Embrace the comforting sweetness of ripe bananas with this delectable Banana Cake recipe. Bursting with natural flavor and moist texture, this cake is a delightful way to make use of overripe bananas. Whether enjoyed as a simple snack, a comforting dessert, or a treat for any occasion, each slice is a heavenly indulgence that will have you coming back for more. Let the aroma of bananas fill your kitchen and embark on a culinary journey to banana bliss with this irresistible Banana Cake recipe.
Ingredients:
For the Banana Cake:
- 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 pure vanilla extract
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the Cream Cheese Frosting (optional):
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the mashed bananas to the butter mixture, mixing until well incorporated.
- Alternately add the dry ingredients and the buttermilk to the banana mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan(s) and spread it out evenly with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes for a 9×13-inch pan or 30 to 35 minutes for round cake pans, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan(s) for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting (if using). In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until smooth and fluffy.
- Once the cake is completely cooled, frost it with the cream cheese frosting, spreading it evenly over the top and sides of the cake.
- Slice and serve this moist and flavorful Banana Cake as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of cinnamon for added indulgence.
Conclusion: With its rich banana flavor and moist texture, this Banana Cake is a true delight for banana lovers everywhere. Whether enjoyed as a comforting snack or a special dessert, it’s sure to satisfy your sweet cravings and leave you craving more. So grab those ripe bananas, preheat your oven, and get ready to experience the irresistible allure of this homemade Banana Cake that’s sure to become a family favorite.