Introduction to Banana Cream Cake
When it comes to dessert that strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and nostalgia, banana cream cake reigns supreme. Imagine moist layers of banana cake cradled with rich banana pastry cream and enveloped in creamy butter frosting. This treat not only satisfies a sweet tooth but also resonates with memories of childhood, making it a delightful choice for young professionals seeking a taste of comfort amid their busy lives.
Why is Banana Cream Cake the ultimate dessert for young professionals?
For those in their 25-35 age range juggling careers and social lives, finding a dessert that is easy to whip up yet feels gourmet is essential. Enter banana cream cake: an impressive dessert that can elevate any weekend gathering or casual get-together with friends. Its combination of flavors and textures—smooth pastry cream, fluffy cake, and velvety frosting—makes it a crowd-pleaser that’s bound to earn you compliments. Plus, it incorporates bananas, which are a great natural sweetener and often already on hand in your kitchen.
In a world where time is always of the essence, this cake can be prepared in just a couple of hours, allowing you to savor the process of baking without feeling overwhelmed. So why not indulge in this delicious representation of carefree moments? You can find tips and inspiration for baking here. Enjoy the moment with a slice of delightful banana cream cake!
Ingredients for Banana Cream Cake
Creating a banana cream cake that's both delicious and visually appealing starts with the right ingredients. Here's a breakdown of the essential components you'll need to whip up this delightful dessert.
Key Components to Create This Delicious Cake
To craft the luscious layers of this cake, you'll need three main parts: the banana pastry cream, the banana cake, and the cream cheese frosting.
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For the Banana Pastry Cream:
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Whole milk
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Egg yolks
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Granulated sugar
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Vanilla and banana extracts
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Cornstarch
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A pinch of salt
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For the Banana Cake:
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All-purpose flour
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Baking powder and baking soda
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Unsalted butter
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Granulated sugar
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Eggs and egg yolks
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Mashed bananas
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Buttermilk
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For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
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Unsalted butter
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Cream cheese
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Powdered sugar
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Nilla Wafers for garnish
Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor and texture of your banana cream cake. Don’t forget to check out this link for additional baking tips and techniques!
Preparing Banana Cream Cake
Creating a delightful banana cream cake in your home kitchen can be an enjoyable process. With its moist layers of banana cake and luscious filling, this dessert is sure to impress your friends and family. Below, I will guide you step-by-step through the preparation of this irresistible treat.
Make the Banana Pastry Cream
The heart of your banana cream cake begins with a sumptuous banana pastry cream.
- In a small saucepan, heat 1 cup of whole milk over medium-low heat until just steaming, then lower the heat to keep it warm.
- In a separate medium saucepan, off the heat, whisk together 4 egg yolks, ¾ cup granulated sugar, an pinch of salt, 2 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon banana extract until well combined and light in color. Gradually incorporate 3 tablespoon of cornstarch, ensuring each addition is well mixed.
- Gradually whisk in a quarter of the warm milk into the egg mixture to temper it. Then, incorporate the remaining milk and cook over medium-low heat, whisking constantly until the mixture thickens, approximately 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and cover with plastic wrap touching the surface to prevent skin formation. Let it chill completely in the refrigerator.
By the way, the banana pastry cream can also double as a delightful filling for pastries.
Prepare the Banana Cake Batter
While the pastry cream cools, it's time to prepare your banana cake batter.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and prepare three 6-inch cake pans by greasing them and lining the bottoms with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 ¼ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 ½ teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, and ½ teaspoon salt. This dry mix is crucial for the cake’s texture.
- In a large bowl, cream 10 tablespoon softened butter and 1 ½ cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Add 2 eggs, 2 egg yolks, and 2 teaspoon vanilla; blend until smooth.
- Mix in 1 cup of mashed bananas and alternate adding the dry ingredients and ½ cup buttermilk until well combined.
Bake the Banana Cake Layers
Now it’s time to bake those delicious layers.
- Divide the batter evenly among your prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 30-34 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the centers.
- Allow them to cool in the pans for a couple of minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting
The final touch for your banana cream cake is the creamy frosting.
- In a large bowl, whip 1 cup softened butter on high speed until pale and fluffy, around 5-10 minutes.
- Incorporate 8 oz cold cream cheese, mixing until well combined.
- Gradually sift in 3 ½ cups powdered sugar, mixing on high speed until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Assemble and Frost the Cake
Now comes the fun part—assembling your cake!
- Start with your first cake layer on a rotating turntable, spreading a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
- Pipe a border of frosting around the edge, then add a generous layer of the banana pastry cream.
- Repeat this process with the remaining cake layers.
- Apply a crumb coat around the entire cake and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Finally, apply a final layer of frosting, smooth it out, and decorate with crushed Nilla Wafers and banana slices.
There you have it—a delightful banana cream cake ready to be enjoyed! Feel free to serve it with a generous dollop of whipped cream or extra pastry cream for even more indulgence. Happy Baking!
Variations on Banana Cream Cake
Vegan Banana Cream Cake Options
If you’re looking to whip up a banana cream cake that’s plant-based, you can easily make it vegan. Substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce, and use almond or oat milk for the pastry cream. For a creamy texture, blend silken tofu with a touch of vanilla and sweetener as a delightful frosting alternative.
Gluten-Free Adaptations
No need to miss out if you’re gluten-sensitive! Opt for a gluten-free flour blend to replace the all-purpose flour in the cake. Just ensure it includes a binding agent, like xanthan gum, to maintain that deliciously moist consistency. Additionally, double-check that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are gluten-free. For more tips on gluten-free baking, the Gluten Free Resources Guide is a great place to start!
Baking is all about creativity—feel free to explore different flavors and textures to make your banana cream cake unique!
Cooking Tips and Notes for Banana Cream Cake
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
When making your banana cream cake, be wary of overmixing your batter. This can lead to a denser cake rather than the fluffy texture you’re aiming for. Also, make sure your ingredients are at room temperature; this ensures better emulsification and a smoother batter. Finally, keep an eye on your cakes while baking. Every oven is different, so check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.
Best Practices for Achieving a Moist Cake
To ensure your banana cream cake stays irresistibly moist, use ripe bananas—think brown spots! Ripe bananas not only enhance flavor but also add natural moisture. Incorporating buttermilk is another game-changer; its acidity helps break down gluten, making for a tender crumb. Don’t forget to wrap your cooled cake layers tightly in plastic wrap; this locks in moisture until you're ready to assemble! For more tips, check out this baking guide.
Serving suggestions for Banana Cream Cake
Ideal occasions for serving
Banana cream cake is a crowd-pleaser that fits perfectly into various celebrations. Whether you're hosting a birthday party, spring picnic, or casual get-together, this scrumptious dessert brings joy to any occasion. The light and fruity flavors are ideal for warm weather events, while the indulgent creaminess makes it a delightful finish to holiday meals. Just imagine serving it at a weekend brunch or as a sweet surprise after dinner with friends!
Perfect pairings with drinks or snacks
To create a delightful dessert experience, consider pairing your banana cream cake with beverages like:
- Coffee or Espresso: The rich flavors contrast beautifully with the cake's sweetness.
- Herbal Tea: A soothing peppermint or chamomile tea can accentuate dessert flavors.
- Milk or Almond Milk: For a classic take, serve it with a chilled glass of milk or a nut milk alternative.
- Fresh Fruits: Complement with side servings of berries or sliced fruits for a refreshing touch.
These pairings elevate your banana cream cake experience, ensuring every bite feels like a treat!
Time Details for Banana Cream Cake
Preparation Time
You'll need about 1 hour to prepare all your ingredients and get everything ready for this delicious banana cream cake. Take your time to measure the ingredients accurately, as this will ensure the best results.
Cooking Time
The baking process takes approximately 30 to 34 minutes. It’s that sweet spot where your kitchen will start to smell heavenly, making the wait even more worthwhile.
Total Time
In total, expect to spend around 2 hours and 30 minutes from start to finish, including decorating! This means you’ll have plenty of time to savor the process and maybe even enjoy a little taste test along the way.
If you want a deeper dive into the baking world, check out Serious Eats for some insightful tips and tricks. Happy baking!
Nutritional Information for Banana Cream Cake
When indulging in a slice of this delightful banana cream cake, it's helpful to know what you're enjoying. Here’s a quick look at the nutritional profile:
Calories
Each slice of this delectable banana cream cake packs approximately 450 calories, providing a satisfying treat without going overboard.
Sugar Content
With about 30 grams of sugar per slice, this cake offers that sweet flavor we all love, but it’s always wise to enjoy in moderation!
Servings Per Recipe
This recipe yields 8 generous slices, making it perfect for sharing at gatherings or simply treating yourself!
For further reading on sugar and caloric intakes, consider checking out resources like the American Heart Association for guidelines on maintaining a balanced diet. Enjoy your baking!
FAQs about Banana Cream Cake
What can I substitute for bananas in banana cream cake?
If you're in a pinch without bananas, applesauce offers a delightful alternative, bringing moisture and a hint of sweetness. You could also try mashed avocados for a healthier twist, but keep in mind it may impact the flavor slightly. A banana-flavored pudding can be used as a stand-in for the mashed bananas if you're aiming for that signature taste.
How do I store leftover banana cream cake?
To keep your delicious banana cream cake fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Make sure to consume it within 3-4 days for the best flavor and texture. If you need to, you can also freeze cake slices wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to a month.
Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! The banana cream cake can be made a day ahead. Just assemble it without frosting, and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to serve, whip up the cream cheese frosting and decorate your cake for that fresh, delicious finish!
Conclusion on Banana Cream Cake
Final thoughts on creating and enjoying this delightful dessert
In conclusion, your banana cream cake is not just a dessert; it's a celebration of flavors! With its moist layers and delicious banana pastry cream, this cake is sure to impress at any gathering. So gather your ingredients, embrace the joy of baking, and savor every slice!
Banana Cream Cake
Equipment
- small saucepan
- medium saucepan
- large bowl
- electric mixer
- offset spatula
- Cake Turntable
- cake scraper
Ingredients
For the Banana Pastry Cream
- 1 cup whole milk 240 ml
- 4 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 eggs at room temperature
- 2 egg yolks at room temperature
- 2 teaspoon vanilla
- 1 cup mashed banana 250 g
- ½ cup buttermilk at room temperature, 120 ml
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter 224 g, softened
- 8 oz cream cheese cold, 226 g
- 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.
- Then turn the heat down to low. To the mixture, add in ¼ cup of the heated milk while stirring vigorously.
- Then, add the rest 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 of the pastry cream 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
- Step One Filling the Cake: Place the first cake layer on the rotating cake turntable. Add a thin layer of cream cheese frosting on top of the cake layer and even it out. Pipe a 'border' layer of frosting just on the edges of the cake layer and add banana pastry cream on top. Place the next cake layer over and repeat.
- Step Two Creating the Crumb Coat: Place the final layer over the top and place small dollops of frosting on the sides and top. Even out the frosting as much as possible with your offset spatula. Chill the cake in the fridge for 30 minutes.
- Step Three Final Layer of Frosting: Once chilled, remove and apply the final coating of frosting. Smooth out the frosting with your cake scraper. Press crushed Nilla Wafers onto the bottom of the cake. Chill for another 30 minutes.
- Step Four Decorating the Cake: Rewhip the cream cheese frosting if necessary and transfer it to a piping bag. Pipe decorative swirls on top and decorate with banana slices and Nilla Wafers. Serve the cake!
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