Banana Walnut Cake with Custard is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts. The moist cake is topped with a creamy vanilla custard, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. This cake is not only delicious but also a great way to use up ripe bananas. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just looking for a comforting treat, this cake is sure to please everyone!

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make Banana Walnut Cake with Custard. First, it’s a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of bananas and walnuts. The addition of custard makes it extra special. It’s an easy recipe, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced bakers. Plus, it’s a great dessert for gatherings, and leftovers can be enjoyed the next day. Who wouldn’t want a slice of this tasty cake?

How to Make Banana Walnut Cake with Custard

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup buttermilk (or 1/2 cup milk + 1 tsp vinegar)
3/4 cup chopped walnuts
2 cups milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for custard)
2 tbsp cornstarch
2 egg yolks
1 tbsp butter

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch cake pan.
In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Mix in the mashed bananas and buttermilk until well combined.
Gradually fold in the dry ingredients, then stir in the chopped walnuts.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely.
For the vanilla custard, heat the milk in a saucepan over medium heat until warm.
In a bowl, whisk together the sugar, cornstarch, and egg yolks until smooth.
Slowly pour the warm milk into the egg mixture while whisking constantly.
Return the mixture to the saucepan and cook over low heat, stirring until thickened. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and butter. Let cool.
To assemble and serve, pour the warm vanilla custard over a slice of banana walnut cake. Garnish with extra walnuts or a drizzle of honey. Serve warm or chilled for ultimate comfort!

Pro Tip: Add a caramel drizzle for extra indulgence!

How to Serve Banana Walnut Cake with Custard

Serve Banana Walnut Cake with Custard as a delightful dessert after any meal. It’s best enjoyed warm or chilled, allowing the flavors to shine. You can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or simply as it is with a drizzle of custard on top. Guests will love the combination of moist cake and creamy custard!

How to Store Banana Walnut Cake with Custard

To store leftover Banana Walnut Cake, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The cake will stay fresh for 3 to 4 days. If you have leftover custard, it can also be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Before serving, you can warm the cake slightly in the microwave if desired.

Tips to Make Banana Walnut Cake with Custard

Make sure your bananas are really ripe for the best flavor and sweetness.
Do not overmix the batter; fold in the dry ingredients gently for a light texture.
You can toast the walnuts lightly before adding them to enhance their flavor.
Customize the custard by adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract for a different twist.

Variation

You can try adding chocolate chips for a chocolatey version of this cake or substitute pecans for walnuts if you prefer. For a healthier twist, consider using whole wheat flour and reducing the sugar.

FAQs

Q: Can I freeze the Banana Walnut Cake?
A: Yes! You can freeze the cake without the custard. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and it can last for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Q: How can I make the custard thicker?
A: If you want a thicker custard, you can increase the cornstarch to 3 tablespoons. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may thicken faster.

Q: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
A: Yes, frozen bananas work well! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.

Enjoy making your Banana Walnut Cake with Custard, and have fun sharing this lovely dessert with friends and family!