Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe is not just any ordinary banana cake; it’s a delightful treat that combines simplicity with decadence, resulting in a moist, flavorful dessert that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe is easy to follow and guarantees a delicious outcome every time. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore every aspect of Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe, from its ingredients to its preparation, cooking time, nutritional value, and more. We’ll also provide helpful tips and answer some frequently asked questions to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.

Table of Contents

The Charm of Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe

Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe starts with ripe bananas, which provide natural sweetness and moisture, creating a tender crumb that melts in your mouth. This cake is often described as the best banana cake recipe out there, and for good reason. It strikes the perfect balance between sweetness and richness, making it an irresistible dessert for both casual get-togethers and special celebrations. The addition of a tangy cream cheese frosting elevates the cake to a new level of indulgence, making it a favorite among many.

But what makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a simple snack with a cup of tea, or dress it up with the frosting and some nuts for a more sophisticated dessert. Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe is also an excellent way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste.

Prep Time and Cooking Time

When it comes to baking, time management is crucial. Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe is relatively straightforward, with a prep time of around 20 minutes and a cooking time of 50 to 60 minutes. Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Nutritional Value of Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe

Ina Garten's Banana Cake Recipe

Understanding the nutritional value of what you’re eating is important, especially if you’re mindful of your diet. Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe is rich and indulgent, but it also contains some nutritional benefits thanks to the bananas and other wholesome ingredients. Below is a general estimate of the nutritional value per serving:

Calories: 450
Total Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 85mg
Sodium: 300mg
Total Carbohydrates: 65g
Dietary Fiber: 2g
Sugars: 40g
Protein: 5g

These values may vary slightly depending on the specific ingredients you use and the portion sizes. The cake is high in calories and sugars, so it’s best enjoyed in moderation, especially if you’re watching your caloric intake. However, the bananas provide dietary fiber, and using whole-wheat flour or reducing the sugar can make the cake slightly healthier without sacrificing too much flavor.

Ingredients for Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe

The success of any recipe starts with the quality of the ingredients you use. Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe requires a combination of simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create something extraordinary. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Cake:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 ripe bananas, mashed
½ cup sour cream

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon lemon juice

These ingredients are readily available and can be found in most grocery stores. Make sure your bananas are ripe, as this will enhance the natural sweetness of the cake. If you want to add a little extra texture and flavor, you can also include chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, in the batter or as a topping for the frosting.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe

Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe. Follow these detailed steps, and you’ll have a perfectly baked banana cake in no time.

Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the cake.
Prepare the Baking Pan: Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper. This will prevent the cake from sticking to the pan and make it easier to remove once baked.
Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set this mixture aside.
Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy. This should take about 3 minutes.
Add the Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and mix until combined.
Incorporate the Bananas and Sour Cream: Add the mashed bananas and sour cream to the butter mixture, and mix until well combined. The batter may look slightly curdled at this point, but that’s okay.
Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
Pour the Batter into the Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly with a spatula.
Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top of the cake should be golden brown.
Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is cooling, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting. This tangy, sweet frosting is the perfect complement to the moist banana cake.

Cream the Butter and Cream Cheese: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together using an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth and creamy.
Add the Powdered Sugar: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated. This will prevent the sugar from flying out of the bowl.
Add Vanilla and Lemon Juice: Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy. The lemon juice adds a subtle tang that enhances the overall flavor of the frosting.
Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. You can use a spatula or a piping bag if you want a more decorative finish.
Optional Garnishes: If you like, you can garnish the cake with chopped nuts, banana slices, or a dusting of cinnamon. This adds a nice visual appeal and an extra layer of flavor.

Tips for the Perfect Ina Garten’s Banana Cake

While Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe is relatively simple, there are a few tips and tricks that can help you achieve the best results:

Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with brown spots on the peel.
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature. This ensures that they mix together smoothly, resulting in a better texture.
Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so start checking your cake around the 50-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is done.
Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool completely before applying the frosting. If the cake is still warm, the frosting will melt and slide off.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe gluten-free? Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that contains xanthan gum or another binding agent to ensure the cake holds together well.

2. Can I freeze the banana cake? Absolutely! You can freeze the banana cake (without frosting) for up to three months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Thaw it at room temperature before frosting and serving.

3. Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes? Yes, Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe can be adapted for cupcakes. Simply divide the batter into lined cupcake tins and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

4. How can I make the cake healthier? To make the cake healthier, you can reduce the sugar, use whole-wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour, and replace the butter with applesauce or Greek yogurt. These substitutions will alter the texture and flavor slightly, but the cake will still be delicious.

5. What can I use instead of sour cream? If you don’t have sour cream on hand, you can substitute it with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk. Both will provide the moisture and tang needed for the cake.

6. How do I store the banana cake? Store the banana cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you live in a hot or humid climate, it’s best to refrigerate the cake to prevent the frosting from spoiling. The cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.

7. Can I add chocolate chips or nuts to the batter? Yes, you can add chocolate chips, nuts, or even dried fruit to the batter for extra flavor and texture. Fold them in gently after mixing the wet and dry ingredients together.

Conclusion

Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe is a must-try for anyone who loves baking and enjoys a good banana dessert. Its rich, moist texture and the perfect balance of sweetness make it a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy contrast that complements the banana flavor beautifully. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a treat for yourself, this cake is sure to become a favorite.

With its easy-to-follow instructions, basic ingredients, and versatile nature, Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe is accessible to bakers of all skill levels. The tips provided in this guide will help you achieve the best results, and the FAQ section addresses any questions or concerns you might have.

So why not give Ina Garten’s Banana Cake Recipe a try? Once you taste this delicious dessert, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite among so many. Enjoy baking, and don’t forget to share your results with friends and family – they’re sure to be impressed!