There’s something incredibly comforting about the scent of ripe bananas mingling with warm spices, inviting me into my kitchen like an old friend. That’s how I found myself whipping up this Banana Bread Cake, or Bolo de Farinha de Rosca com Banana, a cherished Brazilian treat that captures the heart of homemade desserts. This cake is unlike any other—imagine a fluffy, moist blend that plays like a symphony between banana French toast and bread pudding, topped with a crunchy layer that adds just the right amount of texture.
Perfect for lazy weekend brunches or as a delightful dessert to impress guests, this recipe allows for creativity with optional toppings, like a homemade caramel drizzle. Whether you’re looking to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter or simply craving a cozy dessert that feels like a warm hug, this cake promises to be a showstopper that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare. So, grab your apron and let’s dive into this delightful Brazilian confection!
Why is Banana Bread Cake so special?
Unique texture: This Banana Bread Cake boasts a delightful blend of moist cake and crunchy topping, creating a satisfying bite.
Irresistibly flavorful: The interplay of ripe bananas, warm spices, and optional caramel makes every slice a taste sensation.
Easy to make: With just a handful of ingredients, the straightforward preparation invites even novice bakers to join in on the fun.
Versatile options: Dress it up with nuts or a chocolate drizzle, or keep it simple for a comforting treat.
Crowd pleaser: Perfect for brunches or dinner parties, its luscious flavor and inviting aroma will impress all your guests!
Banana Bread Cake Ingredients
• Perfect for this delightful dessert!
For the Cake
- Whole Milk – Adds moisture to the cake; substitute with almond or soy milk for a dairy-free option.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; for variation, use almond extract instead.
- Egg – Provides structure and richness; consider using a flax egg for a vegan option.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake; swap for brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
- Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and spice; feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg for extra flavor.
- Coarse Breadcrumbs – Acts as the primary structure in place of flour; you can use homemade or store-bought breadcrumbs.
- Ripe Bananas – Provide natural sweetness and moisture; make sure they are very ripe for the best flavor.
- Baking Powder – Serves as a leavening agent for a light cake; no substitutions for the same effect.
- Vegetable Oil – Contributes moisture and richness to the cake; coconut oil makes a flavorful substitute.
For the Topping
- Caramel Sauce (optional) – Adds sweetness and an elegant finish; use store-bought if time is tight.
This Banana Bread Cake (Bolo de Farinha de Rosca com Banana) is a beautiful way to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly special!
How to Make Banana Bread Cake
-
Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures it reaches the perfect baking temperature while you prepare the batter.
-
Prepare Topping: In a bowl, whisk together whole milk, vanilla extract, egg, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix in coarse breadcrumbs and let them soak for about 10 minutes to absorb all that flavor.
-
Mix Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine more fine breadcrumbs, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Then, blend ripe bananas, milk, sugar, and vegetable oil in a blender until nice and smooth.
-
Combine Mixtures: Gently fold the blended mixture into the dry breadcrumb mix until everything is fully combined and well-combined but don’t overmix.
-
Assemble Cake: Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, then layer that soaked breadcrumb topping over it, and arrange banana slices on top for a beautiful finish.
-
Bake: Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out lightly crumbly—this indicates a perfectly baked cake!
-
Prepare Caramel Sauce (optional): If you opt for the caramel, simmer equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan until it turns light gold. Then, mix in butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and cream until smooth and incorporated.
-
Serve: Drizzle that warm caramel over the cake before serving for an extra touch of indulgence.
Optional: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Cake
Room Temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to keep it longer, place the Banana Bread Cake in the refrigerator, where it will stay good for up to 1 week. Just remember to cover it well!
Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag—enjoy them for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw slices in the fridge overnight, or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds to enjoy warm and tasty!
Tips for the Best Banana Bread Cake
-
Choose Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are very ripe, as they provide the best natural sweetness and moisture for the Banana Bread Cake.
-
Don’t Overmix: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, fold gently to keep the cake fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
-
Soak Breadcrumbs Well: Allow the coarse breadcrumbs to soak long enough in the milk mixture—this helps form that lovely crunchy topping while retaining moisture in the cake.
-
Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary, so using an oven thermometer can help ensure accurate baking temperature for perfectly cooked Banana Bread Cake.
-
Cool Before Serving: Let the cake cool slightly before cutting; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for cleaner slices.
Make Ahead Options
These flavorful Banana Bread Cake (Bolo de Farinha de Rosca com Banana) preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can mix the batter and assemble the cake up to 24 hours in advance, covering the pan tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Additionally, the crumb topping can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days—just keep it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the batter into your greased pan, add the topping, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy all the comfort and deliciousness with minimal effort, making it just as delightful as when made fresh!
Banana Bread Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this recipe to your taste preferences with these delightful twists!
- Dairy-Free: Swap whole milk with almond or soy milk for a creamy texture without the dairy.
- Nutty Crunch: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and depth of flavor that brings warmth to every bite.
- Vegan Twist: Use a flax egg as a replacement for traditional eggs to make this cake completely vegan while keeping it moist and delicious.
- Chocolate Decadence: Replace caramel sauce with a rich chocolate drizzle for a sweeter variation that chocolate lovers will adore.
- Fruity Boost: Add applesauce or pureed berries to the batter for a fresh flavor kick that’s a delightful surprise in each slice.
- Spicy Alternative: Incorporate a dash of nutmeg or ginger for a unique, spicy profile that complements the sweetness of bananas beautifully.
- Coconut Delight: Substitute vegetable oil with coconut oil to give the cake a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with bananas.
- Zesty Surprise: Add a touch of grated lemon or orange zest for a fresh and zesty contrast to the cake’s natural sweetness.
Each variation opens up a new way to enjoy this comforting dessert, inviting you to explore flavors and textures that are uniquely yours!
What to Serve with Banana Bread Cake?
Pairing this delightful Brazilian treat with the right accompaniments can take your dessert experience to the next level.
-
Vanilla Ice Cream: Adds a creamy contrast to the warm cake, creating a comforting balance of flavors and textures.
-
Fresh Berries: The tartness of berries like raspberries and strawberries cuts through the sweetness and elevates the flavor profile beautifully. A sprinkle of mint leaves can also brighten up the dish!
-
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, it provides a luxurious finish to each slice, enhancing the cake’s moistness while keeping things light.
-
Chocolate Drizzle: A touch of melted dark chocolate enhances the cake’s flavors with rich notes that tantalize the taste buds and offer indulgence.
-
Coffee or Tea: Serve with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a soothing herbal tea to balance the sweetness and create a cozy atmosphere during dessert.
-
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over the cake adds extra sweetness and an elegant touch that pairs perfectly with the banana flavor.
With these delightful pairings, your Banana Bread Cake will become an unforgettable centerpiece for any gathering!
Banana Bread Cake (Bolo de Farinha de Rosca com Banana) Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe bananas for the best flavor?
Absolutely! Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown spots or even fully brown—this indicates they’re perfectly ripe and will provide the best sweetness and moisture for your Banana Bread Cake. Avoid bananas with dark spots all over, as they might be overripe and mushy.
How should I store leftovers of Banana Bread Cake?
Very! Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy the cake longer, refrigerate it for up to 1 week, ensuring it’s well-covered to prevent drying out.
Can I freeze Banana Bread Cake, and how?
Absolutely! To freeze, you’ll want to wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible before sealing. You can enjoy the cake for up to 3 months this way! When you’re ready to indulge, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or warm in the microwave for a delicious treat.
What if my cake ends up too dense?
No worries! A dense texture often results from overmixing the batter. When combining wet and dry ingredients, fold gently until just combined. Also, be sure your baking powder is fresh for proper leavening—always check the expiration date before you start!
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
It’s essential to be mindful! Ingredients like chocolate, nuts, and certain spices can be harmful to pets. Additionally, always check for allergies when sharing this Banana Bread Cake with friends and family. If you need to make it nut-free, simply omit nuts from toppings or substitutions if someone is allergic.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Very! To make a vegan version of Banana Bread Cake, substitute the egg with a flax egg (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken). Additionally, swap whole milk for almond or soy milk, and everything else can typically stay the same for a delicious result!
Moist Banana Bread Cake (Bolo de Farinha de Rosca com Banana) Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
- In a bowl, whisk together whole milk, vanilla extract, egg, granulated sugar, and ground cinnamon. Mix in coarse breadcrumbs and let them soak for about 10 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, combine fine breadcrumbs, baking powder, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Blend ripe bananas, milk, sugar, and vegetable oil in a blender until smooth.
- Gently fold the blended mixture into the dry breadcrumb mix until fully combined but don't overmix.
- Pour the batter into a greased baking pan, then layer the soaked breadcrumb topping over it and arrange banana slices on top.
- Bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out lightly crumbly.
- If using caramel, simmer equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan until light gold, then mix in butter, vanilla, cinnamon, and cream until smooth.
- Drizzle warm caramel over the cake before serving for an extra touch of indulgence.