Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake

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Description:
Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake is a rich and moist cake that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of walnuts, creating a delightful texture and flavor contrast. The cake layers are light yet flavorful, while the creamy frosting adds a luxurious touch to every bite. Perfect for banana lovers, this cake is a great choice for celebrations or whenever you’re craving something truly indulgent and comforting.

Origin:
Banana cakes have been a popular dessert in many cultures, often made to utilize overripe bananas. The combination of walnuts and cream in this cake creates a classic flavor pairing that has become a favorite in many Western households. It’s often associated with comfort and homemade goodness, perfect for family gatherings and special occasions.

Ingredients:

For the cake:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream (or buttermilk for extra moisture)
  • 1 cup walnuts, chopped (optional)

For the cream cheese frosting:

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 4 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency)

For garnish (optional):

  • Chopped walnuts
  • Sliced bananas

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the cake:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
    • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
    • In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
    • Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until fully combined.
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream (or buttermilk), beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
    • Fold in the chopped walnuts (if using) for an added crunch.
  2. Bake the cake:
    • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
    • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10-15 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
  3. Prepare the frosting:
    • In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
    • Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, and continue to beat until the frosting is fluffy and smooth.
    • Stir in the vanilla extract and milk or heavy cream, adding more if needed to reach your desired frosting consistency.
  4. Assemble the cake:
    • Once the cakes have cooled completely, place the first layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of frosting over the top.
    • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the cream cheese frosting.
  5. Garnish and serve:
    • Garnish the cake with extra chopped walnuts and banana slices on top for a decorative touch.
    • Slice and enjoy your Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake!

Tips for Success:

  • Ripe bananas: The riper your bananas, the better! Overripe bananas will make the cake even sweeter and more flavorful.
  • Sour cream: Using sour cream will help keep the cake moist and give it a slight tang that pairs well with the sweetness of the bananas and cream cheese frosting.
  • Frosting consistency: Adjust the amount of milk or heavy cream in the frosting to make it either thicker or thinner, depending on your preference for spreading.
  • Walnut alternatives: If you prefer, you can use pecans or even chocolate chips instead of walnuts for a different flavor.

Recommendations:

  • For extra banana flavor: You can add a few banana slices between the cake layers for an added burst of flavor and moisture.
  • Serve with tea or coffee: This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea for a cozy, comforting treat.
  • Make it a layered cake: If you prefer more layers, you can double the recipe to make a four-layer cake for an even more impressive presentation.

Nutrition (per serving):
Note: The nutrition values are approximate and will vary depending on specific ingredients and portions.

  • Calories: 350-400 kcal
  • Fat: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Sugar: 35g
  • Protein: 4g
  • Sodium: 200mg

Enjoy this Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake, a perfect balance of moist banana flavor, rich cream cheese frosting, and crunchy walnuts. It’s a delightful and comforting dessert that will make any occasion special!

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