Banana cake is a soft, moist, and naturally sweet cake made from ripe bananas, flour, eggs, sugar, and butter. In many African homes, it is a popular snack, dessert, or tea-time treat because it uses simple ingredients that are easy to find.
This African-style banana cake recipe focuses on rich banana flavor, moist texture, and simple preparation without complicated baking tools.
What Is Banana Cake?
Banana cake is a baked dessert prepared using mashed ripe bananas mixed into a cake batter. The bananas provide natural sweetness, moisture, and a soft texture.
In African kitchens, banana cake is often less sweet than Western versions and may include local ingredients like vegetable oil instead of butter.
Ingredients for African Style Banana Cake
You will need the following ingredients:
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3 ripe bananas (very soft for best flavor)
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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2 eggs
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½ cup sugar
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½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon vanilla flavor (optional)
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A pinch of salt
Step-by-Step Banana Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bananas
Peel the ripe bananas and mash them in a bowl until smooth.
Very ripe bananas give the best sweetness and aroma.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together:
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Eggs
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Sugar
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Oil or melted butter
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Vanilla flavor
Add the mashed bananas and mix well.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix:
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Flour
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Baking powder
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Baking soda
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Salt
Step 4: Mix Batter
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture.
Stir gently until combined. Do not overmix to keep the cake soft.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
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Grease a baking pan
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Pour the batter into the pan
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Bake at medium heat (about 180°C) for 35–45 minutes
The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool before slicing and serving.
Nutritional Benefits of Banana Cake
Rich in Energy
Bananas and flour provide carbohydrates for quick energy.
Good Source of Potassium
Bananas contain potassium, which supports heart and muscle health.
Provides Protein
Eggs add protein needed for body repair and growth.
Tips for a Perfect Banana Cake
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Use very ripe bananas for better flavor
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Do not overmix the batter
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Measure ingredients correctly
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Allow the cake to cool before slicing
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Bake at moderate heat to prevent burning
Popular African Variations
Banana cake can be customized in many ways:
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Banana coconut cake
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Banana groundnut cake
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Banana spice cake with cinnamon
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Banana chocolate chip cake
How to Store Banana Cake
You can store banana cake:
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At room temperature for 2 days
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In the refrigerator for up to 1 week
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In the freezer for up to 2 months
Always keep it in an airtight container.
Best Times to Serve Banana Cake
Banana cake is perfect for:
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Breakfast
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Evening tea snacks
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School snacks for children
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Celebrations and family gatherings
African-style banana cake is a simple, delicious, and affordable dessert that can be made with everyday ingredients. Its moist texture, natural sweetness, and rich flavor make it a favorite snack for families.
With just a few easy steps, you can enjoy homemade banana cake anytime.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make banana cake without eggs?
Yes. You can replace eggs with yogurt or mashed bananas.
Why is my banana cake dry?
This happens when the cake is overbaked or lacks enough banana.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
Yes, but the texture will be slightly denser.
How ripe should bananas be?
They should be very soft, with brown spots, for the best sweetness.
