Description
This Banana Walnut Dream Cake is a scrumptious dessert blending ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts, topped with a rich cream cheese frosting!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 large bananas)
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
- For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2–3 tablespoons milk (optional, for desired consistency)
- Sliced bananas and extra walnuts for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). As it heats, grease and flour three 8-inch round cake pans to ensure your layers come out smoothly once baked. Having everything prepared before you start mixing ingredients will streamline your baking process.
- In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This mixture will serve as the dry foundation of your cake. By mixing them thoroughly, you ensure that the leavening agent (baking soda) is evenly distributed, which is vital for a uniform rise.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Beat the mixture for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, which is key to achieving a beautifully airy cake.
- Incorporate the eggs into the creamed mixture one at a time, ensuring to beat well after each addition. This step further enhances the light texture by continuing to introduce air into the batter.
- Stir in the ripe mashed bananas and vanilla extract into the mixture until fully integrated. The ripe bananas add not only flavor but also moisture to your cake, enhancing its tenderness.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start and finish with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a dense cake.
- Gently fold the chopped walnuts into the batter. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful texture contrast to the soft cake.
- Divide the prepared batter evenly among the three cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cakes as they bake; the smell alone will be irresistible!
- Once baked, allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling stage is essential for a perfect texture.
- While the cakes are cooling, whip up the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated, then add vanilla extract. If you find the frosting too thick, incorporate milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired consistency.
- Once the cakes are completely cool, stack them with a layer of cream cheese frosting between each layer. Be generous with the frosting and then spread it over the top and sides of the cake for a smooth finish. Finally, garnish the top with sliced bananas and additional chopped walnuts for a beautiful presentation.
Notes
Ensure your bananas are very ripe; the more spots on the peel, the sweeter they will be, making the cake more delicious.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 5 g