Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake

A Decadent and Nutty Delight

This Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake is a luscious dessert that brings together the rich flavors of ripe bananas, crunchy walnuts, and velvety cream. It features a moist banana cake layered with a smooth, lightly sweetened cream filling and topped with toasted walnuts for a delightful crunch. Perfect for special occasions, afternoon tea, or whenever you crave a slice of indulgence, this cake is both comforting and impressive.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and flavorful: The combination of bananas and walnuts creates a perfectly tender cake.
• Creamy and dreamy filling: The rich cream filling adds a luxurious texture.
• Easy to make: Despite its elegant presentation, this cake is surprisingly simple.
• Perfect for any occasion: Whether for birthdays, holidays, or a weekend treat, this cake is a showstopper.

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Ingredients

For the Banana Walnut Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• ½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
• 1 cup walnuts, chopped

For the Cream Filling:

• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 3 tablespoons powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup cream cheese, softened (optional, for extra richness)

For the Topping:

• ½ cup walnuts, toasted and chopped
• Honey or caramel drizzle (optional)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Mix in mashed bananas and sour cream (or yogurt) until fully incorporated.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Fold in chopped walnuts.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

7. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
8. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Cream Filling

10. In a chilled mixing bowl, beat heavy whipping cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form.
11. If using cream cheese, beat it separately until smooth, then fold into the whipped cream mixture.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

12. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread half of the cream filling evenly on top.
13. Place the second cake layer over the filling and spread the remaining cream over the top.
14. Sprinkle toasted walnuts over the top, and drizzle with honey or caramel if desired.

Step 5: Chill and Serve

15. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before slicing to allow flavors to meld.
16. Slice and enjoy!

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Variations

• Nut-Free Option: Replace walnuts with chocolate chips or omit them altogether.
• Extra Moist Cake: Add an additional mashed banana or ¼ cup of vegetable oil.
• Spiced Twist: Add nutmeg or cardamom for a warm, aromatic flavor.
• Frosted Version: Replace the cream filling with a cream cheese or buttercream frosting for a richer experience.

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Servings and Timing

• Servings: 10–12 slices
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Cooling & Chilling Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
• Reheating: Serve chilled or bring to room temperature before eating.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How ripe should the bananas be for this cake?

The bananas should be very ripe, with brown spots, as they provide more sweetness and moisture.

Can I use a different type of nut?

Yes! Pecans or almonds work well as substitutes for walnuts.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.

Can I use a different frosting instead of the cream filling?

Yes, cream cheese frosting, buttercream, or even chocolate ganache would be delicious.

How do I toast walnuts?

Spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes until fragrant.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake the cake layers a day in advance, wrap them well, and refrigerate. Assemble before serving.

What can I use instead of sour cream?

Greek yogurt, buttermilk, or even unsweetened applesauce make great substitutes.

Why did my cake turn out dense?

Overmixing the batter or using underripe bananas can result in a denser cake. Mix until just combined.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing and adding to the batter.

Can I make cupcakes instead?

Yes! Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 18–20 minutes.

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Conclusion

This Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake is the perfect combination of moist banana cake, crunchy walnuts, and creamy filling. Whether served as a birthday treat, holiday dessert, or casual indulgence, its flavors and textures will leave everyone wanting more. Try this recipe today and enjoy a truly delightful homemade cake!

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