3 Simple Banana Cake Recipes You'll Love

Delve into the delightful world of baking with these three simple banana cake recipes that anyone can make. Whether you're a novice in the kitchen or an experienced baker looking to add something sweet and easy to your repertoire, banana cakes are the perfect choice. Their versatility allows for variations in flavor and texture, making them suitable for various occasions from a cozy Sunday brunch to a grand birthday celebration.

Classic Banana Cake Recipe

Here’s how to make a traditional banana cake that’s soft, moist, and loaded with the delicious taste of ripe bananas:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/2 cup of butter, softened
• 1/2 cup of sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup of buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking pan.
2. Combine the mashed bananas with buttermilk, set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour and baking soda.
4. Cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract.
5. Alternate adding the dry ingredients with the banana mixture into the creamed butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

⚠️ Note: If you don't have buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes to mimic the acidity.

Vegan Banana Chocolate Cake

Offering an indulgent treat for those on a plant-based diet, here’s a vegan version of banana cake:

• 3 overripe bananas, mashed
• 2 cups of flour (consider using whole wheat for added nutrition)
• 1 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of cocoa powder
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/4 cup of vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon of vinegar
• 1 cup of warm water
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Steps:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x9 inch baking dish with oil.
2. Whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the mashed bananas, oil, vinegar, warm water, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix until well combined.
4. Pour the batter into the baking dish.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is firm and a toothpick test comes out clean.
6. Cool in the pan before slicing.

Banana Nut Crunch Cake

Create a cake that offers a delightful crunch with every bite:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 cups of all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups of brown sugar
• 3/4 cup of butter, melted
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon of baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
3. Combine the wet ingredients: bananas, sugar, melted butter, and eggs.
4. Gradually mix the dry into the wet, then fold in the nuts.
5. Transfer to the loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick test comes out clean.
6. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

💡 Note: You can also use other nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for a different flavor profile.

In the end, what we've discovered is a trio of simple yet delectable banana cake recipes that cater to various tastes and dietary needs. From the classic to the vegan and the crunchy banana nut cake, each recipe offers a unique experience but all share the heartwarming flavor of ripe bananas. Baking these cakes at home not only fills your house with the aroma of freshly baked goods but also provides an opportunity to explore new culinary paths with the convenience of minimal, common ingredients. Whether you're baking for a special event or simply craving a sweet treat, these recipes are sure to deliver satisfaction and joy to anyone who tries them.

Can I use frozen bananas for these recipes?

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Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just let them thaw first and drain any excess liquid to adjust the texture of the batter.

How do I store banana cake?

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Store your banana cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for longer shelf life.

Are these recipes suitable for high altitude baking?

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Yes, but you might need to adjust the leavening agents and possibly increase the baking time slightly. Start checking the cake for doneness earlier than the suggested time.