Delight your taste buds with the irresistible aroma and flavor of freshly baked Banana Cake. This moist and tender cake is a delightful way to use up ripe bananas and is sure to become a favorite in your baking repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply craving a sweet treat, this Banana Cake recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your dessert cravings. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, variations, and even provide keto and low-carb versions for those following specific dietary lifestyles.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or sour cream (or use buttermilk)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- 1/2 cup chocolate chips
Instructions
Preparing the Batter:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract, until well combined.
- Incorporate Mashed Bananas: Stir in the mashed bananas until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the plain yogurt or sour cream (or buttermilk), beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Fold in Optional Add-ins: Gently fold in any optional add-ins such as chopped nuts or chocolate chips, if desired.
Baking the Cake:
- Transfer Batter to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve.
Cook Notes and Variations
- Ripe Bananas: Use ripe bananas with brown spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Texture: For a denser texture, you can reduce the amount of leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) in the recipe.
- Glaze: Drizzle the cooled cake with a simple powdered sugar glaze or cream cheese frosting for added sweetness and flavor.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those following a keto or low-carb diet, here are some modifications you can make:
- Flour Substitute: Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or coconut flour for a lower-carb option.
- Sweetener: Use a keto-friendly sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of granulated sugar.
- Add-ins: Instead of chocolate chips or nuts, consider adding unsweetened shredded coconut or chopped sugar-free dark chocolate for added flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Freeze Banana Cake?
Yes, you can freeze banana cake for up to 3 months. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in an airtight container before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
Can I Use Frozen Bananas?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas in place of fresh bananas. Allow the frozen bananas to thaw completely before mashing and incorporating them into the batter.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes, you can make a vegan version of banana cake by using dairy-free butter, plant-based yogurt or buttermilk, and replacing the eggs with a vegan egg substitute or mashed banana.
How Should I Store Leftover Cake?
Store any leftover banana cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Warm individual slices in the microwave before serving, if desired.
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of homemade Banana Cake with this simple and delicious recipe. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this moist and flavorful cake is sure to please your taste buds. With easy-to-follow instructions, customizable add-ins, and keto and low-carb options, this Banana Cake recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels and dietary preferences. So grab your ripe bananas and get ready to bake up a batch of this heavenly treat that your family and friends will love!
