Coconut Banana Cake with Chocolate Frosting.

Coconut Banana Cake with Chocolate Frosting is a delightful dessert that perfectly marries the tropical flavor of coconut with the sweetness of ripe bananas. As you slice into this moist cake, the rich chocolate frosting adds a decadent layer that takes it over the top. This recipe is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Why Cooks Rave About It

The beauty of Coconut Banana Cake with Chocolate Frosting lies in its simplicity and the delightful combination of ingredients. Cooks rave about this cake because it uses ripe bananas that offer natural sweetness, making it a healthier dessert option. The addition of shredded coconut brings a chewy texture and tropical flair, while the chocolate frosting adds a rich, creamy finish. It’s a cake that works for any occasion, from birthdays to brunches, and it’s sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredient List

• 6 ripe bananas, peel on
• 1 cup canola oil
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice
• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup shredded sweetened coconut
• 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
• 2 sticks butter, at room temperature
• 1 1/2-2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup canned coconut cream

Setup & Equipment

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C).
• Mixing bowls: For wet and dry ingredients.
• Electric mixer: For creamy frosting.
• 9×13 inch baking pan: For the cake.
• Cooling rack: To cool the cake.
• Spatula: For spreading frosting evenly.

Cooking Coconut Banana Cake with Chocolate Frosting.: The Process

Step 1: Prepare the Bananas

Begin by placing the ripe bananas in a large bowl. With a fork or potato masher, mash them until they are smooth. The peel can be left on while mashing for easier handling. Once mashed, set aside.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a separate mixing bowl, combine the canola oil, plain Greek yogurt, and eggs. Use an electric mixer to blend them well. Add the granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and lemon juice, mixing until everything is well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, fold the mashed bananas into the wet mixture. In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and kosher salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 4: Add Coconut

Gently fold in the shredded sweetened coconut into the batter, ensuring an even distribution throughout.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13 inch baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a cooling rack.

Step 6: Make the Chocolate Frosting

While the cake is cooling, prepare the chocolate frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing until fully incorporated. Pour in the coconut cream and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the chocolate frosting generously over the top using a spatula. For an extra touch, sprinkle additional shredded coconut on top of the frosting.

Tailor It to Your Diet

• For a gluten-free version, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• To reduce sugar, opt for a sugar substitute or reduce the amounts of granulated and brown sugar used.
• For a vegan option, replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, use a plant-based yogurt, and substitute butter with coconut oil.
• To make it dairy-free, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative and coconut-based yogurt.

What I Learned Testing

Testing the Coconut Banana Cake with Chocolate Frosting taught me a few valuable lessons. The ripeness of the bananas is crucial for achieving the perfect sweetness and moisture level in the cake. Additionally, incorporating the coconut adds a delightful texture that complements the soft, fluffy cake. I also discovered that letting the cake cool completely before frosting prevents the frosting from melting and sliding off. Lastly, this cake holds up beautifully over a few days, maintaining its flavor and moisture.

How to Store & Reheat

To store the Coconut Banana Cake, keep it covered at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it, where it can last up to a week. When ready to serve, you can enjoy it as is, or gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for a cozy, warm dessert experience.

Quick Q&A

Can I use frozen bananas in this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.

How can I make the cake more chocolatey?

For an extra chocolate flavor, you can add chocolate chips to the batter or increase the amount of cocoa powder in the frosting.

Is there a way to make this cake more visually appealing?

Absolutely! Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut, chocolate shavings, or even fresh fruit like banana slices on top of the frosting.

What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the rich flavors.

Serve with These

• Vanilla Ice Cream
• Whipped Cream
• Fresh Fruit Salad
• Coconut Milk Shake

See You at the Table

Coconut Banana Cake with Chocolate Frosting is more than just a dessert; it’s an experience that brings people together. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a standout treat that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you bake it for a special occasion or simply as a sweet indulgence, this cake is sure to delight. So grab those ripe bananas and get ready to whip up a cake that is as delicious as it is beautiful. Enjoy every slice!