Chocolate Cake with Banana

Description:

This Chocolate Cake with Banana is a deliciously moist, rich, and flavorful dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the indulgence of chocolate. The cake itself is tender and soft, enhanced by the natural sweetness and flavor of bananas. Topped with a creamy chocolate frosting, this cake is perfect for anyone who loves the combination of banana and chocolate!

Origin:

The pairing of chocolate and banana is a classic and beloved combination that has its roots in various cultures around the world. The idea of adding bananas to a cake not only enhances the flavor but also provides extra moisture and a tender texture. This cake is a great way to use up ripe bananas while indulging in a delicious chocolate treat!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup hot water or coffee (optional, for a richer chocolate flavor)

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer frosting)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

Optional Garnishes:

• Sliced banana (for decoration)
• Chopped chocolate or chocolate chips

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Cake Batter:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
   • In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth and set aside.
   • In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, and milk.
   • Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until combined.
   • Gradually add the mashed bananas, mixing until smooth.
   • Pour in the hot water or coffee, mixing until the batter is smooth and well combined. The batter will be slightly runny, which is normal.
3. Bake the Cake:
   • Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
   • Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
   • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Prepare the Chocolate Frosting:
   • In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter with an electric mixer until creamy.
   • Gradually add the powdered sugar, cocoa powder, milk, vanilla extract, and salt.
   • Mix on low speed until the ingredients are combined, then beat on high for about 2-3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.
   • If the frosting is too thick, add more milk, one tablespoon at a time. If it’s too thin, add more powdered sugar.
5. Assemble the Cake:
   • Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer of the cake on a serving plate or cake stand.
   • Spread a generous layer of chocolate frosting on top of the first cake layer.
   • Place the second layer of cake on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
   • Garnish the top with sliced banana and optional chopped chocolate or chocolate chips for extra texture and decoration.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Let the cake sit for about 30 minutes to set the frosting before slicing. Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Success:

• Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. They will blend into the batter easily and make the cake extra moist.
• Coffee: Adding hot coffee to the batter enhances the chocolate flavor, but if you prefer, you can substitute it with hot water or omit it altogether.
• Frosting: If you prefer a thicker frosting, reduce the amount of milk. You can also chill the frosting for 10 minutes before applying it if you’d like a firmer texture.
• Storage: This cake stays fresh for about 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container at room temperature. It can also be refrigerated if you prefer a firmer texture to the frosting.

Recommendations:

• Pairing: This chocolate banana cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk. It’s perfect for a dessert at a birthday party, afternoon tea, or just as a sweet treat for yourself.
• Variations: You can add a few chocolate chips or chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the batter for added texture and flavor.

Nutrition (per serving, approx.):

• Calories: 350-400 kcal (per slice)
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 18g
• Protein: 4g
• Sugar: 35g

(Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes used.)

This Chocolate Cake with Banana is the perfect blend of moist, flavorful banana cake and rich chocolate goodness, topped with a creamy frosting. It’s sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and make any occasion extra special!