Banana Cake

Fluffy Banana Cake with Rum Flavor

Welcome to the world of sweet delights, where today we will be carried away by the magic of a fluffy banana cake with a subtle hint of rum! This recipe not only combines delicious flavors but is also extremely easy to make, perfect for a quick dessert or to impress your guests. Plus, it can be prepared in record time, and the result is a cake so fluffy and aromatic that it will disappear from the table in no time!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8-10

Ingredients:
- 8 eggs (fresh, from free-range hens – these have a more intense flavor)
- 8 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil, but olive oil also has an interesting taste)
- 2 cups of sugar (for a less sweet cake, reduce the amount to 1 ½ cups)
- 10 tablespoons of water (sparkling water can add extra fluffiness)
- 2 cups of flour (whole wheat flour can be a healthier choice)
- 1 teaspoon of baking powder (let's not forget this essential ingredient for fluffiness)
- 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder (optional, but adds a delicious contrast)
- 1 teaspoon of rum extract (the more natural it is, the stronger the flavor will be)
- 3 bananas (choose well-ripened bananas with yellow skin and a few brown spots for a sweeter taste)

Start by preheating the oven to 180°C. This is an essential step to ensure even baking of the cake.

Step 1: Sugar Syrup
In a saucepan, combine the sugar with water. Place the mixture over medium heat and stir continuously. Wait until the sugar completely dissolves and becomes a clear syrup. Once it reaches the desired consistency, add the rum extract and let it cool. The syrup is the secret to the cake's moisture, so don’t skip this step!

Step 2: Preparing the Batter
Separating the eggs may seem like a daunting task, but it is the key to a fluffy cake. In a large bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until you get a firm foam. This will add air to the batter, contributing to the fluffy texture of the cake. Then, add one yolk, 1 tablespoon of oil, and 1 tablespoon of the sugar syrup, mixing well after each ingredient. Continue to add the remaining syrup in a thin stream, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Combining Ingredients
Add the baking powder and sifted flour, mixing with a spatula or wooden spoon. Use a gentle folding motion to avoid losing air in the batter. This step is crucial for achieving the fluffy texture.

Step 4: Preparing the Pans
Line two loaf pans with parchment paper. Divide the batter into two parts: pour 1/3 of the batter into each pan. Mix the remaining batter with cocoa powder and pour it on top. This combination of colors will make the cake not only tasty but also visually appealing.

Step 5: Bananas
Cut the bananas into cubes and toss them with a bit of flour (this trick will prevent them from sinking to the bottom of the cake). Distribute the banana cubes over the batter and get ready to enjoy the delicious aroma that will develop during baking.

Step 6: Baking
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes. Check for doneness using the toothpick test: insert a toothpick into the center of the cake, and if it comes out clean, it’s done! If not, leave it in the oven for a few more minutes.

Step 7: Cooling and Serving
Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sinking. Once cooled, slice it and enjoy it with a cup of tea or coffee.

Serving suggestion:
For an extra touch of refinement, you can sprinkle a little powdered sugar on top of the cake or serve it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. This will add a creamy note and balance the sweetness of the cake.

Tips and Variations:
If you want to experiment, try replacing the bananas with grated apples or caramelized pears for a different flavor dimension. You can also add chopped nuts or almonds for a pleasant crunch.

Nutritional Benefits:
This cake contains eggs, which are an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, and essential minerals. Bananas are rich in potassium and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion. However, it’s best to enjoy this dessert in moderation, considering its sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other types of oil?
Yes, but sunflower or olive oil is recommended due to their neutral taste.

2. What if I don’t have rum extract?
You can use vanilla as an alternative, but the flavor will be different.

3. How can I keep the cake fresh longer?
You can store it in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic wrap.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking and enjoy a fluffy banana cake! Enjoy your meal!