Chocolate Banana Split Cake

Indulge in the Chocolate Banana Split Cake, a decadent dessert that blends rich chocolate cake with sweet bananas and creamy whipped topping. Perfect for any celebration or as a special treat!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the Banana Filling

• 3 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Whipped Cream Topping

• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Garnish

• 1/4 cup chocolate syrup
• 1/4 cup caramel sauce
• Maraschino cherries (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cocoa powder. In a large bowl, beat together sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract. Gradually add the flour mixture alternately with the buttermilk. Stir in boiling water until smooth. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool completely.
2. Prepare Banana Filling: In a small bowl, combine sliced bananas with sugar and lemon juice. Let sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bananas to release their juices.
3. Make Whipped Cream: In a chilled bowl, beat heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
4. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread the banana filling evenly over the top. Place the second cake layer on top of the bananas. Frost the top and sides of the cake with whipped cream.
5. Garnish: Drizzle chocolate syrup and caramel sauce over the cake. Top with maraschino cherries if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calorie Count: 400 kcal per slice

Variations

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts into the banana filling for added texture.
• Flavor Variations: Substitute the chocolate cake with vanilla or strawberry for a different twist.
• Frosting Options: Use chocolate whipped cream or cream cheese frosting instead of plain whipped cream.

Storage and Reheating

• Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Refrigeration: Keep leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
• Freezing: Freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.

10 Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
   Yes, you can use cake flour or a gluten-free flour blend.
2. How ripe should the bananas be?
   Use ripe bananas with plenty of spots for the best flavor and sweetness.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes, the cake can be made a day in advance. Just keep it covered to maintain freshness.
4. What can I use instead of buttermilk?
   You can use milk with a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar as a substitute.
5. Can I freeze the cake?
   Yes, freeze the cake in slices or as a whole, but make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn.
6. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pans?
   Grease and flour the pans well, or use parchment paper to line the bottoms.
7. Can I use a different fruit for the filling?
   Yes, you can substitute with strawberries, peaches, or any fruit of your choice.
8. How do I know when the cake is done?
   A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
9. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
   Yes, use a gluten-free cake mix and adjust the other ingredients accordingly.
10. Can I add a layer of ice cream?
    Yes, you can add a layer of ice cream between the cake layers for an extra treat.

Conclusion

The Chocolate Banana Split Cake is a delightful combination of rich chocolate cake and sweet banana filling, topped with a creamy whipped frosting. Perfect for any special occasion or as a delicious treat, this cake is sure to impress!

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