What makes this Banana Nut Cake recipe moist?

Using very ripe bananas and the right balance of butter, sugar, and eggs ensures a soft, tender texture. Adding buttermilk or yogurt also contributes to the moistness, making this Banana Nut Cake recipe consistently delicious.

Can I substitute the nuts in this Banana Nut Cake recipe?

Yes, you can swap walnuts or pecans with almonds, hazelnuts, or even sunflower seeds for a nut-free variation while keeping the cake flavorful.

How long does the Banana Nut Cake stay fresh?

Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, this Banana Nut Cake stays fresh for 3–4 days. Refrigeration can extend freshness to up to a week.

Can I make this Banana Nut Cake recipe gluten-free?

Yes, replace the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and ensure baking soda is gluten-free for a moist, flavorful gluten-free Banana Nut Cake.

Banana Nut Cake Recipe – Moist, Easy, and Delicious 2026

Description

A moist and flavorful banana cake studded with crunchy nuts, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat. This cake combines ripe bananas, butter, and a touch of cinnamon for a comforting, classic flavor. Top with cream cheese frosting or a simple glaze for extra indulgence.

Ingredients

Scale

🛒 Ingredients (for one 9-inch round cake):

For the Cake:

2–3 very ripe bananas, mashed
2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar, packed
3 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
1 cup chopped walnuts or pecans

For the Frosting (Optional):

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For Garnish (Optional):

Chopped nuts for topping
Banana slices for decoration

Instructions

📝 Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare Cake

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
In a large bowl, cream together butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla.
Mix in mashed bananas. Gradually add dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk until smooth. Fold in chopped nuts.
Pour batter into prepared pan and bake 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely.

Step 2: Frost Cake (Optional)

Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, beating until creamy.
Spread frosting over cooled cake.

Step 3: Decorate

Sprinkle with chopped nuts or arrange banana slices on top for an attractive finish.

Notes

Banana Tip: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake.
Nut Variations: Walnuts, pecans, or a mix work well. Toast for extra flavor.
Make Ahead: Cake can be baked a day in advance; frost just before serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes
Category: Dessert / Quick Bread Cake
Method: Baked
Cuisine: American