn’t love a dessert that brings both comfort and joy with every bite? Banana cake is one of those magical treats that can turn overripe bananas into a slice of heaven. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or someone just starting their baking journey, this banana cake recipe is perfect for you. It’s simple, easy to follow, and guarantees delicious results every single time. Imagine a moist, fluffy cake infused with the natural sweetness of bananas — it’s no wonder this dessert is a crowd favorite!
In this article, we’ll guide you step-by-step on how to make the best banana cake recipe from scratch. You’ll also discover expert tips, ingredient substitutions, and creative variations to make this recipe uniquely yours.
Recipe Card
Banana Cake Recipe
Description: A moist, fluffy banana cake that’s incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Serve it plain, with frosting, or even a dusting of powdered sugar!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 12
Calories: 280 per serving
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Serve plain, with frosting, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.
Notes:
- For a nutty twist, add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- Ensure the bananas are fully ripe for maximum flavor.
Nutrition Information:
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Protein: 4g
- Sugar: 24g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Easy to Make: This banana cake recipe uses simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.
- Moist and Fluffy Texture: The combination of ripe bananas and buttermilk ensures a perfectly soft cake every time.
- Versatile: Enjoy it plain, dress it up with cream cheese frosting, or add chocolate chips for a fun twist.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual snack or a festive dessert, banana cake is always a hit.
- Budget-Friendly: Transform overripe bananas into a delicious dessert without breaking the bank.
Key Ingredients and Substitutions
- Ripe Bananas: The star of the show! The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake will be. If you’re short on ripe bananas, you can speed up the process by placing them in a 300°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
- Buttermilk: This adds moisture and a slight tang to the cake. If you don’t have buttermilk, substitute with ½ cup of regular milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
- Brown Sugar: Adds depth and richness to the cake’s flavor. If you don’t have brown sugar, you can use all granulated sugar, but the flavor may be slightly less complex.
- Butter: For a richer taste, use unsalted butter. If you prefer a dairy-free option, coconut oil works well too.
How to Make Banana Cake (Step-by-Step)
- Mash the Bananas: Begin by mashing your ripe bananas until smooth. A fork or potato masher works perfectly for this.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This step is crucial for a tender cake texture.
- Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the oven and bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool and Decorate: Let the cake cool completely before adding any frosting or toppings.
Expert Tips for Success
- Measure Ingredients Correctly: Use measuring cups and spoons for accurate measurements. Over-measuring flour can lead to a dense cake.
- Don’t Overmix: Once the dry ingredients are added, mix until just combined to avoid a tough texture.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
- Use Parchment Paper: Lining your pan with parchment paper makes it easier to remove the cake without sticking.
Variations and Customizations
- Dietary Adjustments: Swap regular flour for gluten-free flour or use a flax egg instead of regular eggs for a vegan option.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor. A handful of chocolate chips or shredded coconut also works beautifully.
- Frosting Options: Top the cake with cream cheese frosting, caramel drizzle, or even a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Room Temperature: Store the banana cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: If you’ve added frosting, refrigerate the cake for up to 5 days. Allow it to come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
- Reheating: Warm a slice in the microwave for 10-15 seconds for that freshly baked feel.
Serving Suggestions
This banana cake is delightful on its own, but here are some ideas to elevate your dessert:
- Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream and a drizzle of honey.
- Enjoy alongside a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy afternoon treat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to make banana cake recipe?
Making banana cake is simple! Start by mashing ripe bananas and creaming butter with sugar. Mix in eggs and dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Bake at 350°F for 40-45 minutes, and enjoy a moist, delicious cake.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw the bananas and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
No worries! Mix ½ cup of regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely. Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour for best results.
Related Recipes
If you loved this banana cake recipe, here are some other recipes you might enjoy:
- Banana Bread: A classic recipe that’s perfect for breakfast or a snack.
- Carrot Cake: Moist and spiced, this is another crowd-pleaser.
- Chocolate Chip Banana Muffins: Bite-sized treats that are perfect for on-the-go.
Conclusion
Banana cake is the ultimate comfort dessert that’s easy to make and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to use up overripe bananas, this recipe is sure to impress. With its moist texture and rich banana flavor, it’s a treat that everyone will love. So, preheat your oven, grab those ripe bananas, and get baking! Don’t forget to share your results and let us know how it turned out. Happy baking!