No-bake chocolate banana dessert cake

Today's dessert perfectly blends the rich flavors of chocolate with the natural sweetness of bananas, creating a sweet and creamy experience without the need for baking. This recipe is ideal for those moments when you want to impress your guests with a delicious yet simple dessert. The entire recipe comes together in just a few hours, leaving you time to relax and enjoy the company. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Chilling time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

For the crust:
- 200 g digestive biscuits, crushed
- 80 g butter, melted
- 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 tablespoon peanut butter (optional)

For the filling:
- 2 large bananas, sliced

For the chocolate cream:
- 250 ml heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
- 80 g chocolate (50% cocoa), chopped

Instructions

1. Making the crust:
In a large bowl, combine the crushed biscuits with the powdered sugar. If you want a nutty flavor, add the peanut butter. This will provide a unique taste and creamy texture. Pour the melted butter over the biscuit mixture and mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined.

2. Forming the base:
Take a detachable-bottom cake pan, 18 cm in diameter, and lightly grease it with butter. Press the biscuit mixture into the pan using a spatula or your palm. Ensure the base is even and compact to support the rest of the dessert.

3. Adding the bananas:
Slice the bananas into approximately 1 cm thick pieces and arrange them evenly over the biscuit crust. This layer of bananas not only adds a fresh note but also moisture, balancing the crunchy texture of the base with natural creaminess.

4. Preparing the chocolate cream:
In a small saucepan, bring the heavy cream to a boil, stirring constantly to prevent burning. Once the cream starts to boil, remove it from the heat and add the chopped chocolate. Let it sit for 2 minutes, then stir vigorously until the chocolate is completely melted and you have a smooth, even cream. Add the two tablespoons of cocoa powder and continue to stir until well combined.

5. Assembling the cake:
Pour the chocolate cream over the banana layer, ensuring it evenly covers all the fruit. Cover the pan with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours so that the dessert can set.

6. Serving:
Once the dessert has chilled, carefully remove the sides of the pan. Cut into slices and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce for an extra touch of elegance.

Practical tips

- Choose the right bananas: It's best to use well-ripened bananas, but not overly ripe, to achieve a sweet taste and pleasant texture.
- Chocolate: You can experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark or milk chocolate, depending on your preferences.
- Vegan option: Substitute the heavy cream with a plant-based alternative, such as coconut cream, and use vegan biscuits for the crust.
- Storing the cake: If you have leftovers, keep the dessert covered in the refrigerator to maintain its fresh flavors and texture.

Calories and nutritional benefits

This dessert contains approximately 250-300 calories per serving, depending on the ingredients used. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium and vitamins, while chocolate provides antioxidants and can improve mood. Additionally, the biscuits and butter contribute healthy fats and carbohydrates.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use a different type of biscuit?
Absolutely! Graham crackers or oat biscuits can be used to vary the crust.

2. Is it possible to add other fruits?
Certainly! You can add strawberries, kiwi, or even berries for a contrast of flavors.

3. How can I make this dessert easier to slice?
Let the dessert sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before slicing; it will be easier to cut.

Delicious pairings

This dessert pairs perfectly with a glass of milk or a cup of aromatic coffee. If you want to add a splash of alcohol, a chocolate liqueur or a sweet wine can complement the dessert's flavor beautifully.

By preparing this no-bake chocolate and banana cake, you'll discover not only a delicious dessert but also a versatile recipe that can be customized to your preferences. Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with loved ones!