Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake

Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake

Ingredients:

Cake Layers:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (toasted)

Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for creaminess)

Glaze (optional but recommended):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp heavy cream or milk
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Toppings:

• 2 bananas, sliced
• ½ cup chopped walnuts (toasted)

 

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside.
3. Cream butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes) using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
4. Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract and mix again.
5. Incorporate bananas: Stir in the mashed bananas until well blended.
6. Alternate flour and milk: Add the dry ingredients to the batter in three parts, alternating with the milk in two parts (beginning and ending with the dry ingredients). Mix just until combined, being careful not to overmix.
7. Add walnuts: Gently fold in the toasted walnuts.
8. Bake: Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.

 

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. Beat the cream cheese and butter: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
2. Add powdered sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed to prevent a sugar cloud. Increase the speed to medium and beat until smooth.
3. Add vanilla and cream: Stir in the vanilla extract. If you prefer a creamier texture, add 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream and mix well.
4. Chill: Let the frosting chill in the fridge for 20-30 minutes to firm up slightly before assembling the cake.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Trim the cakes: If the cake layers have domed tops, level them with a serrated knife.
2. Frost the first layer: Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous amount of cream cheese frosting over the top.
3. Add the second layer: Place the second cake layer on top, gently pressing down. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.

Step 4: Prepare the Glaze (Optional)

1. Mix ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream (or milk), and vanilla extract. The glaze should be smooth and pourable but not too runny.
2. Glaze the cake: Drizzle the glaze over the top of the cake, letting it gently flow down the sides.

Step 5: Decorate

1. Add toppings: Arrange banana slices on top of the cake, either in a decorative circle or piled in the center. Sprinkle toasted walnuts over the top.
2. Chill before serving: For the best texture and flavor, refrigerate the cake for 1-2 hours before serving. This allows the frosting to set and the flavors to meld together.

Notes:

• Bananas: Use ripe bananas with lots of brown spots for maximum flavor and sweetness.
• Toasting walnuts: Toasting the walnuts brings out their flavor and adds extra crunch. To toast, spread the walnuts on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for 5-8 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through.
• Storage: The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Conclusion:

This Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake is a delightful combination of moist banana cake, rich cream cheese frosting, and crunchy walnuts. The optional glaze adds a beautiful finishing touch, making this cake perfect for any occasion! Enjoy it with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a comforting dessert experience.