Indulgent Chocolate Banana Layer Cake Recipe

Why This Cake Recipe is Perfect

Discover why this indulgent dessert is a must-try for any chocolate and banana lover. With a perfect balance of rich chocolate flavor and sweet banana essence, this cake is moist, decadent, and sure to impress your family and friends.

Highlights:

• Moist, rich chocolate layers
• Creamy banana filling
• Glossy chocolate ganache topping

Step-by-Step Chocolate Banana Cake Recipe Guide

Ingredients

Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

Banana Cream Filling:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 8 oz (225 g) cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream (cold)

Chocolate Ganache Topping:

• 150 g dark chocolate, chopped
• 1/2 cup heavy cream

Garnish:

• Fresh banana slices
• Chocolate shavings (optional)

Instructions

1. Make the Chocolate Cake Layers

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line three 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pans.
• In a large bowl, sift together flour, sugar, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Add eggs, milk, oil, and vanilla. Mix until smooth.
• Carefully stir in boiling water; the batter will be thin.
• Divide the batter evenly among the pans and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
• Let cool completely.

2. Prepare the Banana Cream Filling

• In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy.
• Add mashed bananas and vanilla. Mix well.
• Gradually beat in powdered sugar until smooth.
• In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form.
• Gently fold the whipped cream into the banana mixture. Chill for 30 minutes.

3. Make the Ganache

• Heat the cream until just steaming, then pour over chopped chocolate.
• Let sit for 2 minutes, then stir until glossy and smooth.
• Cool slightly until pourable but not runny.

4. Assemble the Cake

• Place one cake layer on a plate. Spread with half of the banana filling.
• Add the second cake layer and spread the rest of the banana filling.
• Top with the final cake layer and pour the ganache over the top. Smooth with a spatula.

5. Decorate and Serve

• Garnish with banana slices and chocolate shavings.
• Refrigerate for 1-2 hours before serving. Best enjoyed chilled.

Key Ingredients That Make This Cake Special

Essential Elements

• Ripe Bananas: Provide natural sweetness and moisture.
• High-Quality Cocoa Powder: For deep, rich chocolate flavor.

Special Touches

• Add a hint of espresso powder to enhance chocolate depth.
• Use Greek yogurt for extra moisture and tenderness.
• Don’t forget a splash of vanilla extract for aroma.

Tips for Baking Success

Pre-Baking Tips:

• Preheat your oven fully before baking.
• Measure accurately using proper measuring tools.

Mixing Techniques:

• Avoid overmixing to maintain a light texture.
• Fold gently to incorporate dry ingredients smoothly.

How to Store and Serve

Storage:

• Method: Place in an airtight container
• Location: Store in the refrigerator

Serving:

• Step: Bring to room temperature before serving
• Enhancement: Add fresh fruit or whipped cream

Enhancements and Variations

Additions:

• Crushed walnuts or pecans for crunch
• Fresh berries for a fruity twist
• Toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flair

Flavor Variations:

• Swap dark chocolate with white chocolate
• Add espresso powder for bolder flavor
• Infuse cake with rum or brandy for an adult version

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Enjoy this decadent dessert as a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion!