Description
Banana Walnut Layer Cake
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup sugar
2 large eggs
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup buttermilk
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
For the Frosting:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons heavy cream
For Garnish:
1 banana, sliced
1/4 cup chopped walnuts
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cake:
Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F) and grease two round cake pans.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add mashed bananas.
Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with buttermilk. Stir in chopped walnuts.
Divide batter between pans and bake for 25-30 minutes. Let cool completely.
2. Make the Frosting:
Beat butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla and heavy cream. Mix until smooth.
3. Assemble the Cake:
Spread frosting between the cake layers and on top.
Decorate with sliced bananas and chopped walnuts.
4. Slice and enjoy this decadent treat!
Step-by-Step Guide
For perfect results, follow these detailed steps. First, ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at true room temperature for optimal emulsification. When creaming the butter and sugar, beat for a full 3-5 minutes until very pale and fluffy. This incorporates air for a lighter crumb. Mash the bananas until smooth, with only a few small lumps. When adding the dry and wet ingredients, do so in three parts, beginning and ending with the dry mixture. This prevents the batter from curdling. Fold in the walnuts gently at the very end. For the frosting, ensure the butter is very soft but not melted. Sift the powdered sugar to avoid lumps, and add the heavy cream one tablespoon at a time to reach your desired spreading consistency.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is a versatile centerpiece. For a brunch, serve slightly chilled with a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream or a side of fresh berries. As a dessert, a drizzle of warm caramel or dark chocolate sauce elevates it beautifully. Pair a slice with a cup of strong coffee or a dessert wine like a Muscat. For a festive touch, toast the walnuts for the garnish in a dry pan for a deeper, nuttier flavor before sprinkling them on top.
How-to Summary
To make Banana Walnut Layer Cake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Whisk dry ingredients. Cream butter and sugar, then add eggs and bananas. Alternate mixing in dry ingredients and buttermilk. Fold in walnuts. Bake in two greased pans for 25-30 minutes. Cool completely. For frosting, beat butter, then mix in powdered sugar, vanilla, and cream. Assemble by frosting between layers and on top. Garnish with banana slices and walnuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes. The unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped tightly and stored at room temperature for one day or frozen for up to 3 months. Frost and assemble the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
What can I use instead of buttermilk? Make a quick substitute by adding 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1/2 cup of regular milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning on the garnish? Toss the sliced banana in a little lemon juice before placing them on the cake. Serve immediately, as they will still brown over time.
Can I omit the nuts? Absolutely. Simply leave out the walnuts. The cake will still be moist and flavorful from the bananas.
Why did my cake turn out dense? This is often due to over-mixing the batter after adding the flour, which develops gluten. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined. Also, ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using under-ripe bananas: They lack the sweetness and intense flavor of ripe, spotted bananas.
- Not properly creaming the butter and sugar: This step is crucial for creating a light, airy cake structure.
- Over-mixing the batter once the flour is added, leading to a tough, dense crumb.
- Assembling the cake while the layers are still warm, which will cause the frosting to melt and slide off.
- Adding all the heavy cream to the frosting at once, which can make it too runny. Add it gradually.
Conclusion
This Banana Walnut Layer Cake is a classic dessert that masterfully combines comforting flavors and textures. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can create a stunning, moist, and flavorful cake perfect for any occasion. The rich frosting and crunchy walnut garnish perfectly complement the sweet banana layers. Whether for a special celebration or a weekend treat, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy.