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Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 89 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: 1 (8-inch) layered cake, about 8-10 slices
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Description

This Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake combines the moist, sweet flavor of ripe bananas with rich cocoa for a decadent dessert experience. Featuring two layers of chocolate banana cake, frosted with a creamy, smooth chocolate buttercream, this recipe is perfect for celebrations or anytime indulgence.

Ingredients

Banana Cake

  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk (or regular milk)
  • 1/2 cup boiling water

Chocolate Frosting

  • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 cups powdered sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2-3 tablespoons milk (more if needed to adjust consistency)
  • 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cake Layers: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, unsweetened cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside for later.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 minutes.
  4. Add Eggs and Flavorings: Incorporate the eggs into the creamed butter and sugar one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then stir in mashed bananas and vanilla extract until uniform throughout.
  5. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture gradually in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix gently after each addition until just combined.
  6. Thin the Batter: Stir in the boiling water last to thin the batter. The batter will be thin, which helps ensure a moist cake.
  7. Divide and Bake: Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared cake pans. Place in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Cool the Cakes: Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  9. Prepare the Frosting: While the cakes are cooling, beat the softened butter in a medium bowl until creamy.
  10. Add Frosting Ingredients: Mix in powdered sugar, unsweetened cocoa powder, salt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
  11. Adjust Frosting Consistency: Slowly add milk one tablespoon at a time until the frosting is smooth and spreadable. Optionally, fold in melted semisweet chocolate for an extra rich flavor.
  12. Assemble the Cake: Place one cooled cake layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of frosting on top.
  13. Add Second Layer and Frost: Place the second cake layer over the first and frost the top and sides with the remaining chocolate frosting.
  14. Garnish and Serve: Optionally decorate with chocolate shavings, banana slices, or sprinkles for a festive look.
  15. Enjoy: Slice the cake into 8-10 pieces and enjoy the rich, moist double chocolate banana flavor!

Notes

  • Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
  • Buttermilk adds tenderness but can be substituted with regular milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
  • Boiling water in the batter helps to bloom the cocoa powder and ensures a moist cake.
  • Make sure cakes are completely cool before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
  • For a dairy-free option, substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
  • The optional melted chocolate in frosting increases richness but can be omitted for a lighter taste.

Find it online: https://slsrecipes.com/double-chocolate-banana-layer-cake-recipe/