Are you looking for a dessert that is easy to make and will satisfy your sweet tooth? Look no further than the Silver Palate Banana Cake. This recipe is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration or a simple afternoon snack with friends. The best part? It’s made with ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
- 1 stick (1/2 cup) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium)
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- In another mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the mashed bananas, sour cream, and vanilla. Mix well after each addition.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve and enjoy!
Nutritional Information
One serving of Silver Palate Banana Cake (1/12 of the cake) contains approximately:
- Calories: 256
- Total Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 58mg
- Sodium: 246mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 37g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 23g
- Protein: 3g
Cooking Time
The total cooking time for this recipe is approximately 50-55 minutes, including preparation time.
Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan
- Mixing bowls
- Mixing spoon or electric mixer
- Wire rack
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Silver Palate Banana Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also dust the top with powdered sugar or drizzle with chocolate sauce.
Variations
You can add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to the batter for extra crunch. You can also stir in chocolate chips or dried fruit, such as raisins or cranberries, for added flavor.
Substitutions
If you don’t have sour cream, you can use plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk instead. You can also substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour for a healthier or gluten-free version of the cake.
Storage
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Thaw the cake at room temperature before serving.
Tips
- Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before creaming it with the sugar. This will ensure a smooth and creamy batter.
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and texture. If your bananas are not ripe enough, you can ripen them quickly by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or a tomato for a day or two.
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough and dense cake. Mix until just combined.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and breaking apart.
Notes
This recipe is adapted from The Silver Palate Cookbook by Julee Rosso and Sheila Lukins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas that have been thawed. Make sure to drain any excess liquid before mashing them.
Can I make this cake in a different size pan?
You can use a different size pan, but the baking time may vary. Adjust the baking time accordingly and check the cake for doneness with a toothpick.
Can I use oil instead of butter?
You can use vegetable oil or coconut oil instead of butter, but the texture and flavor of the cake may be slightly different.
The Silver Palate Banana Cake is a classic recipe that never goes out of style. It’s easy to make, moist, and deliciously sweet. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced pro, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab your mixing bowl and get ready to indulge in a slice of heaven!