04 May 2025
Cook time 35 min
Prep time 20 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 eggs
3 bananas
1 cup self-raising flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/3 cup milk (1% fat)
Banana cake is a timeless classic that combines the natural sweetness and moist texture of ripe bananas with a soft, buttery cake. This moist banana cake recipe is simple to follow and guarantees a delicious treat that's perfect for any occasion, be it a family gathering, a special celebration, or a casual weekend bake.
Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8x8-inch or 9x9-inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
2. Prepare the Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the Vanilla and Eggs:
Add the vanilla extract to the butter and sugar mixture. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a smooth and cohesive batter.
4. Mash and Incorporate the Bananas:
In a separate bowl, mash the bananas thoroughly using a fork or potato masher until smooth. Add the mashed bananas to the batter and mix until fully combined.
5. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In another bowl, whisk together the self-raising flour and baking soda. This ensures that the baking soda is evenly distributed throughout the flour.
6. Mix in Dry Ingredients and Milk:
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet batter, alternating with the milk. Start with a portion of the flour mixture, then add some milk, and continue this process until all the flour mixture and milk are incorporated. Mix just until combined; overmixing can result in a denser cake.
7. Pour Batter into Pan:
Pour the prepared batter into the greased and floured (or parchment-lined) baking pan. Spread the batter evenly using a spatula.
8. Bake the Cake:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The top of the cake should be golden brown and slightly springy to the touch.
9. Cool the Cake:
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. Serve:
Once the cake has cooled, cut it into squares or slices and serve. Enjoy your delicious banana cake plain or with a dollop of whipped cream, a drizzle of caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
Tips:
- Ensure your bananas are ripe with brown spots on the peel for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Cream the butter and sugar thoroughly to incorporate air, which helps the cake rise and achieve a light texture.
- Mash the bananas well to avoid lumps that can affect the cake texture.
- Do not overmix the batter once you add the flour; mix just until combined to keep the cake tender.
- Check the cake for doneness using a toothpick; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Once baked, this banana cake is best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature. The combination of ripe bananas and buttery, cake-y goodness will make every bite a delight. Whether served plain or with a light dusting of powdered sugar, or even a dollop of cream, it's sure to become a favorite among family and friends.