What is the recipe of banana walnut cake?

Banana walnut cake is a delicious and wholesome dessert that combines the natural sweetness of overripe bananas with the earthy crunch of toasted walnuts. Soft, moist, and filled with flavor, this cake is a popular choice for tea-time snacks, breakfast bakes, and even festive occasions. What sets banana walnut cake apart is its versatility—you can keep it simple, add a touch of spice, or even turn it into a healthy, eggless version. If you're looking to use up ripe bananas or want a no-fuss baking recipe, this one is a classic you’ll keep coming back to.

Why Banana Walnut Cake?

Banana walnut cake is more than just comfort food. It’s:

• A great way to reduce food waste by using overripe bananas

• Naturally sweetened with fruit, reducing the need for excess sugar

• Rich in healthy fats and fiber from walnuts

• Easily customizable—add spices, seeds, or even chocolate chips

• Suitable for both beginner and experienced bakers

Ingredients Needed

Here’s a list of simple pantry ingredients to make a classic banana walnut cake. This makes one 8-inch loaf or round cake:

• 3 medium overripe bananas (mashed)

• 1/2 cup neutral oil (or melted butter)

• 3/4 cup brown sugar (adjust as per taste)

• 2 eggs (or flax eggs for eggless version)

• 1 and 1/2 cups all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour for a healthier version)

• 1 tsp baking soda

• 1/2 tsp baking powder

• 1/2 tsp cinnamon powder (optional)

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (toasted for extra flavor)

• 2 tbsp milk (only if needed to loosen batter)

Step-by-Step Recipe of Banana Walnut Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a loaf tin or cake pan and line it with parchment paper.

Step 2: Mash the Bananas

Peel and mash the ripe bananas in a large mixing bowl using a fork until smooth but slightly chunky. This will give texture to your cake.

Step 3: Add Wet Ingredients

To the mashed bananas, add oil (or melted butter), sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined. You can use a hand whisk or an electric mixer.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, sift together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon (if using), and salt. Mix gently.

Step 5: Fold Everything Together

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in batches. Gently fold using a spatula until you get a thick but pourable batter. Add a splash of milk if it’s too dry. Fold in chopped walnuts at the end.

Step 6: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Tap it gently to release air bubbles. Optionally, sprinkle some extra walnuts on top.

Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Baking times may vary slightly based on oven and pan size.

Step 7: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. It tastes even better the next day.

Eggless and Vegan Alternatives

For an eggless version, replace each egg with:

• 1 tbsp flaxseed powder + 3 tbsp water (rested for 10 minutes)

• Or 1/4 cup plain yogurt or mashed banana

To make it fully vegan:

• Use plant-based milk like almond or soy

• Use oil or vegan butter

• Use coconut sugar or maple syrup as sweeteners

Nutrition Facts (Per Slice, Approx.)

Note: Values vary based on the type of flour, sweetener, and substitutions used.

Tips for the Best Banana Walnut Cake

• Always use overripe bananas with black spots for maximum flavor and natural sweetness

• Toast the walnuts lightly before folding them in—it enhances their nuttiness

• Do not overmix the batter once flour is added; this keeps the cake tender

• If you prefer a lighter cake, use half all-purpose and half whole wheat flour

• For added texture, you can add seeds like sunflower or flax, or dark chocolate chips

• The cake stores well for 2–3 days at room temperature and up to a week in the fridge

How to Serve Banana Walnut Cake

• As a tea-time snack with a hot cup of chai or coffee

• Warmed slightly and topped with peanut butter or honey for breakfast

• Sliced and served with ice cream or whipped cream for a dessert upgrade

• Used as a base for a layered trifle with custard and fruits

• Packed in tiffin boxes as a healthy snack for kids and adults alike

Storage and Shelf Life

• Store in an airtight container at room temperature for 2–3 days

• Refrigerate for up to 7 days—warm before serving for best taste

• Freeze slices wrapped in cling film for up to 1 month—thaw before use

Summary

Banana walnut cake is a moist, flavorful, and easy-to-make dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a wholesome delight. Whether you're baking for a family brunch, using up overripe bananas, or just craving a no-fuss treat, this recipe never fails. With its naturally sweet bananas, nutty crunch from walnuts, and adaptable base, it’s perfect for home bakers of all levels. Make it eggless, add your own twist, or keep it classic—either way, it’s a crowd-pleaser worth repeating.