Indulge in the irresistible goodness of the Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the rich flavor of vanilla, and the crunch of walnuts to create a moist, flavorful, and decadent dessert. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is simple to make yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this easy-to-follow recipe will ensure success every time.
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup plain yogurt or buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for extra warmth)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oven and Pan:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9-inch round or rectangular baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. - Mash the Bananas:
Peel the ripe bananas and mash them in a bowl using a fork or potato masher until smooth. Set aside. - Cream Butter and Sugar:
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes. - Add Eggs and Vanilla:
Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract for a fragrant touch. - Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and optional cinnamon. This ensures the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed. - Incorporate the Wet Ingredients:
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the yogurt or buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined; avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb. - Fold in Bananas and Walnuts:
Gently fold the mashed bananas and chopped walnuts into the batter. Ensure they are evenly distributed for a consistent flavor in every bite. - Pour and Smooth:
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Tap the pan lightly on the counter to remove any air bubbles. - Bake to Perfection:
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake to avoid overbaking. - Cool and Serve:
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve as is or with a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Tips for Success:
- Use ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Toast the walnuts lightly before chopping to enhance their nuttiness.
- For an added twist, sprinkle chocolate chips on top before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days or freeze slices for a quick treat later.
This Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake is guaranteed to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy its perfect balance of flavors and textures with every bite!