Are you craving the fun and fruity explosion of a banana split, but in a surprisingly easy-to-make cake format? Then look no further! This Banana Split Cake recipe is a delicious twist on a classic dessert, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth without hours in the kitchen. This recipe offers a quick dinner idea or a fantastic dessert for any occasion. Get ready for a homemade cooking experience that's both delicious and impressive!
Ingredients:
This recipe is designed to be straightforward, using readily available ingredients for a hassle-free baking experience.
- For the Cake:
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ¾ cups granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 medium)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- For the Frosting:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- ½ cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup strawberry preserves
- ½ cup chocolate syrup
- ½ cup chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, or a mix)
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
Instructions:
Let's get baking! These easy-to-follow steps ensure a perfect Banana Split Cake every time.
Get Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease and flour a 9x13 inch baking pan. This ensures your cake releases easily.
Make the Cake:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This combines the dry ingredients efficiently.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air for a lighter cake.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a small bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add the mashed bananas and buttermilk to the batter, mixing until just combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Don't overmix! Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
Prepare the Frosting:
- While the cake is baking, prepare the frosting. Beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar and milk, beating until smooth and creamy.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
Assemble the Banana Split Cake:
- Once the cake is completely cool, frost it evenly with the prepared frosting.
- Divide the cake into three sections. Spread strawberry preserves over one section, chocolate syrup over another, and sprinkle chopped nuts over the last.
- Garnish with maraschino cherries.
Tips and Variations:
- For a moister cake: Add a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar to the batter along with the buttermilk.
- Make it healthier: Use whole wheat flour or reduce the sugar slightly.
- Get creative with toppings: Use different types of nuts, chocolate chips, sprinkles, or even fresh fruit. The possibilities are endless!
- Individual servings: Bake the batter in muffin tins for individual banana split cakes.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Around 400-450 Fat: Around 20-25g Sugar: Around 40-50g
Please note that the nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This Banana Split Cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or simply a sweet treat any day of the week. Enjoy!