Are you craving a moist, delicious cake but short on time and baking skills? Then this Easy Banana Cake Mix recipe is your answer! This recipe transforms a simple box cake mix into a stunningly flavorful banana cake, perfect for a weeknight treat or a weekend brunch. It's so easy, even beginner bakers will feel like pros, and the results are unbelievably rewarding. This is one of those incredibly satisfying homemade cooking experiences that’s quick, easy and utterly delicious! Let's get baking!
Ingredients:
- 1 box (15.25 ounces) yellow cake mix
- 1 (3.4 ounce) package instant banana pudding mix
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
Instructions:
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Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This simple step ensures your cake will slide out effortlessly.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix and the banana pudding mix. This blend creates an amazing banana flavor base for your cake.
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Add Wet Ingredients: Add the vegetable oil, eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Mix with an electric mixer on medium speed until just combined. Don't overmix; a few lumps are okay.
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Add Nuts (Optional): If using, gently fold in the chopped nuts. This adds a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
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Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, dust with powdered sugar (optional) and enjoy! This cake is heavenly on its own, but you can also add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra decadent treat.
Tips for the Best Banana Cake:
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the more intense the banana flavor will be. Overripe bananas work best!
- Don't Overmix: Overmixing can lead to a tough cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Check for Doneness: Start checking for doneness around the 30-minute mark. Every oven is different, so it’s important to monitor your cake carefully.
- Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving to prevent the frosting from melting.
Variations:
- Chocolate Banana Cake: Add 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder to the dry ingredients for a rich chocolate banana cake.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Top with your favorite cream cheese frosting for an extra layer of deliciousness.
- Spiced Banana Cake: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a 12-serving cake and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Fat: Approximately 10-12g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 35-40g
- Protein: Approximately 3-4g
This easy banana cake mix recipe is a delightful addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals. It’s perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without spending hours in the kitchen. Enjoy this delicious and easy dessert! It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!