Banana Pudding Cake: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Dessert

Banana Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the comforting flavors of classic banana pudding and the moist, fluffy texture of cake. This recipe has its roots in Southern cuisine, where banana pudding has long been a beloved staple at family gatherings and potlucks. The combination of creamy vanilla pudding, ripe bananas, and soft cake layers creates a harmonious blend that is both nostalgic and indulgent.

What I love most about Banana Pudding Cake is how it effortlessly combines taste and convenience. The rich, sweet flavor of bananas paired with the lightness of whipped cream makes every bite a heavenly experience. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday party or a simple weeknight treat. Join me as we dive into this scrumptious recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home!

Ingredients:

• For the Cake:
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 3 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 cup ripe bananas, mashed (about 2 medium bananas)
• For the Pudding Layer:
• 1 (5.1 oz) package instant vanilla pudding mix
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For the Whipped Topping:
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• ¼ cup powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• For Garnish:
• 1-2 ripe bananas, sliced
• Vanilla wafers or graham crackers (optional)

Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. This will ensure that your cake comes out easily once baked.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until the mixture is light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined; be careful not to overmix.
5. Fold in the mashed bananas gently using a spatula. This will add that delicious banana flavor to your cake.
6. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure even baking.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on them, as oven temperatures can vary.
8. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Preparing the Pudding Layer

1. While the cakes are cooling, let’s prepare the pudding layer. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and whole milk. Make sure to whisk vigorously to avoid lumps.
2. Add the teaspoon of vanilla extract to the pudding mixture and continue whisking until it thickens, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once thickened, set it aside in the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the whipped topping.

Preparing the Whipped Topping

1. In a large mixing bowl, pour in the heavy whipping cream. Using an electric mixer, beat the cream on medium-high speed until it starts to thicken.
2. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract to the cream. Continue to beat until stiff peaks form. This means that when you lift the beaters out of the cream, the peaks should stand up straight without drooping.
3. Be careful not to overbeat, as this can turn your cream into butter. Once done, set the whipped topping aside in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble the cake.

Assembling the Cake

1. Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate or cake stand. This will be the base layer of your delicious banana pudding cake.
2. Spread half of the prepared pudding mixture evenly over the first cake layer. Make sure to cover it well, as this

Conclusion:

In summary, this Banana Pudding Cake is an absolute must-try for anyone who loves a delightful dessert that combines the classic flavors of banana pudding with the moist, fluffy goodness of cake. The layers of creamy pudding, fresh bananas, and whipped topping create a heavenly experience that will have your taste buds dancing with joy. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a birthday party, or simply indulging yourself on a cozy evening at home, this cake is sure to impress. For serving suggestions, consider pairing this cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of decadence. You can also experiment with variations by adding crushed vanilla wafers for a delightful crunch or incorporating a hint of chocolate for a richer flavor profile. The possibilities are endless, and I encourage you to get creative! I genuinely hope you give this Banana Pudding Cake a try. It’s a recipe that brings comfort and joy, and I would love to hear about your experience. Share your thoughts, any tweaks you made, or even a photo of your creation! Let’s celebrate the joy of baking together, and remember, the best part of cooking is sharing it with others. Happy baking!

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