Banana bread

Delicious Banana Cake Recipe: A Perfect Combination of Fluffy and Sweet

Total Preparation Time: 1 hour
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Baking Time: 25-30 minutes
Number of Servings: 8

Who doesn’t love a fluffy, fragrant cake full of flavor? This Banana Cake recipe is ideal for breakfast, snacks, or even desserts. With a perfect mix of simple ingredients, this cake quickly becomes a popular choice among those who love sweets. The origins of cakes date back to traditions spanning hundreds of years, made with love in numerous cultures, but today we will focus on preparing this simple yet exceptional dessert.

Ingredients:

- 4 eggs
- 1 cup of sugar (approximately 200 g)
- 1 cup of flour (approximately 150 g)
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1 packet of baking powder (10 g)
- 2 tablespoons of oil (sunflower or canola)
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
- 1 large ripe banana
- A pinch of salt

Necessary Utensils:

- Mixing bowl
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Cake pan
- Parchment paper
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Grater (for lemon zest)
- Toothpick for testing

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preparing the Ingredients: Start by separating the egg whites from the yolks. Ensure that the bowls are clean and dry, as any grease can prevent the egg whites from whipping well.

2. Whipping the Egg Whites: In a large bowl, place the egg whites and a pinch of salt. Use the electric mixer on medium speed to whip the egg whites for about 5 minutes, until you achieve a stiff and glossy foam.

3. Adding the Sugar: While continuing to mix, gradually add the sugar. Keep mixing for 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes firm and glossy.

4. Incorporating the Yolks: Add the yolks one at a time, gently mixing with the mixer on low speed between each addition. This will help to evenly integrate the ingredients.

5. Mixing the Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, mix the flour with the baking powder and grated lemon zest. This mixture will add a fresh flavor to your cake.

6. Combining the Ingredients: Start adding the flour mixture to the egg composition, alternating with the oil and vanilla extract. Mix with a spatula until everything is well integrated. The batter should have a soft and fluffy consistency.

7. Preparing the Pan: Line the cake pan with parchment paper, ensuring it fits well against the edges. This will make it easier to remove the cake after baking.

8. Baking the First Half of the Batter: Pour half of the batter into the prepared pan and place it in the preheated oven at 180°C for 5 minutes. This step is essential to create a firm base that will support the bananas.

9. Preparing the Bananas: Meanwhile, peel the banana and slice it. Mix the banana slices with the remaining lemon juice to prevent oxidation.

10. Adding the Bananas: After 5 minutes, remove the pan from the oven and evenly place the banana slices on top of the first half of the batter. This will allow the bananas to integrate perfectly into the cake.

11. Finalizing and Baking: Pour the remaining batter over the bananas and return the pan to the oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, checking with a toothpick if it’s done. If the toothpick comes out clean, the cake is perfectly baked.

12. Cooling and Serving: Once the cake is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice it and dust with powdered sugar for a special look.

Helpful Tips for a Perfect Cake:

- Bananas: Choose ripe bananas with brown spots for a sweeter taste and better texture. If you have overripe bananas, don’t throw them away; they are perfect for this cake recipe.

- Sugar: You can replace white sugar with brown sugar for a caramelized flavor and slightly moist texture.

- Flavors: Instead of vanilla extract, you can experiment with almond or orange extracts to add an interesting note.

- Variations: You can add chopped nuts or crushed chocolate to the cake batter for a crunchy texture and intense flavor. You can also try adding other fruits, such as blueberries or peaches, for a delicious variation.

Nutritional Information:

- Calories per serving: approximately 220 kcal
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Protein: 4 g

The banana cake is not just a delicious dessert but also an excellent way to consume fruits. Bananas are rich in potassium and vitamins, and the recipe itself offers a healthier alternative to processed sweets.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Why is lemon juice used?: Lemon juice helps prevent the bananas from oxidizing and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

- Can the cake be frozen?: Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure it is well wrapped in plastic wrap or a freezer bag to prevent drying out.

- What can the cake be served with?: This cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, caramel sauce, or a cup of hot tea.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get to work! Prepare this Banana Cake recipe and enjoy every slice! Enjoy your meal!