Easy Banana Cake

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Are you ready to indulge in a delightful dessert that combines the sweet, comforting flavors of ripe bananas with a fluffy, moist cake? This Easy Banana Cake is a delicious treat that pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea. It’s simple to make, requires minimal ingredients, and comes together in no time. Whether you’re using up overripe bananas or simply craving a slice of cake, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your home.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Banana cake is a classic that brings back fond memories of baking in the kitchen with family. The combination of bananas, sugar, and spices creates a warm, comforting aroma as it bakes. This recipe strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and moisture, ensuring that each bite is tender and fulfilling. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.

Ingredients

To make this scrumptious Easy Banana Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 medium bananas, mashed
• ½ cup (100 g) granulated sugar
• ¼ cup (50 g) light brown sugar
• ½ cup (113 g) unsalted butter, at room temperature
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon (5 ml) pure vanilla extract
• 1 ½ cups (360 ml) milk, at room temperature
• 3 cups (360 ml) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves
• ½ teaspoon salt

How To Make Easy Banana Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Bananas

In a large mixing bowl, mash the 4 medium bananas until smooth. You want to get rid of any large chunks, so feel free to use a fork or a potato masher for this task.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

In another bowl, cream together the unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. The air incorporated into the butter and sugars will give your cake that beautiful rise.

Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the 3 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the 1 teaspoon of pure vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 5: Mix in the Mashed Bananas

Gently fold the mashed bananas into the butter, sugar, and egg mixture. Make sure everything is well combined but avoid overmixing.

Step 6: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground cloves, and salt. This step ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the flour.

Step 7: Alternate Dry Ingredients and Milk

Gradually add the dry mixture to the banana mixture, alternating with the 1 ½ cups of milk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined; it’s okay if there are a few lumps—overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

Step 8: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it in the last few minutes to avoid overbaking.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and serve plain, or feel free to top it with whipped cream, fresh fruit, or your favorite frosting!

Expert Tips

• Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. The more spotty and brown they are, the better!
• Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing.
• Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Store leftover cake in an airtight container to keep it moist for several days.

Variations and Customizations

• Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
• Incorporate 1 cup of chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
• Replace some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
• Frost the cake with cream cheese frosting for extra indulgence.

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Easy Banana Cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake by wrapping it in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil, storing for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator before serving.

FAQ

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Frozen bananas can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that the blend contains a binding agent, such as xanthan gum, for better texture.

How can I make the cake more flavorful?

Try adding in a teaspoon of almond extract or a tablespoon of lemon juice to enhance the flavors. You could also mix in some shredded coconut for a tropical twist!

Can I make this cake in advance?

Certainly! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just remember to store it in an airtight container to maintain its moisture. Frost it just before serving for the best presentation.

Conclusion

This Easy Banana Cake recipe is not just an ordinary cake; it’s a sweet delight that’s perfect for any occasion. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, it’s a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Whether enjoyed plain or dressed up with frosting, this cake is a testament to the beauty of homemade baking. So gather your ingredients, invite a friend or family member to join, and dive into the joy of baking this scrumptious treat. Happy baking!

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