Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
Indulge your sweet tooth with this decadent Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake! This recipe combines rich chocolate flavors with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, resulting in a deliciously moist cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just want a tasty dessert to share with family, this cake is sure to impress.
Why make this recipe?
This Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake is not only delicious but also easy to make. It’s a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, transforming it into a show-stopping dessert. Plus, who can resist the combination of chocolate and banana? It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s guaranteed to satisfy any sweet cravings.
How to prepare Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
Ingredients:
- 🍌 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 🌾 2 cups flour
- 🍫 3/4 cup cocoa
- 🥛 1 cup milk + 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 🥚 2 eggs
- 🍬 1 cup sugar + 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 🥑 1/2 cup vegetable oil
- 🍦 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 🧂 2 teaspoons baking powder + 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 🧈 1 stick of butter
- 🍰 3 cups powdered sugar
- 🍫 1/2 cup cocoa
- 🍫 1/2 cup melted chocolate
- 🥛 4-5 tablespoons cream
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round baking pans.
- In a bowl, combine the milk and lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes to sour.
- In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the sugar, brown sugar, and vegetable oil until well combined.
- Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla to the mixture. Stir until smooth.
- In a separate bowl, mix the flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and a pinch of salt.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the soured milk, until just combined.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter with powdered sugar and cocoa until smooth. Add melted chocolate and cream, mixing until fluffy.
- Once the cakes are cool, layer them with frosting in between and on top. Decorate with chocolate shavings or banana slices if desired.
How to serve Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
Serve your Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake at room temperature for a delightful experience. It pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Don’t forget to slice it up and share with friends and family!
How to store Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate it. You can also freeze the cake slices for up to 3 months; just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap.
Tips for preparing Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
- You can adjust the cocoa powder to make it more or less chocolatey according to your preference.
- For a more fudgy texture, add an extra 1/4 cup of melted chocolate to the batter.
- Sift the dry ingredients to avoid lumps and ensure a smooth batter.
Variations
You can add nuts (like walnuts or pecans) for a nice crunch or mix in chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey treat. For a lighter version, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, frozen bananas work well! Just thaw them beforehand and drain excess liquid before mashing.
2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cakes a day in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to frost and serve.
3. What’s the best way to melt chocolate?
The easiest way to melt chocolate is to use a microwave. Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring between each, until smooth. You can also use a double boiler for a more controlled melting process.
Enjoy baking and indulging in this delicious masterpiece! 🍰❤️