Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake Recipe

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pans

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare the Pans: Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

1. Mash the Bananas: In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. Mix the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
2. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then add the vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Combine All Ingredients

1. Add Ingredients Together: Gradually add the dry mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the mashed bananas. Mix until just combined.
2. Fold in Walnuts: Gently fold in the chopped walnuts, being careful not to overmix the batter.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

1. Pour Batter into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Frost

1. Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting (optional): In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix in the powdered sugar gradually. Adjust the consistency with milk as needed.
3. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top (and sides, if desired).

Tips for Perfect Banana Walnut Cake

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for optimal sweetness.
• Toast the Walnuts: For an extra depth of flavor, consider toasting the walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the batter.
• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for longer freshness.

Why You Should Make This Cake

The Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a wonderful way to use up overripe bananas. This recipe is perfect for potlucks, birthday parties, or simply as a delightful dessert to enjoy at home. With its rich flavors and moist texture, this cake is bound to become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Conclusion

Indulging in a slice of Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake is like giving yourself a warm hug with every bite. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful choice for any occasion. So grab those ripe bananas and get ready to bake a cake that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Enjoy baking and savoring this delicious cake!