Banana Walnut Cake

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this Banana Walnut Cake. Made with ripe bananas, crunchy walnuts, and a hint of vanilla, this cake is perfect for any occasion. The moist and tender crumb combined with the rich banana flavor makes it a favorite among both kids and adults. Let’s get baking!

Preparation Time

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35-45 minutes

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 3/4 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup oil
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Oil for greasing
  • Baking paper

Directions

Prepare the Batter:

  1. Blend Wet Ingredients:
    • In a blender, combine 2 ripe bananas, 3/4 cup sugar, and 1/2 cup oil. Blend until smooth.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    • In a separate bowl, sift together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon baking soda.
  3. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:
    • Gradually add the banana mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
  4. Add Milk, Walnuts, and Vanilla:
    • Stir in 1/2 cup milk, 1/4 cup chopped walnuts, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract. Mix until well incorporated.

Prepare the Baking Pan:

  1. Preheat and Grease:
    • Grease a 9-inch baking pan with oil and line it with baking paper.
  2. Prepare the Cooking Pot:
    • Place a stand inside a large pot and preheat on medium flame for 5 minutes.

Bake the Cake:

  1. Pour Batter into Pan:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan.
  2. Cook on Stove:
    • Place the baking pan on the stand inside the preheated pot. Cover with a lid and cook on medium-low flame for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve:

  1. Cool the Cake:
    • Once cooked, remove the pan from the pot and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
  2. Serve:
    • Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy your delicious Banana Walnut Cake!

Cooking Tips

  • Ripe Bananas: Ensure the bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
  • Even Mixing: Mix the batter until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense cake.
  • Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean or with a few crumbs.

Nutritional Benefits

  • Bananas: Provide natural sweetness, potassium, and vitamins.
  • Walnuts: Add healthy fats, protein, and a satisfying crunch.
  • Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the cake.

Dietary Information

  • Contains Gluten: Made with all-purpose flour.
  • Contains Nuts: Includes walnuts.
  • Vegetarian-Friendly: Suitable for vegetarians.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and steps make this recipe accessible for all bakers.
  • Moist and Flavorful: The combination of bananas and walnuts creates a deliciously moist and flavorful cake.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for breakfast, dessert, or as a snack.

Conclusion

This Banana Walnut Cake is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the crunch of walnuts. Easy to prepare and incredibly delicious, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this cake with family and friends, and savor every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
    • Yes, you can substitute with whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser.
  2. Can I add other nuts or fruits?
    • Absolutely! Pecans, almonds, or dried fruits can be great additions.
  3. How do I store leftovers?
    • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week.
  4. Can I freeze this cake?
    • Yes, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
  5. What can I use instead of oil?
    • You can use melted butter or applesauce as a substitute for oil.
  6. How do I make this cake vegan?
    • Substitute the milk with a plant-based milk and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of regular eggs.
  7. Can I use honey instead of sugar?
    • Yes, you can use honey, but reduce the amount slightly as honey is sweeter than sugar.
  8. Do I need to use a blender?
    • No, you can mash the bananas and mix the wet ingredients by hand if you prefer.
  9. Can I add spices to the cake?
    • Yes, cinnamon or nutmeg can add a lovely flavor to the cake.
  10. What if I don’t have a stand for the pot?
    • You can use a metal trivet or anything that can keep the baking pan elevated from direct heat.