Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake

Delight in the comforting flavors of Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake, a moist and flavorful dessert that pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. This cake combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with crunchy walnuts, creating a perfect treat for any occasion, from casual gatherings to celebrations.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup mashed bananas
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup sugar
2 eggs
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
3. In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, sour cream, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas, mixing until smooth.
4. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts.
5. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Servings and Timing

This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. The prep time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30-35 minutes, bringing the total time to around 45-50 minutes.

Variations

• Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips for a rich chocolatey twist.
• Spices: Incorporate 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra warmth and flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
• Frosting: Top the cake with cream cheese frosting or a simple vanilla glaze for added sweetness.

Storage/Reheating

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use overripe bananas?
   Yes, overripe bananas work best as they add more sweetness and moisture.
2. What if I don’t have sour cream?
   You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk.
3. Can I make this cake without nuts?
   Absolutely! You can omit the walnuts if you prefer a nut-free version.
4. How do I know when the cake is done?
   The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
5. Can I double the recipe?
   Yes, you can double the ingredients and bake in two pans or a larger pan, adjusting the baking time as necessary.
6. How can I make this cake more festive?
   Consider adding a layer of frosting or decorating with sliced bananas and walnuts on top.
7. Can I bake this in a loaf pan?
   Yes, you can use a loaf pan; just adjust the baking time to about 50-60 minutes.
8. What other nuts can I use?
   Pecans or hazelnuts would also work well in this cake.
9. Is this cake good for breakfast?
   Yes, this cake makes for a delicious breakfast or snack option!
10. How should I serve this cake?
    Serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with whipped cream for an extra treat.

Conclusion

Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake is a delightful dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of bananas with the satisfying crunch of walnuts. Its simple preparation and delicious flavor make it a go-to recipe for both seasoned bakers and beginners alike. Enjoy a slice at your next gathering, or savor it with your morning coffee—either way, it’s sure to be a hit!

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