Brazilian Banana Cake – The Irish Baker Abroad
Simple, moist and delicious. Don’t throw your overripe bananas away. Give them a second chance with this wonderful cake recipe that is perfect for sharing with family and friends who appreciate heritage food and baking.
Scroll down for US Cup Measurements
Recipe Ingredients
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| Ingredient | Metric | Imperial / US Cups |
|---|---|---|
| Overripe Bananas | 3 large | 3 large |
| Eggs | 4 medium | 4 medium |
| Oil | 200 ml | 3/4 cup |
| Sugar | 220 g | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp | 1/2 tsp |
| Vanilla Essence | 1 tsp | 1 tsp |
| Milk | 180 ml | 3/4 cup |
| Plain Flour | 170 g | 1 1/2 cups |
| Baking Powder | 1 tbsp | 1 tbsp |
Brazilian Banana Cake Video
Method
Start by preparing the bananas: slice each banana in half, then cut into three strips lengthways. Set aside.
In a large bowl, lightly whisk together the eggs, sugar, oil, salt, vanilla essence and milk until well combined. Sieve in the flour and baking powder, then mix to form a smooth batter.
Pour the batter into a 20 x 30 cm cake tin greased with butter and dusted with flour.
Arrange the banana strips on top of the batter. Sprinkle with sugar and cinnamon for an extra flavour boost.
Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (356°F) for about 35 minutes. Check with a skewer or sharp knife to see if it’s cooked through; if not, bake for a few more minutes.
If using a fan oven, reduce the temperature to 160°C (320°F).
How to Store Brazilian Banana Cake
Store your banana cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, keep it in the fridge where it will last up to 5 days. Before serving, warm slightly to bring back its moist texture.
Can You Freeze Brazilian Banana Cake?
Yes, you can freeze this cake! Wrap it tightly in cling film and aluminium foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and warm gently before serving to enjoy its full flavour and moistness.
Why Is My Banana Cake Dry?
Common reasons for dryness include: overbaking, using bananas that are not ripe enough, or not enough oil or moisture in the batter. To keep your cake moist, be sure to use very ripe bananas and check the cake a few minutes before the recommended baking time.
For more delicious baking inspiration, you might enjoy Irish Soda Scones or Chris’s Traditional Irish Soda Bread. Both recipes celebrate simple, hearty ingredients and are perfect for sharing with family.
If you love exploring traditional recipes, try the traditional Irish stew recipe or indulge in the Apple and Cinnamon Traybake for a comforting treat.
For more about Irish food culture and heritage baking, visit our Food and Drink in Ireland section or learn about the Irish Baker Abroad who inspired this recipe.
Experience Authentic Irish Food in Person
Learn to bake authentic Irish scones and bread in a local home in Galway. This is a wonderful way to connect with Irish food culture and bring a real skill home with you.
Book: Traditional Irish Homemade Baking Scones and Bread class in Galway
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