Moist Banana Cake Recipe | Easy & Delicious Dessert
Banana cake is a timeless dessert that brings comfort and flavor to any home. It’s perfect for using up ripe bananas and impressing guests with its rich, moist texture. Whether you're a passionate home baker, a cake enthusiast, or simply someone with a sweet tooth, this recipe will guide you through making a banana cake that's sure to be a hit.
With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is designed for bakers of all skill levels. Let's get baking and elevate your dessert game with the ultimate banana cake!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Cake
Before we get into the recipe, here’s why this banana cake is nothing short of amazing:
- Moist and flavorful – Packed with the natural sweetness and aroma of ripe bananas.
- Easy to make – Minimal ingredients and simple steps mean you’ll have it on the table in no time.
- Adaptable – Add your twist with a variety of toppings or mix-ins, like chocolate chips or nuts.
- Perfect for any occasion – Birthdays, brunches, or late-night cravings? This cake fits the bill!
Now that you're convinced, grab those spotty bananas sitting on your counter, and let's make magic happen.
Ingredients for Banana Cake
To keep things simple, this recipe uses pantry staples you probably already have. Here’s everything you need:
For the cake:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
- ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil (or melted butter)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk
Optional toppings/mix-ins:
- Chopped walnuts or pecans
- Chocolate chips
- Cream cheese frosting (recipe included below)
Pro Tip:
The secret to a moist and flavorful banana cake lies in using super-ripe. Is. The blacker the peel, the sweeter and more aromatic the cake will be.
How to Make Banana Cake (Step-by-Step)
Step 1 – Prepare your baking essentials
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9x13-inch baking pan (or two 9-inch round pans for layer cakes) with parchment paper.
Step 2 – Mix your dry ingredients.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.
Step 3 – Mash bananas and combine wet ingredients
Using a fork, mash your bananas in a large mixing bowl until smooth. Add the granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Beat in the eggs one at a time until the mixture is well combined.
Step 4 – 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 to ensure a smooth batter. Be careful not to overmix—this can make your cake dense.
Step 5 – Bake to perfection
Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. If using round pans, check for doneness around the 30-minute mark.
Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Optional Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
While this cake is incredible on its own, adding cream cheese frosting takes it to the next level. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
- 4 cups (500g) powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
- Beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the powdered sugar gradually, one cup at a time, mixing until fully combined.
- Stir in the vanilla extract and beat for another 2-3 minutes, until fluffy.
- Spread the frosting generously over the cooled cake, and top with walnuts or a dusting of cinnamon if desired.
Customization Ideas
Add Mix-ins:
- Chocolate lovers can fold in a handful of dark chocolate chips.
- For a nutty texture, mix in chopped walnuts or pecans.
Top it Off:
- Drizzle with salted caramel for a decadent twist.
- Sprinkle shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
Healthier Swaps:
- Substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Use Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk for extra protein.
Storage Tips
To keep your banana cake fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store the cake (unfrosted) in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Frosted cake can be refrigerated for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
- Freezer: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw and enjoy!
Why Banana Cake is a Must-Try
Banana cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s a comforting slice of joy. Its uniquely moist texture, paired with sweet banana flavor, makes it a perennial favorite. Whether you’re whipping it up for a party or a mid-week treat, this recipe is guaranteed to delight anyone who takes a bite.
Plus, the ingredients are approachable, and the steps are simple enough for even beginner bakers. Once you try it, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen!
Bake Your Best Banana Cake Today 🎂
There’s no time like the present to turn those ripe bananas into something magical. This banana cake recipe is foolproof and promises delicious results every time. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or looking to try something new, the rich flavor and tender crumb of this cake will leave you coming back for seconds (or thirds!).
Have fun baking, and don’t forget to share your creations by tagging us on social media. Happy baking!
