Introduction
There’s something truly delightful about the warm, comforting aroma of a fresh-baked cake wafting through your kitchen, and this Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake is sure to become a favorite in your home. Imagine sinking your teeth into a moist, fluffy slice filled with the soft sweetness of ripe bananas and the delightful crunch of walnuts, all topped with a luscious whipped cream that adds a touch of elegance. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a slice of bliss that brings people together, making every gathering a little bit sweeter.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large 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
- 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for the cream)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get your 9-inch round cake pan ready by greasing and flouring it.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a lovely base for your cake.
- Add the mashed bananas to the butter mixture, making sure to blend it well to incorporate that banana goodness.
- Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the elegant touch of vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, allowing the dry ingredients to come together beautifully.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until they are just combined – don’t overmix; we want a tender cake!
- Fold in the chopped walnuts, ensuring every bite is packed with their delightful crunch.
- Pour the luscious batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth out the surface with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While your cake is cooling, whip the heavy cream and powdered sugar in a separate bowl until soft peaks form, then stir in the vanilla extract for that extra flavor.
- Once the cake has cooled, generously spread the whipped cream over the top, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with additional walnuts for that extra touch.
Notes or Tips
For the best flavor, make sure your bananas are nicely ripe; the more spots, the better! You can also substitute the walnuts with pecans or omit them entirely for a nut-free version. This cake stays moist for several days, making it perfect for making ahead of a special occasion. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Cooking Techniques
Creating this cake is all about the balance of wet and dry ingredients. Remember to cream the sugar and butter until fluffy – this will incorporate air into the batter, giving you a lighter cake. When mixing in the dry ingredients, be gentle to avoid developing the gluten too much, which can lead to a dense cake. And of course, whipping the cream to soft peaks will ensure a light, airy topping that is the perfect complement to the rich banana cake.
FAQ
Can I freeze this cake? Yes! You can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in an airtight container.
What can I use instead of heavy cream? If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, you can use coconut cream or a non-dairy whipping cream.
How do I know when the cake is done baking? A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean, and the cake should spring back when lightly pressed.
Conclusion
This Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake is a delightful way to celebrate the simple pleasures in life. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a Tuesday afternoon, this cake is sure to bring smiles and satisfied bellies. So gather your ingredients, invite a few friends, and get ready to enjoy a slice of bliss!