Imagine slicing into a warm Banana Egg Cake, where each piece reveals a moist, tender crumb and the sweet aroma of ripe bananas mingled with vanilla. This cake offers a comforting simplicity that is both humble and inviting, making it a favorite among both novice bakers and seasoned dessert lovers alike.
What sets this cake apart is its versatility. It serves as a wonderful canvas for a variety of add-ins like nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, allowing each baker to put their own twist on this classic treat. Serve it as a delightful breakfast, pack it for a picnic, or dress it up with a dollop of whipped cream for a casual dessert. It’s not just a cake, it’s a slice of home!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/3 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- Optional: chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit for added flavor
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, sugar, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- If desired, fold in chocolate chips, nuts, or dried fruit.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Slice and serve your delicious Banana Egg Cake as a tasty snack or dessert. Enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 60 minutes | Total Time: 70 minutes | Kcal: 280 per serving | Servings: 8
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This recipe requires basic kitchen tools and simple ingredients, making it an easy cake to whip up on a whim.
- Customizable: The basic recipe serves as a great foundation for numerous variations. You can add chocolate chips for a decadent touch, nuts for crunch, or dried fruit for an extra burst of flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: Kids love the sweet flavor of bananas, and this cake is a great way to involve them in the kitchen, teaching them basic baking skills.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family gathering, a formal afternoon tea, or a simple weekday dessert, Banana Egg Cake fits the bill perfectly.
Nutritional Benefits
Bananas are a great source of essential vitamins and minerals, including potassium, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber. Incorporating bananas into this cake makes it a slightly healthier option compared to other desserts. Eggs add protein to the mix, making the cake more satiating.
Serving Suggestions
- Breakfast: Serve a slice of Banana Egg Cake for breakfast alongside Greek yogurt or a cup of coffee for a satisfying start to the day.
- Dessert: Dress it up with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for a decadent dessert.
- Snack: Enjoy a slice as an afternoon snack with a cup of tea or a glass of milk.
Storage Tips
Banana Egg Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze slices of the cake wrapped individually in plastic wrap for up to three months. Thaw at room temperature or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.
Baking Tips for the Perfect Cake
- Banana Ripeness: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots.
- Mixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can make the cake dense and tough. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Testing Doneness: Use a toothpick or a cake tester to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour? Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour to add a nutritional boost to your Banana Egg Cake. Keep in mind that whole wheat flour will make the cake denser and give it a nuttier flavor.
Q2: How can I make this cake vegan? To make a vegan version of this cake, replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 flax egg = 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 15 minutes) and use a plant-based oil. Ensure that your sugar is vegan (some sugars are processed with bone char).
Q3: Can I add other fruits to this cake? Absolutely! While banana is the star of this cake, feel free to add other fruits like blueberries, raspberries, or chopped apples for additional flavors and textures.
Q4: How do I know when the cake is perfectly baked? The cake is done when it’s golden brown on top and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few crumbs. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so it’s a good idea to start checking the cake a few minutes before the expected end time.
Q5: Can this cake be made into muffins? Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted into muffins. Simply divide the batter into a muffin tin and reduce the baking time to about 20-25 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Q6: How can I keep the cake moist? To keep the Banana Egg Cake moist, store it in an airtight container. If you find the cake drying out, a slice of apple added to the container can help add moisture.
Conclusion
Banana Egg Cake is more than just a delicious treat; it’s a versatile recipe that welcomes bakers of all skill levels to add their personal touch. Whether you’re making a simple snack for the family, a delightful dessert for a special occasion, or experimenting with healthier baking alternatives, this cake offers something for everyone. Its simplicity and adaptability make it an excellent addition to your baking repertoire.
Enjoy the process of making this cake as much as you enjoy eating it. Each slice is packed with the homey, comforting flavors of banana and vanilla, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by tweaking the ingredients and trying different mix-ins. Happy baking!