Banana Cake - Vegan

Vegan Banana Cake – a delicious and aromatic delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 50-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Who doesn't love a fluffy, moist, and flavorful cake? The vegan banana cake is a wonderful choice, not just for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, but also for all lovers of healthy and tasty desserts. This simple, quick, and accessible recipe transforms ripe bananas, which would otherwise be thrown away, into a remarkable dessert.

The history of banana cake is fascinating, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. Bananas, originating from tropical regions, have been brought to various corners of the world, becoming a versatile ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. This cake perfectly reflects this versatility, being easy to adapt and personalize.

Ingredients:
- 4 large, very ripe bananas (the riper they are, the sweeter and more aromatic the cake will be)
- 1 cup sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 50 ml oil (sunflower or coconut oil are the most suitable)
- 2 cups flour (whole wheat flour can be a healthy alternative)
- 10 g baking powder
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (adds a warm and comforting flavor)
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg (for a more refined taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (enhances the cake's aroma)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the bananas are very ripe; they will not only improve the taste but also help with the cake's consistency.

2. Sifting the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, sift the flour together with the baking powder, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Sifting is not just an aesthetic step; it helps aerate the flour and prevents lumps, ensuring a fine texture for the cake.

3. Preparing the wet mixture: In another bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until they become a smooth puree. Gradually add the sugar, mixing well, then the oil and vanilla extract. It's important to mix well after each ingredient to achieve a homogeneous mixture.

4. Combining the ingredients: Once you have a homogeneous mixture, gradually add the dry ingredients. Use a spatula or a wooden spoon to gently mix until everything is well combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can lead to a denser cake.

5. Preparing the baking pan: Grease a round pan with oil and line it with parchment paper. This step is essential to prevent the cake from sticking to the pan, making it easier to serve later.

6. Baking the cake: Pour the mixture into the prepared pan and level the surface. Preheat the oven to 180°C and bake the cake for 50-60 minutes, or until it is golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

7. Cooling and serving: Once the cake is baked, let it cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer it to a cooling rack. It is recommended to serve it cold, but you can also enjoy it warm.

Practical tip: If you want to add a personal touch, you can incorporate nuts or hazelnuts into the mixture, giving it a crunchy texture.

The vegan banana cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or coffee, making it a perfect choice for brunch or an afternoon snack. You can also serve it with vanilla ice cream or chocolate sauce for a delicious contrast.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use less ripe bananas?
We recommend very ripe bananas to achieve a sweeter and moister cake. Less ripe bananas may require adding more sugar.

2. How can I adapt the recipe to be gluten-free?
You can replace wheat flour with almond flour or ground oats, being careful to adjust the amount of liquids, as alternative flours may absorb more moisture.

3. Can the cake be frozen?
Yes, the cake can be frozen. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and seal it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for 1-2 months.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Each serving of banana cake contains approximately 180-220 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, contributing to healthy digestion and heart health.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! The vegan banana cake is not just a simple dessert, but a true celebration of flavor that brings a touch of joy to every day. Enjoy!