Description
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (for whipped cream)
- Extra walnuts for garnish
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures even baking, making that perfectly moist banana walnut cake a reality. While you wait for the oven to reach its cozy temperature, you can prepare your cake batter.
Grab a round cake pan, preferably 9 inches in diameter, and lightly grease it with butter or non-stick spray. For extra insurance against sticking, coat it with a dusting of flour. This little trick ensures that your cake slides out effortlessly, maintaining its beautiful shape.
Place your ripe bananas into a mixing bowl and mash them using a fork or potato masher. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your banana walnut cake will be. You’re looking for a smooth consistency, so don’t hesitate to really mash them up!
In a separate bowl, combine your mashed bananas with sugar, eggs, and melted butter. Whisk these ingredients together until they are well blended. The goal here is to create a silky-smooth mixture that embraces the bananas’ sweetness.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step is crucial because it ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed, giving your banana walnut cake that perfect rise.
Now it’s time to introduce the wet ingredients to the dry ones! Gently fold the dry mixture into the wet ingredients using a spatula. Be careful not to over mix – a few lumps are perfectly okay. This gentle mixing ensures a light and fluffy banana walnut cake that’s a joy to eat.
Chop your walnuts into small pieces and fold them gently into the batter. The crunch of walnuts pairs beautifully with the soft texture of the cake, adding a delightful contrast that elevates the flavors.
Pour your cake batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This is where the magic begins! As it bakes, the aromas will fill your home, making it nearly impossible to wait patiently.
Slide the pan into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. During this time, sit back and enjoy the tantalizing scents wafting through your space.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and serve your banana walnut cake as is, or with a dollop of cream for an extra indulgence!
Notes
Storage Tips
Your banana walnut cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This cake stays moist and delicious! If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Serving Suggestions
Elevate your banana walnut cake with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of powdered sugar on top. A scoop of vanilla ice cream complements your cake beautifully, creating a delightful dessert experience.
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to experiment! You can substitute half the flour with almond flour for a nutty flavor or add chocolate chips for a sweet twist. The beauty of the banana walnut cake is its versatility!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes