Introduction to Banana Cream Cake
Banana Cream Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience! If you’ve ever enjoyed the rich, velvety comfort of banana pudding, you’ll relish the layers of this delightful cake that infuse those familiar flavors into every bite. What makes Banana Cream Cake a must-try? It brings together moist banana cake, luscious banana pastry cream, and a creamy frosting that all complement each other beautifully, creating a harmony of textures and tastes.
The combination of sweet, ripe bananas with fluffy cream cheese frosting makes this cake a standout at any gathering or as a cozy treat at home. Not to mention, it's surprisingly simple to make, allowing even novice bakers to impress friends and family. Studies show that foods with banana flavors are often associated with nostalgia and warmth, making this cake an instant mood booster.
Whether it’s a birthday, a holiday, or simply a day that needs brightening up, this banana cream cake can elevate any occasion. For more inspiration, consider checking out baking resources like King Arthur Baking or The Baking Expert for tips and tricks. Ready to dive into this deliciousness? Let’s get started!
Ingredients for Banana Cream Cake
If you’re ready to indulge in a slice of banana cream cake, you’re in for a delightful treat! Here's what you'll need to create this delicious dessert, broken down into three essential components: the banana pastry cream, the banana cake, and the scrumptious cream cheese frosting.
For the Banana Pastry Cream
- 1 cup whole milk
- 4 egg yolks
- ¾ cup granulated white sugar
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon banana extract
- 3 tablespoon cornstarch, scooped and leveled
This rich pastry cream adds that classic, creamy texture everyone loves. If you're curious about the science behind pastry cream, check out this detailed guide from Fine Cooking.
For the Banana Cake
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour, spooned and leveled
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 10 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated white sugar
- 2 eggs, at room temperature
- 2 egg yolks, at room temperature
- 2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup mashed banana
- ½ cup buttermilk, at room temperature
The banana cake is light yet decadent, making each bite a heavenly experience.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese, cold
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- Nilla Wafers for decoration
This creamy frosting contrasts beautifully with the banana layers. You can try using different flavored extracts to personalize your frosting!
With these carefully selected ingredients, you’ll be well on your way to baking a mouthwatering banana cream cake that’s sure to impress! What are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
Preparing Banana Cream Cake
Crafting a delightful banana cream cake at home is easier than you might think! Follow these steps to create a delicious dessert that’s sure to impress your friends and family.
Make the Banana Pastry Cream
To kick things off, let's whip up the banana pastry cream.
- In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of whole milk over medium-low heat until it's steaming, then reduce the heat to low.
- In another medium saucepan, combine 4 egg yolks, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, ⅛ teaspoon salt, 2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon banana extract. Whisk them together until smooth and pale yellow.
- Gradually incorporate 3 tablespoon of cornstarch, mixing thoroughly after each addition.
- Once combined, slowly add ¼ cup of the heated milk, stirring vigorously. Then mix in the rest of the milk and turn the heat back up to medium-low, whisking continuously until thickened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from heat, cover with plastic wrap, and chill until cold.
This creamy filling will add that rich flavor to your banana cream cake!
Prepare the Banana Cake
Next, it's time for the cake itself:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 6-inch cake pans with non-stick spray and parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of flour, 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt.
- In a large bowl, cream 10 tablespoon of softened butter and 1 ½ cups of sugar until fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add 2 eggs, 2 egg yolks, and 2 teaspoon vanilla, mixing until well combined.
- Incorporate 1 cup of mashed banana and slowly add the dry mixture alternately with ½ cup of buttermilk until smooth.
Bake the Banana Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans and bake for 30-34 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 2 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cakes cool, let’s make the luscious frosting:
- Beat 1 cup of softened butter on high speed until pale and fluffy, about 5-10 minutes.
- Mix in 8 oz of cold cream cheese until well combined.
- Gradually sift in 3 ½ cups of powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy.
Cream cheese frosting adds a smooth tanginess that pairs wonderfully with our banana flavors.
Assemble the Banana Cream Cake
Now comes the fun part—assembly!
- Place the first layer on a turntable, spread a layer of frosting, and pipe a border for the banana pastry cream.
- Repeat this process with the next layer, adding banana cream in between.
- For the crumb coat, apply a thin layer of frosting over the whole cake and chill for 30 minutes.
- After chilling, apply the final frosting layer, smooth it out, and decorate with crushed Nilla Wafers and banana slices.
Finally, slice, serve, and enjoy the fruits of your labor! Your friends will be talking about this amazing banana cream cake for weeks!
Variations on Banana Cream Cake
Banana cream cake is a delightful dessert, but why stop at the classic version? Here are two fantastic variations that can bring some exciting twists to your baking!
Chocolate Banana Cream Cake
For a luscious spin, consider adding chocolate to your banana cream cake. Incorporate cocoa powder into the batter and replace some of the all-purpose flour with it. This rich layer of chocolate combined with the banana pastry cream creates a decadent treat that will impress chocolate lovers. To enhance the experience, consider drizzling melted chocolate over your cream cheese frosting.
Gluten-Free Banana Cream Cake
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, this cake can easily be adapted! Swap out the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, ensuring it's one with a good structure so your cake remains moist and fluffy. Remember to check the ingredients in your baking powder and cornstarch, as some brands may contain gluten. Serving it with fresh whipped cream can be a delightful touch, catering to everyone's tastes!
For more tips on baking variations, visit King Arthur Baking and explore the exciting world of gluten-free baking!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Banana Cream Cake
Tips for perfecting the Banana Pastry Cream
To achieve a velvety banana pastry cream, ensure you heat the milk just until steaming, not boiling. Whisk continuously as you combine the ingredients, especially when incorporating cornstarch — this guarantees a smooth texture. After cooking, covering the cream with plastic wrap directly on the surface helps prevent a skin from forming. For an extra banana flavor, try adding a splash of freshly mashed banana when you stir it in!
Notes on cake layering techniques
Layering your banana cream cake should be both fun and meticulous. Start by leveling each cake layer with a serrated knife to prevent a lopsided dessert. When frosting, use an offset spatula to create even layers. Consider refrigerating between layers to set the banana pastry cream, ensuring it won’t ooze out when you slice into this delightful creation. A crumb coat before the final frosting is key to a beautiful finish!
For more baking tips, check out The Kitchn or Food Network.
Serving Suggestions for Banana Cream Cake
Pairing with Fresh Fruit
To elevate your banana cream cake, serve it alongside a medley of fresh fruit. Slices of ripe strawberries, juicy raspberries, or even a tangy citrus salad can complement the sweet flavors of the cake perfectly. This combination not only adds a splash of color but also provides a refreshing contrast, making each bite even more delightful. Don’t hesitate to place banana slices on the plate for an extra touch of thematic charm!
Suggested Beverage Accompaniments
When it comes to beverages, consider offering a chilled glass of iced tea or a creamy chai latte, as both pair beautifully with the rich flavors of your banana cream cake. For a lighter option, sparkling water with a twist of lemon can cleanse the palate between bites. Alternatively, a frothy cappuccino is a fantastic companion, enhancing the cake’s indulgence while providing a perfect end to a meal.
These thoughtful pairings will make your banana cream cake experience truly delightful—who wouldn’t enjoy a little extra indulgence? Feel free to explore more pairing ideas here.
Time Breakdown for Banana Cream Cake
Preparation Time
This delectable banana cream cake requires about 30 minutes of prep work. This includes gathering ingredients, making the banana pastry cream, and preparing the cake batter.
Cooking Time
The baking itself will take around 30-34 minutes. Keep an eye on your cakes, checking for that perfect golden hue and testing with a toothpick!
Total Time
In total, you're looking at approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes from start to finish, not accounting for cooling time. With a little patience, you'll have a delicious banana cream cake ready to impress! For more baking tips, check out this baking techniques guide.
By understanding this time breakdown, you can master your schedule and create a memorable dessert that will have your friends and family asking for seconds! Happy baking!
Nutritional Facts for Banana Cream Cake
Calories
A slice of banana cream cake typically contains about 350 calories. While enjoying this treat, remember to savor each bite, as the rich flavors come from wholesome ingredients like ripe bananas and creamy frosting.
Protein
Each serving offers around 4 grams of protein, mainly from the eggs and cream cheese. While this isn't a major source of protein, it's a delightful addition to your dessert!
Sugar
You'll find approximately 25 grams of sugar in a serving. Most of this sweetness comes from the added granulated sugar and ripe bananas. If you're looking for alternatives, consider reducing sugar or using natural sweeteners for a healthier option.
For more insights on nutrition and delicious recipes, check out Healthline or ChooseMyPlate.
FAQs About Banana Cream Cake
How can I ensure my cake stays moist?
To achieve a moist banana cream cake, make sure to incorporate enough mashed bananas into your batter, as this adds natural moisture. Additionally, using room temperature ingredients and buttermilk will help create a tender crumb. After baking, allow the cake to cool completely before frosting; layering on frosting seals in the moisture beautifully.
Can I prepare the pastry cream in advance?
Absolutely! Making the banana pastry cream a day ahead not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld wonderfully. Just remember to cover it with plastic wrap directly on the surface to prevent a skin from forming. It can be stored in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your cake.
What can I use instead of Nilla Wafers for decoration?
If you’re looking for a change, try using crushed graham crackers or even vanilla or chocolate cookies! For a more colorful touch, consider sprinkling toasted coconut or adding some candied pecans for a delightful crunch. Get creative with your decorations to match your personal taste or party theme!
Explore more tips on keeping cakes moist and decorating ideas on sites like BBC Good Food or Epicurious.
Conclusion on Banana Cream Cake
In wrapping up our delicious adventure with banana cream cake, it’s clear that this delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion. Rich layers of banana pastry cream and cream cheese frosting create an irresistible flavor. So, gather your ingredients, follow the recipe, and impress your friends and family today!
Banana Cream Cake
Equipment
- small saucepan
- medium saucepan
- large bowl
- Electric mixer
- Cake turntable
- Piping Bag
- Cooling Rack
Ingredients
For the Banana Pastry Cream
- 1 cup whole milk 240 ml
- 4 large egg yolks
- ¾ cup granulated white sugar 150 g
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon banana extract
- 3 tablespoon cornstarch 24 g, scooped and leveled
For the Banana Cake
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour 282 g, spooned and leveled
- 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 10 tablespoon unsalted butter 140 g, softened
- 1 ½ cups granulated white sugar 300 g
- 2 large eggs at room temperature
- 2 large egg yolks at room temperature
- 2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup mashed banana 250 g
- ½ cup buttermilk 120 ml, at room temperature
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter 224 g, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese 226 g, cold
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar 455 g
- Nilla Wafers for decoration
Instructions
For the Banana Pastry Cream
- In a small saucepan, heat the milk over medium-low heat just until it’s steaming. Then, turn heat down to low until ready to use.
- To a separate medium saucepan, with the heat off, add the egg yolks, sugar, salt, vanilla and banana extract and whisk until combined and a pale-yellow color. Gradually mix in the cornstarch 1 tablespoon at a time making sure each addition is fully combined before adding the next.
- When all the cornstarch is added, heat the mixture over medium-low heat. Whisk continuously for 3-4 minutes until the sugar looks dissolved and the mixture is hot.
- Turn the heat down to low. To the mixture, add in ¼ cup of the heated milk while stirring vigorously.
- Add the rest of the milk in and stir to combine. Increase heat to medium-low again and cook for 1-2 minutes, whisking continuously, until the mixture is thick and soft peaks form.
- Remove the pastry cream from heat. Transfer it to a bowl and place plastic wrap right on top to prevent a skin from forming. Chill it in the fridge until completely cold.
For the Banana Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Spray 3 6" cake pans with non-stick spray and line the bottoms with parchment paper rounds.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt, then set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together with an electric mixer on high speed until it is light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Next add in the eggs, egg yolks and vanilla and mix on medium-high speed until pale in color, smooth and slightly fluffy, about 1-2 minutes. Scrape the sides and bottom of the bowl with a spatula as necessary.
- Then add in the mashed banana and combine on low speed.
- Add the dry ingredients and the buttermilk alternately to the butter mixture and mix on low then medium speed until combined and the batter is smooth.
- Divide the batter evenly among the prepared cake pans.
- Bake the cakes for 30-34 minutes, or until a cake tester/toothpick comes out clean from the centers.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for 2 minutes, then transfer them to a cooling rack to completely cool.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Add the butter to a large bowl and whip on high speed until pale in color and fluffy, 5-10 minutes.
- Then mix in the cold cream cheese.
- Sift the powdered sugar in a little at a time until all is combined. Whip the frosting on high speed until light and fluffy.
Assembling the Cake
- Place the first cake layer on the rotating cake turntable. Add a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top and even it out with an offset spatula. Pipe a border layer of frosting on the edges of the cake layer. Then add banana pastry cream on top of the cake layer and place the next cake layer over top and repeat the step.
- Then place the final layer over the top and place small dollops of frosting on the sides and top of the cake. Even out the frosting with an offset spatula and chill the cake in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Once the cake has chilled, apply the final coating of frosting. Press crushed Nilla Wafers onto the bottom of the cake and return it to the fridge to chill for another 30 minutes.
- Rewhip if necessary and transfer the remaining frosting to a piping bag. Pipe decorative swirls on top of the cake. Decorate with banana slices and Nilla Wafers, then serve the cake!
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