Banana and candied fruit cake

Banana and Candied Fruit Cake

Introduction
Welcome to my kitchen, where every recipe becomes a story! Today, I will share with you a delicious recipe for banana and candied fruit cake, which is not only easy to prepare but also brings a touch of freshness and flavor in every slice. This cake is perfect for a quick dessert, a healthy snack, or even to be enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee. With a mix of flavors and textures, this recipe will surely become your favorite!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 40-45 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas (about 250g)
- 100g sugar
- 100g soft butter (at room temperature)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 small tub of Danone yogurt (about 125g)
- 280g flour
- 1 packet (about 10g) baking powder
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground cardamom (optional, for extra flavor)
- 2 tablespoons candied blueberries
- 2 tablespoons candied cranberries
- 2 tablespoons golden raisins
- 2 tablespoons frozen blueberries (for decoration)
- Powdered vanilla sugar (for decoration)

Ingredient details
Bananas are the main ingredient of this cake, bringing not only sweetness but also moisture. Make sure to use very ripe bananas, as they are the most flavorful. Soft butter will provide a fluffy texture to the cake, while yogurt will contribute to a slightly moist consistency. The candied fruits, such as blueberries, cranberries, and raisins, add a splash of color and intense flavor, while the spices - cinnamon and cardamom - will turn every bite into an explosion of aromas.

Preparation
1. Preparing the banana puree: Start by mashing the two bananas in a large bowl. Use a fork to achieve a smooth puree without large chunks. Add the yogurt over the banana puree and mix well to combine the ingredients.

2. Beating the butter and sugar: In another bowl, beat the soft butter with the sugar and vanilla extract until you achieve a creamy and fluffy mixture. This step is essential for incorporating the air needed for the cake to be fluffy.

3. Adding the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. It is important for the eggs to be at room temperature to incorporate better into the mixture.

4. Combining wet and dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder, cinnamon, and cardamom. Add the flour mixture over the wet banana and butter mixture, gently mixing with a spatula. It is important not to overmix, as this could develop the gluten in the flour, making the cake denser.

5. Adding the candied fruits: Finally, add the candied blueberries, cranberries, and golden raisins, gently mixing to avoid crushing them. These will add a touch of sweetness and a pleasant texture to the cake.

6. Preparing the baking pan: If you choose to bake the cake in a loaf pan, make sure it is well greased or lined with parchment paper. I prefer a silicone pan with a diameter of 22 cm, which gives me a nice and even appearance. Pour the mixture into the pan and level the surface.

7. Decorating the cake: Sprinkle some frozen blueberries on top for a nice appearance and a crunchy texture.

8. Baking: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. Bake the cake for 40-45 minutes, or until it passes the toothpick test - insert a toothpick in the center of the cake; if it comes out clean, the cake is done. After removing the cake from the oven, let it cool for 10 minutes in the oven with the door ajar to prevent sudden cracking.

9. Serving: Sprinkle powdered vanilla sugar on top of the cake for an elegant appearance. Serve the cake with a drizzle of cherry syrup for a delicious contrast of flavors. This will add a tangy taste, perfect for balancing the sweetness of the cake.

Useful tips
- Use quality candied fruits, as their flavors will significantly influence the taste of the cake.
- If you want to make a vegan version, you can replace the eggs with 4 tablespoons of applesauce or silken tofu.
- Experiment with different types of candied or fresh fruits, such as apricots or raspberries, to give the cake a personal twist.

Nutritional benefits
Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, contributing to digestive health. Yogurt adds protein and probiotics, essential for a healthy digestive system. Whole wheat flour can be used instead of white flour for a healthier version, adding extra fiber and nutrients.

Frequently asked questions
- Can the cake be stored in the fridge?
Yes, the cake can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days. Make sure it is covered to prevent drying out.
- Can I freeze the cake?
Sure! The cake can be frozen. Cut it into slices, wrap them well in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Delicious pairings
This banana and candied fruit cake pairs perfectly with a cup of fruit tea or a creamy cappuccino. Additionally, vanilla ice cream alongside the cake will transform a simple dessert into a gourmet experience.

Personal tip
I like to add a teaspoon of cocoa to the mixture to achieve a cake with a subtle chocolate flavor that perfectly complements the banana aromas. I encourage you to experiment and find the combinations you like best!

Conclusion
Now that you have gone through each step of this delicious banana and candied fruit cake recipe, I am sure you will impress anyone with your culinary talent. Don't hesitate to share the final result with your loved ones and enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!