Banana Coke Cake might sound like an odd combination, but the marriage of sweet, ripe bananas with the fizzy sweetness of Coca-Cola creates a moist, flavorful dessert that is sure to delight your taste buds. This recipe brings an innovative twist to traditional banana desserts, offering a fun and unique treat that’s perfect for family gatherings, parties, or simply satisfying your sweet tooth. The simplicity of the ingredients and the ease of preparation make it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced bakers. Let’s dive into this intriguing and delicious Banana Coke Cake recipe.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 can (12 oz) Coca-Cola
- 1 box yellow cake mix
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream (for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
Start by peeling and slicing 4 ripe bananas. Choose bananas that are fully ripe, with brown spots, as they are sweeter and more flavorful. Arrange the banana slices in an even layer at the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
Step 2: Add Coca-Cola
Open a can of Coca-Cola and pour it evenly over the banana slices in the baking dish. The Coca-Cola will soak into the bananas, adding a unique flavor and moisture to the cake as it bakes.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, 3 large eggs, 1/2 cup vegetable oil, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. If you’d like to add a hint of spice, mix in 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Use an electric mixer to blend the ingredients together until the batter is smooth and well combined.
Step 4: Combine and Bake
Pour the cake batter over the banana and Coca-Cola mixture in the baking dish. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the cake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 5: Cool and Serve
Once the cake is done baking, remove it from the oven and allow it to cool in the baking dish for about 15-20 minutes. This cooling time helps the flavors to meld together. Serve slices of the Banana Coke Cake warm, topped with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
Cooking Notes
- Banana Selection: Make sure to use ripe bananas for this recipe. They should have brown spots on the skin, indicating that they are sweet and flavorful.
- Cake Mix: Using a boxed cake mix simplifies the preparation process, but you can also use your favorite homemade yellow cake recipe if you prefer.
- Coca-Cola: The Coca-Cola adds a unique sweetness and moisture to the cake. For a different flavor profile, you can experiment with other sodas like Dr. Pepper or root beer.
- Optional Add-ins: For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in some chopped nuts or chocolate chips into the cake batter.
Variations
- Chocolate Banana Coke Cake: Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the cake batter for a chocolatey twist. You can also sprinkle some chocolate chips over the banana slices before pouring in the Coca-Cola.
- Spiced Banana Coke Cake: Increase the amount of cinnamon to 1 teaspoon and add a pinch of nutmeg and cloves to the cake batter for a spiced version that’s perfect for fall.
- Tropical Banana Coke Cake: Mix some shredded coconut into the cake batter and top the finished cake with a drizzle of coconut glaze for a tropical flair.
Keto Version
Creating a keto-friendly version of this cake involves some significant modifications. Replace the bananas with a lower-carb fruit like raspberries or blackberries, use a keto-friendly sweetened soda, and opt for almond flour or coconut flour in place of the cake mix. Ensure that all ingredients are low-carb and sugar-free to maintain ketosis.
Low Carb Version
For a lower-carb version, reduce the amount of bananas used and mix them with a lower-carb fruit. Use a diet soda instead of regular Coca-Cola, and opt for a low-carb cake mix or make your own using almond flour and a sugar substitute.
Banana Coke Cake is a whimsical and delightful dessert that combines familiar flavors in an unexpected way. The result is a moist, flavorful cake that’s sure to impress both kids and adults alike. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just to try something new, this cake is easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. With its unique combination of bananas and Coca-Cola, this recipe brings a fun twist to traditional desserts, making it a memorable addition to your baking repertoire. Enjoy the process of creating this unique treat and savor the delicious results with friends and family.
