This Banana Pudding Cake is a delightful twist on the classic banana pudding, combining the rich flavors of a buttery cake with the creamy, nostalgic taste of banana pudding. It’s a perfect dessert for any occasion, whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a potluck, or just enjoying it at home. The cake is soft and moist, with layers of creamy vanilla pudding, fresh bananas, and whipped topping, making each bite a sweet treat.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup butter, softened and unsalted: Adds richness and moisture to the cake.
- 1 ⅔ cups granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake perfectly, balancing the flavors.
- 3 large eggs: Provide structure and help the cake rise.
- 2 egg whites: Add lightness and fluffiness to the cake texture.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a warm, aromatic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Ensures the cake rises well and has a light, fluffy texture.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure and substance.
- 1 box (approximately 3.4 oz) sugar-free banana pudding mix: Adds a subtle banana flavor throughout the cake.
- 1 cup milk: Moistens the batter and helps the ingredients combine smoothly.
For the Filling:
- 1 box (approximately 3.4 oz) sugar-free vanilla pudding mix: Provides a creamy, sweet filling that complements the banana flavor.
- 1 ⅓ cups milk: Used to prepare the vanilla pudding filling.
- 1 cup Cool Whip, defrosted: Adds lightness and fluffiness to the filling, making it creamy and smooth.
- 2 large bananas, sliced: Fresh bananas add a natural sweetness and enhance the banana flavor of the cake.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the 1 cup of softened butter and 1 ⅔ cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the 3 large eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then add the 2 egg whites and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, mixing until combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the 3 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 tablespoon of baking powder, and 1 box of sugar-free banana pudding mix.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with 1 cup of milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined and smooth.
3. Bake the Cake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove them from the pans and transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Filling:
- While the cakes are cooling, prepare the filling. In a medium bowl, whisk together the 1 box of sugar-free vanilla pudding mix and 1 ⅓ cups of milk until thickened and smooth.
- Gently fold in the 1 cup of defrosted Cool Whip until well combined and fluffy.
- Slice the 2 large bananas into thin rounds and set aside.
5. Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand.
- Spread half of the vanilla pudding mixture over the top of the first cake layer, smoothing it out evenly with a spatula.
- Arrange half of the banana slices on top of the pudding layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top, and spread the remaining vanilla pudding mixture over the top.
- Arrange the remaining banana slices on top of the pudding layer.
6. Chill and Serve:
- For best results, refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cake to firm up slightly.
- Before serving, you can garnish the cake with additional whipped topping or banana slices if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Make it Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to serve. The flavors will develop even more as it sits.
- Topping Ideas: Consider adding crushed vanilla wafers or a drizzle of caramel sauce on top for extra texture and flavor.
- Pudding Mix Options: If you prefer a more intense banana flavor, you can use banana-flavored pudding mix for the filling instead of vanilla.
This Banana Pudding Cake is a delightful and indulgent dessert that combines the best of both worlds: the classic flavors of banana pudding and the satisfying texture of a layered cake. The balance of sweet, creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and tender cake makes this dessert a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether for a special occasion or just a sweet treat, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Enjoy!
