Description
Calling all dessert lovers!
Elevate your baking game with this Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake β a perfectly moist, flavor-packed delight featuring creamy custard layers, crunchy walnuts, and fresh banana slices. Whether itβs a birthday, gathering, or just a sweet treat for yourself, this cake will make every occasion unforgettable!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/2 cup white chocolate chips
For the Filling & Topping:
2 cups creamy custard
1 banana, sliced (for garnish)
1/4 cup whole or halved walnuts
(for garnish)
Directions
Preheat & Prep
Preheat your oven to 350Β°F (175Β°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans for a smooth release.
Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the flour
, baking soda
, and salt
. Set aside for now.
Cream & Combine
In a large bowl, cream the butter
and sugar
until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs
one at a time, followed by the vanilla
.
Mix in the sour cream
and mashed bananas
until smooth and creamy.
Blend & Fold
Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing gently. Fold in the chopped walnuts
and white chocolate chips
.
Bake to Perfection
Divide the batter between the cake pans and bake for 30-35 minutes. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.
Assemble & Finish
Layer it up! Spread half of the custard
over one cake layer. Place the second layer on top and spread the remaining custard on top.
Garnish with fresh banana slices
and whole or halved walnuts
for a beautiful finish!
Enjoy your slice of heaven!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a flawless cake. After creaming the butter and sugar, ensure the mixture is pale and fluffy for optimal texture. When adding the dry ingredients, mix only until just combined to avoid a tough crumb. For assembly, ensure cakes are completely cool before adding custard. Use an offset spatula to spread the custard evenly on the first layer, then gently place the second cake layer, pressing down slightly to secure.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is versatile. For an elegant presentation, serve slightly chilled. Pair a slice with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a brunch gathering, complement it with a strong cup of coffee or a dessert wine. The cake can be made a day ahead; store it covered in the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before serving to enhance the flavors.
How-to Summary
In brief: Prepare two 8-inch cake pans. Whisk dry ingredients. Cream butter and sugar, then incorporate eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and mashed bananas. Blend in dry mix, then fold in walnuts and chocolate chips. Bake at 350Β°F for 30-35 minutes. Cool completely. Assemble with custard between layers and on top. Garnish with banana slices and walnuts.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes. Bake the cake layers up to two days in advance, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and store at room temperature. Assemble with custard and garnish on the day of serving.
What can I use instead of sour cream? Plain, full-fat Greek yogurt is an excellent 1:1 substitute that will maintain the moisture and tender texture.
How do I prevent the bananas from browning in the garnish? Lightly brush the sliced banana with lemon or pineapple juice. For best results, add this garnish just before serving.
Can I freeze this cake? You can freeze the un-frosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Do not freeze the assembled cake with custard.
My custard is too runny. How can I thicken it? Ensure your custard is chilled and thoroughly set before assembly. For a more stable filling, consider folding a cup of the custard into one cup of whipped heavy cream.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using under-ripe bananas: They lack the necessary sweetness and moisture. Ensure bananas are heavily speckled or brown.
- Overmixing the batter after adding flour: This develops gluten, leading to a dense, tough cake.
- Assembling with warm cake layers: This will cause the custard to melt and slide off. Patience is key.
- Not properly preparing the pans: Always grease and flour them, or use parchment paper rounds, to prevent sticking.
- Overbaking: Check for doneness at the 30-minute mark with a toothpick. It should come out with a few moist crumbs.
Conclusion
This Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake masterfully combines comforting flavors and luxurious texture. By following the detailed guide and avoiding common pitfalls, you can confidently create a stunning, crowd-pleasing dessert. The interplay of moist banana cake, rich custard, and crunchy walnuts guarantees an unforgettable treat for any occasion. Happy baking!