Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake Recipe: Your Go-To Dessert Delight

Indulge in the heavenly flavors of this Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake. Perfectly ripe bananas blend harmoniously with rich vanilla and crunchy walnuts, creating a flavorful experience that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this banana bread-inspired cake is sure to become a cherished favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake brings together the classic comfort of banana bread with the elegance of a traditional cake. Its moist, tender crumb is perfect for any occasion—from casual brunches to celebratory dinners. The subtle sweetness and rich nutty undertones make it a hit among both kids and adults.

Its versatility makes this cake a staple for any meal or gathering. You’ll appreciate how the flavors balance each other perfectly, making it not only delicious but also satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use overripe bananas that are too mushy for more traditional uses.

Context/Background

The banana cake has roots that go deep into American culinary history, emerging prominently during the Great Depression when resourceful cooks sought to use every ingredient to its fullest potential. The addition of vanilla and walnuts adds a modern twist, enhancing the cake’s aroma and texture while celebrating the cherished concept of making the most out of simple, natural ingredients.

Recipe Details

Serves: 8-10

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 cup chopped walnuts

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a medium bowl, mix the mashed bananas with vanilla extract and set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the banana mixture.
5. Alternate adding the flour mixture and sour cream to the batter, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Fold in the walnuts.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for Perfect Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake

• Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
• Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Toast the walnuts beforehand for a deeper nutty flavor.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing, ensuring clean cuts and better texture.

Serving Suggestions

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce can also elevate its sweetness.

Storage and Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For extended freshness, refrigerate for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Simply thaw the cake before serving.

Final Thoughts

Ready to take your baking to the next level with this Luscious Vanilla Banana Walnut Cake? Its irresistible blend of flavors and delightful texture make it a must-bake! Whether for a sweet breakfast or a decadent dessert, you’ll love the results of your baking efforts.

Recipe Notes

• You can substitute walnuts with pecans or omit nuts for a nut-free version.
• For a dairy-free alternative, replace butter with coconut oil and sour cream with a non-dairy yogurt.
• Add a teaspoon of cinnamon for an extra layer of warmth to the flavor profile.