Banana Walnut Cake

There’s something beautifully comforting about the aroma of a warm cake baking in the oven. It whispers promises of warmth and sweetness, transporting me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where every meal was sewn together with love and laughter. One cherished recipe that captured our hearts was her Banana Walnut Cake. Each slice was a perfectly moist embrace filled with the rustic crunch of walnuts and the sweetness of ripe bananas. As the simple combined flavors melded into a delicious baked delight, I knew I had to share this treasure with all of you!

Recipe Timing

• Prep Duration: 15 minutes
• Active Cooking: 35 minutes
• Total Duration: 50 minutes
• Portion Size: Serves 8
• Complexity: Simple

Nutritional Recipe

• Calories per portion: Approximately 290
• Protein: 4g
• Carbs: 40g
• Fats: 12g
• Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 20g
• Sodium: 180mg

Why You’ll Love This Banana Walnut Cake

This Banana Walnut Cake isn’t just a dessert; it’s an experience! Each bite combines the moistness of perfectly ripe bananas with the nutty crunch of walnuts, creating a harmony of flavors that feels familiar yet delightfully indulgent. The task of baking might seem daunting, but I assure you, this recipe walks you through each simple step, making it accessible even for beginners. Plus, the option to frost with cream cheese elevates this cake into a delightful treat that can stand proudly on any celebration table.

The Complete Cooking Journey

Let’s embark on this cozy baking journey together! From the moment you start mashing bananas to the last frosting swipe, you’ll find joy in the process. Whether you’re making this cake for a special occasion or simply to brighten your regular Tuesday, I promise it will fill your home with heartwarming scents and happy memories.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup walnuts, chopped
• Cream cheese frosting (optional)

Method:

### Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

### Step 2: Creaming Butter and Sugar

In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

### Step 3: Incorporating Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.

### Step 4: Adding Bananas

Mix in the mashed bananas until well combined.

### Step 5: Whisking Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

### Step 6: Combining Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined.

### Step 7: Folding in Walnuts

Stir in the chopped walnuts.

### Step 8: Preparing for Baking

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top.

### Step 9: Baking the Cake

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

### Step 10: Cooling the Cake

Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

### Step 11: Optional Frosting

If desired, frost with cream cheese frosting before serving.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This cake is delightfully versatile. Serve it warm, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with a generous layer of cream cheese frosting. Pair it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert. It’s perfect for afternoon tea, a birthday celebration, or simply as a comforting treat after dinner.

Storage & Leftovers Guide

If by some miracle you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Alternatively, you can refrigerate it, where it will last about a week. If you choose to frost it, it may be best to keep it in the fridge to maintain the frosting’s integrity.

Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips

1. Choose Ripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are very ripe; the darker the skin, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
2. Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
3. Chop Walnuts Well: Aim for a mix of big and small pieces of walnuts to avoid overwhelming bites while still adding texture.

Flavor Variations & Adaptations

Feel free to experiment! Add chocolate chips for a sweet twist or a dash of cinnamon for warmth. You can even swap half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition.

Reader Questions & Solutions

1. My cake turned out dry. What went wrong?
   – This might happen if you overbake it. Make sure to check for doneness with a toothpick – it should come out clean but not dry.

2. Can I use frozen bananas?
   – Yes! Just thaw them and drain any excess moisture before mashing.

3. What if I don’t have walnuts?
   – You can substitute them with pecans, or if nut-free, just omit them altogether.

4. How can I tell if my baking powder and soda are still good?
   – You can test baking powder by mixing it with water; it should fizz. Baking soda should bubble when mixed with vinegar.

5. Is cream cheese frosting hard to make?
   – Not at all! Just beat cream cheese with butter, add powdered sugar, and a splash of vanilla until smooth. It’s easy and so delicious!

Wrapping Up

There’s something magical about baking a Banana Walnut Cake that fills not just your kitchen but also your heart with warmth. It’s more than just a recipe; it’s about gathering loved ones around a table with laughter and delicious memories. Whether you’re familiar with this cake or trying it for the first time, I encourage you to roll up your sleeves and embrace the joy of baking. Happy baking, everyone!

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