Easy Banana Cake with Walnuts & Chocolate Ganache

History and Cultural Significance

Banana cakes have been cherished worldwide for decades. Their popularity surged during the Great Depression when resourceful bakers sought ways to use overripe bananas instead of wasting them. Over time, banana bread became a staple in many households, evolving into various forms like muffins, pancakes, and cakes.

In Scandinavian countries, the Banankage (banana cake) is beloved for its simplicity and flavor. Adding walnuts to the mix is a nod to classic American banana bread, while the chocolate ganache layer brings a luxurious European twist. This fusion of flavors and cultures is part of what makes Banana Cake with Walnuts and Chocolate Ganache universally appealing.

Beyond its global appeal, this cake holds sentimental value for many people. It often evokes memories of family gatherings, Sunday baking sessions, and cozy mornings. Its versatility means it can be enjoyed at any time of the day—whether as a breakfast treat, afternoon snack, or dessert centerpiece.

Banana Cake with Walnuts and Chocolate Ganache

Print Recipe

Print Recipe

This Banana Cake with Walnuts and Chocolate Ganache is a moist, flavorful treat combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of walnuts. Topped with a rich, silky chocolate ganache, it’s the perfect balance of nutty, fruity, and chocolaty goodness—ideal for dessert, coffee breaks, or any special occasion.

• Author: admin
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: 8-10 slices 1x
• Category: Cookies

Ingredients

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For the Banana Cake:

• 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150 g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• ½ cup (120 ml) buttermilk (or milk with 1 teaspoon lemon juice)
• ¾ cup (90 g) chopped walnuts

For the Chocolate Ganache:

• 1 cup (170 g) dark chocolate chips or chopped chocolate
• ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream

Topping (Optional):

• Extra chopped walnuts
• Banana slices
• Chocolate shavings

Instructions

• Preheat & Prepare:
  Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch (20 cm) round cake pan with parchment paper.

• Mix Dry Ingredients:
  In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

• Make the Batter:
  In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Add the mashed bananas and mix until combined.

• Combine Ingredients:
  Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Fold in the chopped walnuts.

• Bake the Cake:
  Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

• Prepare the Chocolate Ganache:
  Heat the heavy cream until just simmering. Pour over the chocolate and let sit for 2 minutes. Stir until smooth and glossy.

• Frost the Cake:
  Once the cake is completely cool, spread the ganache evenly over the top.

• Decorate & Serve:
  Garnish with extra walnuts, banana slices, or chocolate shavings if desired. Slice and enjoy!

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Notes

🛠️ Recommended Tools:

• Mixing bowls (for wet and dry ingredients)
• Whisk and spatula
• Loaf or round cake tin (8-inch recommended)
• Parchment paper (for easy cake removal)
• Cooling rack
• Offset spatula (for spreading ganache)

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 8 slices
• Calories: 320 kcal per slice

Keywords: Banana Cake with Walnuts and Chocolate Ganache

Common Mistakes and Troubleshooting

Mistakes to Avoid:

• Overmixing: Results in a dense texture. Stir gently until combined.
• Runny Ganache: Use equal parts cream and chocolate; chill if too thin.
• Sinking Walnuts: Toss nuts in flour before adding to the batter.

Quick Fixes:

• Too dense? Reduce flour and avoid overmixing.
• Overbaked? Brush with simple syrup for moisture.
• Bitter ganache? Use higher quality chocolate or adjust sugar in the cake.

About Banankage

Banankage, a traditional Scandinavian banana cake, combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunch of walnuts, creating a delightful texture. Infused with a touch of cardamom, this cake offers a warm and exotic flavor profile. The crowning glory is a rich chocolate ganache that elevates this dessert to a whole new level, making it perfect for celebrations or as a comforting treat on a quiet evening.

Why This Recipe Stands Out

• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of bananas, walnuts, and cardamom adds a unique twist, distinguishing Banankage from your typical cakes.
• Decadent Ganache: The ganache not only looks impressive but also offers a rich chocolate flavor that complements the cake perfectly.
• Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels.
• Perfectly Moist: The use of ripe bananas ensures that the cake remains moist and delicious.

Tips for Perfecting Your Banankage

• Choose the Right Bananas: For best results, use overripe bananas that are soft and speckled. Their natural sweetness enhances the flavor of the cake.
• Experiment with Nuts: While walnuts add a lovely crunch, feel free to substitute with pecans or exclude nuts entirely for a nut-free option.
• Store Properly: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or freeze for longer storage.
• Enhance with Spices: Consider adding cinnamon or nutmeg for additional warmth and flavor complexity.