Banana cake with strawberry jam

To begin with, we take care of the vanilla cream, an essential element of this delicious cake. In a non-stick saucepan, we add fresh milk, granulated sugar, beaten eggs, cornstarch, and a pinch of salt. These ingredients are mixed well with a whisk, ensuring that no lumps remain. Then, we place the saucepan over medium heat and stir continuously. It is important not to stray from this task, as the cream needs to thicken evenly and not stick to the bottom of the saucepan. When we notice that the mixture begins to thicken and acquires a creamy consistency, we set it aside. We add the vanilla essence and lemon zest, which will give the cream a special fragrance and flavor. We cover the cream with plastic wrap to prevent a film from forming and let it cool completely.

In the meantime, we prepare to assemble the cake. The tray we will use should be similar in size to the sponge cake layer, to ensure an even presentation. We start by placing the first sponge cake layer in the tray, and then carefully apply half of the jam, spreading it evenly over the surface of the layer. This sweet layer will add a pleasant contrast to the other ingredients. We then place the second sponge cake layer and spread the remaining jam, which will create a delicious bond between the two sponge cake layers. After that, we evenly arrange the sliced bananas, which will add a soft texture and fruity flavor to the cake.

Over the delicious bananas, we pour the vanilla cream, ensuring that we distribute it evenly over the entire surface. This creamy layer will enrich the cake and make it truly irresistible. We carefully place the last sponge cake layer on top, pressing gently to secure all the layers. Next is an essential step: we melt the dark chocolate in a bain-marie until it becomes smooth and glossy. We pour the warm chocolate over the last layer and spread it evenly, thus creating a decadent layer. On top, we sprinkle shredded coconut, which will add a tropical note and a crunchy texture.

Once we have finished assembling, the cake needs to sit in the refrigerator overnight. This resting period will allow the flavors to blend perfectly, and the textures to settle. When the time comes to enjoy it, we will discover a wonderful combination of strawberries, bananas, and vanilla, a true delight that will enchant our senses! It is a cake that not only looks good but also tastes absolutely amazing!