There’s something magical about baking with bananas. Their natural sweetness and moistness transform any recipe into a delightful treat. One of my all-time favorites is the Easy Banana Butter Cake. This cake is not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy butter creates a texture that’s both fluffy and rich, making it a hit at every gathering.
I remember the first time I made this cake for a family reunion. The aroma wafted through the house, drawing everyone into the kitchen. As we gathered around the table, the cake disappeared faster than I could slice it! Each bite was met with smiles and compliments, and I knew I had found a recipe that would become a staple in our family.
What makes this Easy Banana Butter Cake stand out is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delicious dessert that feels special. Whether it’s a birthday, a casual get-together, or just a cozy night in, this cake is perfect for any occasion. So, let’s dive into the ingredients and get started on this delightful baking adventure!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Easy Banana Butter Cake. Here’s what you’ll need:
175 g self-raising flour: This flour helps the cake rise beautifully, giving it that light texture we all love.
¼ tsp salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness of the cake.
⅛ tsp baking soda: This small amount helps to create a tender crumb, making the cake even more delightful.
175 g butter: Use unsalted butter, cut into cubes and at room temperature. This ensures it creams well with the sugar.
175 g light brown sugar: This sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor that pairs perfectly with bananas.
3 large eggs: Lightly beaten, these eggs provide structure and moisture to the cake.
225 g bananas: Use ripe bananas without peel. The riper, the better! They add natural sweetness and moisture.
2 tsp lemon juice: This helps to prevent the bananas from browning and adds a hint of brightness to the flavor.
Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results. Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the fun part—baking!
How to Prepare Easy Banana Butter Cake
Now that we have our ingredients ready, it’s time to bring this Easy Banana Butter Cake to life! Follow these steps closely for a cake that’s sure to impress.
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 170°C (340°F). This step is crucial because a properly preheated oven ensures even baking. While the oven warms up, prepare your baking pan. I like to use a round 9-inch pan, greased and lined with parchment paper. This helps the cake release easily after baking.
Step 2: Sift Dry Ingredients
Next, sift together the self-raising flour, salt, and baking soda in a bowl. Sifting is important as it aerates the flour and ensures that the baking soda and salt are evenly distributed. This will help your cake rise beautifully and have a light texture.
Step 3: Prepare Bananas
Now, let’s get those bananas ready! Peel and mash the bananas in a separate bowl. I usually use a fork for this; it’s quick and easy. Once mashed, stir in the lemon juice. This not only adds a bit of tang but also prevents the bananas from browning too quickly.
Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and light brown sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes with an electric mixer. The texture should be light and airy, which is key to a moist cake.
Step 5: Incorporate Eggs
Gradually add the beaten eggs to the butter and sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. This helps maintain a smooth consistency. Don’t rush this step; take your time to ensure everything is well combined.
Step 6: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add half of the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, followed by the mashed bananas. Mix gently until just combined, then add the remaining flour. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cake!
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready! Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Tips for Success
To ensure your Easy Banana Butter Cake turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips I’ve gathered from my own baking adventures:
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure all your ingredients, especially the butter and eggs, are at room temperature. This helps them blend together smoothly, creating a better texture.
Don’t Overbeat: When mixing the batter, be careful not to overbeat it. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of the light, fluffy texture we want.
Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for the best results.
Check for Doneness: Always check your cake a few minutes before the suggested baking time. Ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking.
Cool Properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps prevent it from breaking apart.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to baking a delicious Easy Banana Butter Cake that will impress everyone!
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your Easy Banana Butter Cake can help you enjoy it even more. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated values per slice:
Calories: 250
Fat: 10 g
Saturated Fat: 6 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Cholesterol: 70 mg
Sodium: 150 mg
Carbohydrates: 35 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 15 g
Protein: 3 g
This cake is a delightful treat that balances sweetness with a satisfying texture. Enjoy it as a dessert or a snack, knowing it brings a bit of joy to your day!
FAQ Section
As you embark on your baking journey with the Easy Banana Butter Cake, you might have a few questions. Here are some common queries and their answers to help you out:
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work well in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
How should I store the cake?
Store your Easy Banana Butter Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Can I substitute the butter with oil?
Yes, you can substitute the butter with an equal amount of vegetable oil. However, keep in mind that the texture and flavor may differ slightly. Butter adds a rich taste that oil doesn’t quite replicate.
What can I add for extra flavor?
If you want to jazz up your cake, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Chopped nuts or chocolate chips can also be delightful additions!
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of self-raising flour. Just make sure it contains a leavening agent, or add a bit of baking powder to help it rise.
With these answers, you’re all set to bake your Easy Banana Butter Cake with confidence. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this cake in no time, making it perfect for busy days.
Deliciously Moist: The combination of ripe bananas and butter creates a cake that’s incredibly moist and flavorful.
Versatile: Whether it’s a birthday, a potluck, or just a cozy night in, this cake fits any occasion beautifully.
Family Favorite: It’s a recipe that brings everyone together, just like my family gatherings where this cake is always a hit.
Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of the ingredients in your pantry, making it easy to bake on a whim.
Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite mix-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for a personal touch!
With all these reasons, it’s no wonder the Easy Banana Butter Cake has become a beloved recipe in my kitchen. Give it a try, and I’m sure it will win your heart too!
