Imagine a delicious, creamy cake that takes just 5 minutes to prepare and doesn’t require an oven. This No-Bake Banana Condensed Milk Cake is a delightful dessert that will amaze you with its simplicity and rich flavor. Perfect for any occasion, this cake combines the sweetness of bananas with the smoothness of condensed milk and cream, set on a buttery cookie crust. It’s an easy, no-fuss dessert that even novice bakers can master. Whether you’re hosting a party or just craving something sweet, this no-bake cake is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 200 g (7 oz) cookies
- 90 g (3.1 oz) butter
- 3 bananas
- 400 ml (13.5 fl oz) heavy cream (33% fat)
- 200 ml (6.7 fl oz) milk
- 8 g (0.3 oz) agar-agar
- 150 g (5.3 oz) sweetened condensed milk
Instructions
- Prepare the Crust:
- Crush the cookies into fine crumbs using a food processor or by placing them in a sealed bag and crushing with a rolling pin.
- Melt the butter in a microwave or on the stovetop.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cookie crumbs and melted butter until well mixed.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a 20 x 15 cm (8 x 6 inch) form to create an even crust. Use the back of a spoon to smooth it out.
- Place the crust in the refrigerator to set while you prepare the filling.
- Prepare the Filling:
- Slice the bananas and set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, combine the heavy cream, milk, and agar-agar.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly to ensure the agar-agar dissolves completely.
- Once the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat and simmer for about 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in the sweetened condensed milk until well combined.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Remove the crust from the refrigerator and layer the sliced bananas over it.
- Pour the cream mixture over the bananas, spreading it evenly.
- Allow the cake to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to the refrigerator to set for at least 1 hour.
- Serve:
- Once the cake has set, remove it from the refrigerator.
- Cut into squares or slices and serve chilled. Enjoy your no-bake banana condensed milk cake!
Cooking Tips
- Cookie Choice: Use your favorite type of cookies for the crust. Graham crackers, digestive biscuits, or even chocolate cookies work well.
- Agar-Agar Alternative: If you don’t have agar-agar, you can use gelatin as an alternative. Use the equivalent amount according to package instructions.
- Cream Consistency: Ensure you use heavy cream with at least 33% fat to achieve the desired creamy texture.
- Banana Ripeness: Use ripe but firm bananas for the best flavor and texture in your cake.
Nutritional Benefits
This no-bake cake, while indulgent, also offers some nutritional benefits:
- Bananas: Rich in potassium, vitamins B6 and C, and fiber. They help in maintaining heart health and digestive health.
- Dairy: The cream and milk provide calcium, which is essential for strong bones and teeth.
- Agar-Agar: A natural, plant-based gelatin alternative that is high in fiber and supports digestive health.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: No need for an oven or complicated steps. This recipe comes together in just 5 minutes of prep time.
- Delicious and Creamy: The combination of bananas and condensed milk creates a rich, creamy filling that pairs perfectly with the buttery cookie crust.
- Impressive Dessert: Despite its simplicity, this cake looks and tastes impressive, making it perfect for entertaining guests.
- Versatile: You can customize this recipe by using different fruits or adding a layer of chocolate or caramel sauce.
Dietary Information
- Vegetarian: This recipe is suitable for a vegetarian diet.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free cookies to make this dessert gluten-free.
- No-Bake: Perfect for hot days when you don’t want to turn on the oven.
Why This Recipe Works
The combination of bananas, condensed milk, and cream creates a luscious, smooth filling that contrasts beautifully with the crunchy cookie crust. The agar-agar acts as a natural setting agent, giving the cake its firm yet creamy texture without the need for baking. The use of simple, readily available ingredients makes this recipe accessible to everyone, while the quick preparation time means you can enjoy a homemade dessert without spending hours in the kitchen.
Conclusion
This No-Bake Banana Condensed Milk Cake is a testament to how easy and satisfying homemade desserts can be. With minimal effort and a handful of ingredients, you can create a dessert that is sure to delight your taste buds and impress your friends and family. Whether you’re new to baking or an experienced cook looking for a quick treat, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy the creamy, sweet goodness of this no-bake cake and make it a staple in your dessert repertoire. Happy cooking!