Banana and chocolate cake

Banana and Chocolate Cake - A sweet delight that will sweeten your days

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10-12 slices

Who doesn’t love a dessert that combines the sweet aroma of bananas with rich chocolate? The banana and chocolate cake is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for those moments when you need a culinary treat. This cake recipe is not only delicious but also an excellent way to use ripe bananas you have in your kitchen.

The history of banana and chocolate cake is tied to the tradition of using ripe fruits in cooking to avoid waste. In the past, resourceful housewives found bananas to be a versatile ingredient, adding them to various sweet dishes, including cakes. Today, this dessert is appreciated worldwide and has diversified into numerous versions, each tastier than the last.

Essential ingredients:
- 200 g soft butter or margarine – make sure it is at room temperature for easy incorporation
- 200 g granulated sugar – you can use brown sugar for a more intense flavor
- 3 large eggs (approximately 66 g each, without shells) – the eggs add moisture and structure
- 50 ml milk – for a fluffy texture
- 250 g banana puree (approximately 2 large bananas) – use very ripe bananas for a sweet and flavorful taste
- 240 g flour – for the base of the cake; wheat flour is the most commonly used
- 12 g baking powder – to make the cake rise beautifully
- 75 g dark or milk chocolate, finely chopped – choose quality chocolate for an intense flavor
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – optional but recommended for added aroma

Step by step for a perfect cake:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before starting. This will help with better homogenization of the mixture.

2. Mixing butter and sugar: In a large bowl, add the soft butter and sugar. Use an electric mixer to combine them until the mixture becomes creamy and the sugar completely dissolves. This is a crucial step to achieve a fluffy texture.

3. Adding the eggs: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This step helps incorporate air, making the cake lighter.

4. Including the milk and banana puree: Pour the milk and banana puree into the mixture, continuing to mix until well combined. The banana puree will provide moisture and a wonderful taste.

5. Sifting the flour: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder. This is an important technique as it helps eliminate lumps and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent.

6. Incorporating the dry ingredients: Sift the flour mixture over the liquid composition. Use a spatula or wooden spoon to fold in the flour, being careful not to overmix, to avoid a dense cake.

7. Adding the chocolate and vanilla: Finally, add the chopped chocolate and vanilla extract. Gently mix so that the chocolate is evenly distributed throughout the mixture.

8. Preparing the baking pan: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it with butter and sprinkle with flour. This step will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan.

9. Baking: Pour the mixture into the pan and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C. Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean. Be mindful of the baking time, as each oven may have its peculiarities.

10. Cooling: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Serving suggestions:
The banana and chocolate cake is delicious both warm and cold. I recommend serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a warm chocolate sauce for a contrast of textures. Additionally, a dollop of sour cream or whipped cream can add a touch of refinement to your dessert.

Possible variations:
- You can add chopped nuts or hazelnuts for an extra crunch.
- If you prefer a more exotic flavor, try adding a bit of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mixture.
- For a vegan version, replace the butter with coconut oil and the eggs with apple puree or chia.

Nutritional benefits:
The banana and chocolate cake is not only delicious but also nutritious. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and B6, while chocolate, especially dark chocolate, contains antioxidants that can provide health benefits. Although this dessert is sweet, its ingredients also offer valuable nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas, just make sure to let them thaw completely and remove any excess water.

2. How can I tell if the cake is baked?
Check by inserting a toothpick in the center; if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

3. What should I do if the cake has sunk?
Make sure you mixed the ingredients well and followed the baking time. Additionally, overmixing can lead to a dense cake.

Thus, the banana and chocolate cake becomes more than just a simple dessert; it is an opportunity to connect with your ingredients, create memories, and savor each slice. Happy baking!