There’s something undeniably comforting about the way ripe bananas meld into a soft, fluffy cake, especially when accompanied by the delightful crunch of walnuts. One afternoon, while searching for a way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on my kitchen counter, I stumbled upon a recipe that promised to breathe new life into my dessert game: Banana Walnut Cream Cake.
As I mixed the ingredients together, the sweet aroma of banana and the rich scent of toasted walnuts filled my kitchen, creating an irresistible invitation for a little indulgence. This cake is not just easy to whip up—it’s a crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to both friends and family alike. Topped with a billowy layer of whipped cream, it makes for a perfect finish to any meal or a delightful afternoon treat.
So, if you’re looking to infuse your dessert repertoire with something hinting at nostalgia yet refreshingly delightful, let’s dive into this recipe that is as enjoyable to make as it is to savor. Perfect for a weekend gathering or a quiet evening at home, your taste buds will thank you!
Why You'll Love This Banana Walnut Cream Cake
- This Banana Walnut Cream Cake is incredibly easy to make, requiring just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time.
- The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts creates a flavor profile that is both comforting and indulgent.
- Its versatility means you can serve it as a fancy dessert or a casual afternoon snack, making it perfect for any occasion.
- Visually, the fluffy whipped cream topping adds an elegant finish that will impress your guests and make your cake the centerpiece of any gathering.
Banana Walnut Cream Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
• All-purpose flour – gives the cake its structure and fluffiness.
• Baking soda – acts as a leavening agent for a light texture.
• Salt – enhances the sweetness of the cake.
• Mashed ripe bananas – provides natural sweetness and moisture, essential for a delicious Banana Walnut Cream Cake.
• Sugar – sweetens the cake and contributes to its caramelization.
• Unsalted butter – adds richness and flavor; make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
• Large eggs – bind ingredients together and add moisture.
• Vanilla extract – infuses the cake with warm, sweet flavor.
• Chopped walnuts – adds delightful crunch and toasty flavor, elevating the cake experience.
For the Whipped Cream Topping
• Heavy cream – the star of the topping, giving a rich and creamy texture.
• Powdered sugar – sweetens the cream while allowing it to maintain its airy consistency.
How to Make Banana Walnut Cream Cake
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure your cake bakes evenly, giving it that lovely golden color and fluffy interior.
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Mix flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. Use a whisk for a light and airy blend, ensuring all dry components are well combined.
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Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This vital step adds volume and richness—trust me, it’s worth it!
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Incorporate eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract into the butter mixture. Mix until well combined, letting the sweet banana aroma fill your kitchen.
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Combine dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually. Stir until just incorporated; overmixing can lead to a dense cake, and we want it light and fluffy!
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Fold in the chopped walnuts gently. They will add texture and burst of flavor, making your cake even more delightful.
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Pour the batter into a greased cake pan. Spread it evenly and bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Cool the cake completely in the pan. This prevents the whipped cream topping from melting and ensures you’re ready for a delicious assembly.
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Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form. This should take about 4-5 minutes for a perfect, airy topping.
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Frost the cooled cake generously with the whipped cream. Feel free to be creative with your frosting style—it’s all about the presentation!
Optional: Sprinkle extra chopped walnuts on top for a beautiful finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Banana Walnut Cream Cake?
Elevate your dessert experience with delightful pairings that enhance every bite of this luscious cake.
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Fresh Berries: Their tartness cuts through the creaminess, adding a burst of flavor and color on the plate. Strawberries or raspberries would be a perfect match! A scoop of berries alongside each slice can brighten the presentation, making each serving feel festive.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of this classic flavor creates a delicious contrast to the warm cake, enhancing the banana and walnut notes. The creamy, cold texture complements the cake’s fluffy richness beautifully, turning every bite into a heavenly experience.
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Coffee: A steaming cup of rich, aromatic coffee balances the sweetness of the cake while enhancing its comforting flavors. Whether it’s a morning treat or an afternoon delight, coffee grounds the dessert in warmth and nostalgia.
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Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a homemade or store-bought caramel over the whipped cream for an extra layer of decadence. The sweet, buttery flavor beautifully complements the nuttiness of the walnuts and the softness of the bananas.
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Nutty Granola: For a delightful crunch, serve with a scoop of nutty granola. The added texture mirrors the walnuts, making the whole experience more satisfying. It’s a fun, crunchy twist that brings out a different dimension to the cake.
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Almond Milk: For a lighter beverage, chilled almond milk pairs wonderfully. Its nutty flavor complements the walnuts while creating a refreshing drink option alongside your cake.
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Zesty Lemonade: The bright, tangy notes of lemonade provide a refreshing contrast to the sweet richness of the cake. Sip on this while indulging to cleanse the palate in the most enjoyable way.
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Chocolate Sauce: An indulgent drizzle of chocolate adds a touch of luxury. This rich flavor couples beautifully with the sweet bananas and walnuts, making it a favorite among chocolate lovers.
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Tea: A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or chai, serves as a soothing counterpoint to the cake’s sweetness. It offers a calming sensation and creates a cozy setting for dessert.
Banana Walnut Cream Cake Variations
Feel free to make this recipe your own with these delightful twists that spark creativity and flavor!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking mix for a deliciously airy cake without the gluten.
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Nut-Free: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or omit them altogether for a nut-free version that’s equally satisfying.
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Vegan: Use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flax mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) and coconut oil instead of butter for a plant-based delight everyone will love.
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Spiced: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warming spice that complements the banana beautifully.
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Chocolate Twist: Stir in 1/2 cup of cocoa powder for a chocolatey version that marries perfectly with the banana and walnut flavor.
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Fruit Boost: Fold in 1/2 cup of blueberries or raspberries to add a tart burst of flavor and a pop of color to the cake.
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Caramel Drizzle: Finish with a drizzle of caramel sauce over the whipped cream topping for an indulgent, sweet finish that’s sure to impress.
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Layered Delight: Create a layered cake by halving the cake horizontally, adding whipped cream and fresh fruit in between for an elegant presentation.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Banana Walnut Cream Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake up to 24 hours in advance; simply bake, cool completely, and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to keep it moist. The whipped cream topping can be made up to 3 days ahead—just whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, frost the cake with the whipped cream and top with extra walnuts for that lovely crunch. This way, you can enjoy a homemade dessert with minimal effort, bringing smiles to your table without the fuss!
How to Store and Freeze Banana Walnut Cream Cake
Room Temperature: Store the Banana Walnut Cream Cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days at room temperature. This keeps the cake moist and fresh for your family to enjoy.
Fridge: If you want to extend the shelf life, refrigerate the cake wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The whipped cream topping may lose some fluffiness but will still taste delicious.
Freezer: For longer storage, slice the cake and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy leftovers, if desired, simply let the cake reach room temperature or warm individual pieces in the microwave for 10-15 seconds. The flavors stay scrumptious and inviting!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Make sure your ripe bananas are very soft for the best flavor and moisture in your Banana Walnut Cream Cake.
- When creaming the butter and sugar, beat them together for at least 3-4 minutes to incorporate enough air for a light texture.
- Always fold in the walnuts gently to maintain their crunch and avoid overmixing the batter, which can lead to a dense cake.
- Bake the cake until a toothpick comes out clean but keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking, which can dry out your creation.
Banana Walnut Cream Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of bananas should I use for the cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture in your Banana Walnut Cream Cake, use very ripe bananas. Look for bananas that are mostly brown and very soft, as they will provide the maximum sweetness and best texture.
How should I store the Banana Walnut Cream Cake?
I recommend storing the Banana Walnut Cream Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to retain moisture. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
Can I freeze Banana Walnut Cream Cake?
Yes, you can! For optimal freezing, slice the cake and wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap. Then, place those wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a couple of hours.
What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your Banana Walnut Cream Cake turns out dense, there are a few things you can check for next time. Ensure you didn’t overmix the batter after adding the flour, as this can lead to a denser texture. Also, always check that your baking soda is fresh, as expired leavening agents may prevent the cake from rising properly.
Is this cake suitable for people with nut allergies?
Very! For those with nut allergies, you can simply omit the walnuts from the recipe. Alternatively, you might use a nut-free ingredient like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or seeds if you want to add some texture and flavor without the nuts. Always check your guests’ dietary restrictions to ensure everyone can enjoy your delicious cake!
Can I make the whipped cream ahead of time?
Yes, but I suggest waiting until just before serving to whip the cream. If you refrigerate it beforehand, it may lose its fluffy texture over time. If you need to prepare ahead, you can whip the cream and store it in the fridge for a couple of hours, but I recommend rewhipping it gently before frosting your cake for the best results.
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Cake pan
- microwave
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas approximately 3 bananas
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts toasted for better flavor
For the Whipped Cream Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
Instructions
Cake Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix flour, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Cream butter and sugar in a large bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Incorporate eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract into the butter mixture.
- Combine dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually.
- Fold in the chopped walnuts gently.
- Pour the batter into a greased cake pan and bake for 30-35 minutes.
- Cool the cake completely in the pan.
Whipped Cream Topping
- Whip heavy cream with powdered sugar in a mixing bowl until soft peaks form, about 4-5 minutes.
- Frost the cooled cake generously with the whipped cream.
