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Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake

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This luscious vanilla banana walnut cake is a delightful fusion of moist banana goodness, warm vanilla aroma, and the crunch of walnuts. Perfect for celebrations or a cozy tea-time treat, this cake is easy to make and sure to please every palate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Combines the sweet richness of bananas with the crunch of walnuts.
  • Warm vanilla flavor adds a comforting touch.
  • Moist and tender texture makes it a crowd favorite.
  • Perfect for any occasion – birthdays, gatherings, or a simple dessert craving.
  • Easy to customize with your favorite nuts or add-ins.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Ripe bananas
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Unsalted butter
  • Eggs
  • Vanilla extract
  • Chopped walnuts
  • Buttermilk or yogurt

Directions

this recipe
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
  2. In a bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Set aside.
  3. Whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  4. In another bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  5. Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
  6. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk or yogurt.
  7. Fold in the mashed bananas and chopped walnuts.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  9. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Servings and Timing

  • Servings: Serves 8-10 slices
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes

Variations

  • Chocolate Chips: Add a handful of chocolate chips for extra sweetness.
  • Coconut Twist: Stir in shredded coconut for a tropical flavor.
  • No Nuts: Omit the walnuts for a nut-free version.
  • Spiced Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm, cozy undertones.
  • Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend for a celiac-friendly cake.

Storage/Reheating

  • Storage: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  • Freezing: Wrap slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  • Reheating: Warm a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a freshly baked feel.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Yes, overripe bananas are perfect for this cake as they add natural sweetness and moisture.

Can I substitute walnuts with another nut?

Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or hazelnuts work well too.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can use yogurt or make a buttermilk substitute by mixing milk with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

Can I make this cake vegan?

Yes, substitute eggs with flax eggs, butter with vegan butter, and buttermilk with plant-based yogurt.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan thoroughly and dust it with flour, or use parchment paper.

Can I add frosting to this cake?

Sure! Cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla glaze would pair beautifully.

What’s the best way to mash bananas?

Use a fork or a potato masher for a smooth consistency.

Can I bake this in a loaf pan?

Yes, but the baking time will increase slightly. Check for doneness with a toothpick.

How do I make the cake extra moist?

Ensure you don’t overmix the batter and use ripe bananas for added moisture.

Can I add dried fruits to the cake?

Yes, raisins or chopped dates make a great addition to this recipe.

Conclusion

The luscious vanilla banana walnut cake is a classic treat that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat. With its moist texture, rich banana flavor, and crunchy walnut topping, it’s perfect for any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors and textures!

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Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake

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  • Author: clara
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Chill Time: 35 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
  • Yield: 12–16 servings 1x
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American
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Description

This Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake is moist, flavorful, and filled with the goodness of ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting or enjoyed plain, it’s the perfect dessert or tea-time treat!

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Cake:

  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
  • 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
  • 1 cup chopped walnuts

For the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):

  • 8 oz cream cheese (softened)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (for garnish)

Instructions

Make the Cake:

  1. Preheat and Prepare the Pan:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 8-inch round cake pans.
  2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
    • In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
  4. Combine the Wet Ingredients:
    • Add the mashed bananas to the butter mixture and mix until well combined.
  5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
  6. Fold in Walnuts:
    • Gently fold in the chopped walnuts.
  7. Bake the Cake:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared pan(s) and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes (for a 9×13 pan) or 25-30 minutes (for round pans), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting (Optional):

  1. Prepare the Frosting:
    • Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until fully incorporated. Stir in the vanilla extract.
  2. Frost the Cake:
    • Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Sprinkle chopped walnuts on top for garnish.

Notes

  • Use toasted walnuts for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Substitute pecans or almonds if preferred.
  • For a healthier version, replace half the butter with applesauce and use whole wheat flour.

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