If you love moist, flavorful cakes packed with nuts and banana goodness, this banana nut cake recipe is a must-try. With its soft, tender crumb and crunchy nut topping, this cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon snack. Whether you prefer walnuts, pecans, or a mix of both, this guide will help you bake the perfect homemade banana nut cake.
A well-balanced combination of ripe bananas, warm spices, and crunchy nuts creates the ultimate comfort dessert. For best results, check out how to store baked goods properly to keep your cake fresh and moist.
What Is Banana Nut Cake
This cake is:
- A soft, moist cake made with mashed bananas and crunchy nuts
- Typically flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg for extra warmth
- Perfectly sweet, but not overly sugary, making it great for any time of day
Key Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Nuts & Toppings
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup chopped nuts for garnish
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round or square baking pan
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg
- In a large bowl, beat butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition
- Mix in mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined
- Fold in chopped nuts
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top
- Sprinkle extra chopped nuts on top for a crunchy finish
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack
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Variations
- Classic Banana Nut Cake – Keep it simple with walnuts and a light dusting of powdered sugar
- Banana Nut Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – Add a rich cream cheese layer for extra decadence
- Chocolate Chip Banana Nut Cake – Stir in ½ cup chocolate chips for a sweet twist
- Gluten-Free Banana Nut Cake – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour substitute for a gluten-free version
Pro Tips
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness
- Toast the nuts before adding them for an even richer taste
- Do not overmix the batter—stir just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy
- For extra moisture, substitute oil for butter or add an extra tablespoon of Greek yogurt
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overbaking – This can dry out the cake. Check for doneness at 35 minutes
Skipping the sour cream or yogurt – This ingredient adds moisture and tenderness
Not using ripe bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake
FAQs
Can I Make Banana Nut Cake Without Nuts?
Yes! Simply omit the nuts, or replace them with chocolate chips or shredded coconut
How Do I Store Banana Nut Cake?
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days
- Fridge: Keep in the refrigerator for up to a week
- Freezer: Wrap slices and freeze for up to 3 months
Why Is My Banana Nut Cake Dense?
If your cake turns out too dense, you may have:
- Overmixed the batter
- Used too much flour (spoon and level it instead of scooping)
- Not used fresh baking powder or baking soda
Conclusion
With this easy banana nut cake recipe, you’ll have a moist, fluffy cake bursting with banana flavor and crunchy nuts. Whether you enjoy it plain, with frosting, or with a warm cup of coffee, this cake is sure to impress.
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PrintBanana Nut Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
Make the best banana nut cake recipe with ripe bananas and crunchy nuts. This moist, flavorful cake is easy to bake and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- ¾ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
- ¼ cup chopped nuts for garnish
Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch baking pan.
2. Mix flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Beat butter and brown sugar until fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla.
4. Mix in mashed bananas and sour cream, then fold in dry ingredients and nuts.
5. Pour batter into the pan, top with extra nuts, and bake for 35-40 minutes.
6. Cool before slicing and serving.
Notes
– Use very ripe bananas for natural sweetness.
– Toast the nuts before adding them to enhance their flavor.
– Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for extra moisture.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 24g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g