Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake

This moist and flavorful cake combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich aroma of vanilla and the satisfying crunch of walnuts. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, this easy-to-make treat is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 medium bananas)
• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup walnuts, chopped

Directions

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) .
2. Grease a cake pan (9-inch round or square works well) or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer. Beat until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes .
2. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Mix in the mashed bananas into the butter mixture until fully incorporated.
2. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Fold in Walnuts

1. Gently fold in the chopped walnuts using a spatula. The batter will be thick but creamy.

Step 6: Bake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes , or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes , then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
2. Slice and serve as-is or dust with powdered sugar for an elegant touch.

Tips for Success

• Banana Tip: Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the sweetest flavor and softest texture.
• Nut Swap: Substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds if preferred, or omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake is a delightful balance of flavors and textures. The bananas keep the cake moist and tender, while the walnuts add a satisfying crunch. With its warm vanilla aroma and simple preparation, it’s a comforting treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a slice with your morning coffee or a dessert to share with loved ones, this cake delivers pure banana bliss with every bite!