If you are looking for a delicious dessert that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with the natural sweetness of bananas, look no further than the Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake. This cake is a delightful treat that is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.
Why Make This Recipe
The Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake is perfect for chocolate lovers and banana fans alike. It’s not just a cake; it’s a celebration of flavors and textures. The moist banana cake layers are complemented by a creamy chocolate frosting, creating a dessert that is both indulgent and comforting. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas!
How to Make Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (for frosting)
- Pinch of salt (for frosting)
- Chocolate shavings (for garnish)
- Banana slices (for garnish)
Directions:
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the mashed bananas.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the Chocolate Frosting: In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well.
- Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of chocolate frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and banana slices for a beautiful finish.
- Chill: Let the cake sit for 30 minutes before slicing for best results.
How to Serve Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve it at room temperature. This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on the side. Enjoy with coffee or tea for a delightful treat!
How to Store Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, you can store it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Make sure to cover the cake well to prevent it from drying out.
Tips to Make Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Do not overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a lighter cake.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.
Variation
You can add chocolate chips to the batter for extra chocolatey goodness! Alternatively, you can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the cake layers a day in advance. Just store them tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and frost the cake on the day you plan to serve it.
2. Can I freeze Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cake layers before frosting. Just wrap them well and store them in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before frosting.
3. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can easily make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
Enjoy baking and sharing this delightful Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake!
Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
Ingredients
For the cake
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed Make sure they are very ripe for the best flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour Alternatively, use whole wheat flour for a healthier version.
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk Can be substituted with milk and vinegar.
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
For the frosting
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract For frosting.
- Pinch of salt For frosting.
For garnish
- Chocolate shavings Optional
- Banana slices Optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract until smooth. Stir in the mashed bananas.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
Prepare the Chocolate Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until light and fluffy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and cocoa powder, mixing well.
- Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.
Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of chocolate frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides evenly.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and banana slices for a beautiful finish.
Chill
- Let the cake sit for 30 minutes before slicing for best results.
