You are about to discover a delightful Banana Walnut Cake recipe, perfect for any occasion. This is one of those family favorite cake recipes that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to bake a moist, flavorful cake that’s surprisingly easy to make.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Ripe Bananas: Essential for sweetness and moisture. Use very ripe, speckled bananas for best flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend if needed.
- Walnuts: Adds a lovely crunch. You can use pecans or omit if you prefer.
- Brown Sugar: Provides deep molasses notes. Granulated sugar can be used in a pinch, but brown sugar is recommended.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 medium bananas)
- ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
Optional Topping (Cream Cheese Frosting):
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1-2 tablespoons milk (as needed for consistency)
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 12
- Calories per serving (without frosting): Approximately 280
- Tools Needed: 9×13 inch baking pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.
2. Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.
3. Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Combine Banana Mixture
Add the mashed bananas and sour cream (or yogurt) to the wet ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix this step.
5. Gently Combine Dry and Wet
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
6. Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and Frost
Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack. Once cool, if desired, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating all frosting ingredients together until smooth. Spread evenly over the cooled cake.
Variation Ideas
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for extra spice.
- Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips with the walnuts for a sweeter treat.
- Top with a simple dusting of powdered sugar instead of frosting for a lighter option.
- Bake in two 8-inch round pans for a layered cake (adjust baking time slightly).
Storage Instructions
Store leftover Banana Walnut Cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days. If frosted with cream cheese frosting, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Allow refrigerated cake to come to room temperature for the best flavor and texture before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw them first and drain any excess liquid. Very ripe, fresh bananas are ideal for the best flavor and texture.
Q2: What if I don’t have sour cream?
You can use plain full-fat yogurt as a direct substitute. It will still provide moisture and tenderness.
Q3: How do I know if my bananas are ripe enough?
Look for bananas with many brown spots and a soft texture. The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
Q4: Can this cake be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and frost it on the day of serving.
Q5: Is this recipe good for beginners?
Yes, this is a straightforward recipe, perfect for those new to baking. Just follow the steps carefully.
Q6: Can I freeze slices of this cake?
Yes, wrap individual unfrosted slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature.