Banana Bliss Cake
Decadent Banana Dream Cake with Luscious Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 medium bananas)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
For the frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the banana mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Fold in the chopped walnuts, if using.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes Kcal: 430 kcal per serving | Servings: 12 servings
Notes:
- Banana Ripeness: For best results, use very ripe bananas. They are sweeter and more flavorful, which enhances the overall taste of the cake.
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1.5 teaspoons of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Walnut Options: Walnuts are optional in this recipe. You can omit them or replace them with pecans for a different flavor.
- Storing: This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. Make sure it’s covered to keep it moist.
- Freezing: Both the cake and frosting freeze well. Wrap the cake layers separately in plastic wrap and freeze. Thaw and then apply fresh frosting for best taste.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use a different type of frosting?
- Yes, while cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with the banana flavor, you can use buttercream or chocolate frosting if you prefer.
- Can I make this cake gluten-free?
- Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix. Make sure to check that all other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
- Can I add chocolate chips to the cake?
- Absolutely! Adding chocolate chips can give an extra layer of sweetness and texture. Fold in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips into the batter if desired.
- How do I know when the cake is done baking?
- The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Can I make cupcakes with this recipe?
- Yes, this batter will work well for cupcakes. Fill cupcake liners two-thirds full and adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes.
If you have more specific questions or need further clarifications, feel free to ask!