Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake

Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavor of ripe bananas with crunchy walnuts and a smooth, creamy texture. This cake is moist and fluffy, with just the right balance of sweetness and nuttiness. The sour cream adds a luscious creaminess, making each bite melt in your mouth. Whether you’re craving a comforting treat or looking for a showstopper dessert for a special occasion, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor—perfect for banana and nut lovers alike!

Ingredients

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup sour cream

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
2. In a small bowl, mash the bananas with a fork until smooth. Stir in the chopped walnuts and set the mixture aside.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Mix until just combined.
6. Gently fold in the banana and walnut mixture.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared 9×13 inch pan and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

1. Chocolate Chips: Add 1/2 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolatey twist that pairs wonderfully with the bananas and walnuts.
2. Other Nuts: If you prefer, you can substitute walnuts with pecans or almonds for a different nutty flavor.
3. Banana Frosting: For an extra layer of flavor, top the cake with a cream cheese or buttercream frosting, adding a little mashed banana to the frosting for extra banana flavor.
4. Spices: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version of the cake.
5. Vegan Option: Use a non-dairy butter substitute, flax eggs, and a dairy-free sour cream to make the cake vegan-friendly.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you live in a particularly warm climate, it’s best to refrigerate it to keep it fresh for longer.
• Freezing: You can freeze slices of this cake for up to 3 months. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Let thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature.
• Reheating: To reheat, place a slice in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or warm it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use overripe bananas for this cake?
   Yes! Overripe bananas are actually the best for banana cake because they are sweeter and more flavorful.
2. Can I make this cake without walnuts?
   Absolutely! If you don’t like walnuts or have allergies, feel free to omit them or substitute with another nut like pecans, or even chocolate chips.
3. Can I use a different type of flour?
   You can substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour, but the cake may turn out denser. You may also try gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
4. Can I use buttermilk instead of sour cream?
   Yes, buttermilk will provide a similar tangy flavor and moist texture as sour cream. You can substitute it in equal amounts.
5. What if I don’t have a 9×13 inch pan?
   You can use an 8×8 inch square pan, but the baking time may be longer. Alternatively, you can use two 9-inch round cake pans for a layered cake.
6. Can I add frosting to this cake?
   Yes, cream cheese frosting or chocolate ganache would be perfect with this cake. It pairs well with both the banana and walnut flavors.
7. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer?
   Yes, a hand mixer will work just fine to cream the butter and sugar. Just be sure to mix gently when adding the flour mixture.
8. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
   Yes, this cake stores well and can be made a day ahead. It even improves in flavor after sitting for a bit!
9. Is this cake suitable for a potluck or party?
   Absolutely! This cake is perfect for sharing at gatherings, as it is easy to cut into slices and serves a crowd.
10. Can I add more bananas for extra banana flavor?
    Yes, you can add one more ripe banana for extra moisture and banana flavor, but you may need to adjust the flour to maintain the right consistency.

Conclusion

Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake is the ultimate comfort dessert—moist, flavorful, and perfectly balanced with the sweetness of bananas and the crunch of walnuts. Its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions make it a great choice for both beginner bakers and experienced ones. Whether you’re looking for a casual treat or something special for a gathering, this cake is sure to satisfy any craving. Serve it up with a dollop of whipped cream or enjoy it as is—either way, it’s a delightful dessert that will have everyone coming back for more.

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