Delia Smith’s Banana Cake Recipe

Delia Smith’s Banana Cake is a beloved British dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a moist, fluffy texture, making it a comfort food favorite. This cake is wonderfully simple yet incredibly satisfying, striking the perfect balance between richness and lightness.

The recipe, originally from Delia Smith’s extensive catalog of cookbooks, has gained a reputation for being both reliable and foolproof. The ingredients are easy to find, and the process is accessible even to novice bakers, which makes this cake a go-to for anyone wanting to bake a crowd-pleasing treat.

Delia’s version of Banana Cake is also versatile. You can make it as a single-layer cake, add frosting for extra indulgence, or serve it plain as a more understated dessert.

It is often praised for the moistness of the crumb, which comes from the mashed bananas that act as a natural moistener. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, a coffee morning, or as an afternoon snack, this banana cake is bound to be a hit.

Delia Smith’s Banana Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make Delia Smith’s Banana Cake, you will need the following ingredients:

• Bananas (2-3 ripe): The star ingredient that brings flavor and moisture to the cake. The riper the bananas, the better, as they provide extra sweetness and depth of flavor.
• Self-raising flour (225g): This ensures the cake rises properly and has a light, fluffy texture. If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can substitute with plain flour and add baking powder.
• Butter (115g): Softened butter helps create a tender crumb and adds richness to the cake.
• Caster sugar (175g): For the perfect sweetness without being too overpowering. You can adjust the amount of sugar based on how sweet you like your cake.
• Eggs (2 large): Eggs help bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake.
• Baking powder (1 tsp): Although self-raising flour already contains leavening agents, the additional teaspoon of baking powder helps the cake rise even more.
• Milk (2 tbsp): A small amount of milk helps adjust the consistency of the batter, making it just right for pouring into the cake tin.
• Vanilla extract (1 tsp): Adds a lovely depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the cake.

Equipment Needed

Here is a list of the equipment you’ll need to make Delia Smith’s Banana Cake:

• Mixing bowls: For combining the dry and wet ingredients separately.
• Electric mixer or whisk: While you can mix by hand, an electric mixer makes the process quicker and easier, especially for creaming the butter and sugar together.
• Spatula or spoon: For scraping down the sides of the bowl and ensuring all the ingredients are incorporated.
• Cake tin (20 cm or 8-inch): A round or square tin works well for this recipe. The tin should be greased or lined with parchment paper to prevent the cake from sticking.
• Cooling rack: After baking, the cake should cool on a rack to allow air to circulate and prevent it from becoming soggy.
• Sieve (optional): For sifting the flour and baking powder if you want to ensure they are thoroughly mixed before adding them to the wet ingredients.

Step-by-Step Guide To Make Delia Smith’s Banana Cake

1. Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F) for conventional ovens or 160°C (325°F) for fan-assisted ovens. Grease and line your cake tin with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the bananas: Peel the ripe bananas and mash them thoroughly with a fork in a small bowl. Set aside.
3. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and caster sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer on medium speed. If doing it by hand, you can use a wooden spoon, but it will take longer.
4. Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
5. Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the self-raising flour and baking powder together. This ensures that they are evenly distributed and that there are no lumps.
6. Add the mashed bananas: Gently fold in the mashed bananas to the butter and sugar mixture.
7. Add the dry ingredients: Gradually fold the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Mix gently until the batter is smooth and well combined.
8. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cake is golden and a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Cool the cake: Let the cake cool in the tin for about 10 minutes, then turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely.

Mastering The Recipe: Tips And Tricks

• Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake will be. Brown spots on the bananas are a good indication that they are perfect for baking.
• Do not overmix the batter: Once you add the flour, mix only until combined to avoid making the cake dense. Overmixing can cause the cake to become tough.
• Check the cake early: Ovens vary in temperature, so start checking the cake at the 25-minute mark. If a skewer comes out clean, the cake is ready.
• Add a bit of spice: If you like a little extra flavor, you can add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic twist.
• Frosting options: While Delia Smith’s banana cake is delightful on its own, you can make it even more decadent by adding cream cheese frosting or a simple dusting of powdered sugar. A chocolate glaze or buttercream can also make it extra special.

Delia Smith’s Banana Cake is a timeless recipe that brings together the perfect balance of sweetness, moisture, and simplicity. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and is a fantastic way to use up overripe bananas.

Whether you enjoy it plain, with frosting, or even a dollop of whipped cream, this banana cake will undoubtedly become a staple in your baking repertoire. With these detailed steps and tips, you’ll be able to create a moist, delicious cake every time. Happy baking!.

Simple Twists On Delia Smith’s Banana Cake Recipe

Delia Smith’s Banana Cake recipe is a classic that has stood the test of time, loved for its simplicity and rich flavor. However, there’s always room for creativity in the kitchen, especially when it comes to tweaking the recipe to suit personal tastes or dietary preferences. Here are some fun and easy twists you can try on Delia’s original recipe:

1. Add Chocolate Chips: For those who love the combination of banana and chocolate, adding chocolate chips to the batter is an easy way to elevate the flavor profile. The rich, melty chocolate pairs wonderfully with the moist banana base, offering a delightful contrast in both taste and texture. Try dark or milk chocolate, or even white chocolate for an interesting twist!
2. Spices and Zest: While Delia’s recipe is straightforward with its ingredients, you can introduce a touch of warmth and complexity by adding ground cinnamon or nutmeg. These spices blend perfectly with the banana, creating a cozy, comforting flavor. Adding orange or lemon zest also gives the cake a fresh, citrusy zing that complements the banana’s sweetness.
3. Add a Nutty Touch: For some added crunch and depth, chop up some walnuts, pecans, or almonds and fold them into the batter. Nuts not only contribute a satisfying texture but also a toasty flavor that balances the moistness of the banana cake. If you’re feeling adventurous, try toasted coconut flakes for a tropical flair.
4. Go Gluten-Free: For those with dietary restrictions, simply swapping regular flour for a gluten-free flour blend can make the cake accessible to everyone. Many gluten-free flour mixes include xanthan gum to help with texture, so the cake will maintain its fluffiness without any sacrifice in taste.
5. Banana and Peanut Butter: A nostalgic twist for peanut butter lovers-add a swirl of peanut butter into the batter or as a topping after baking. The rich, salty-sweet profile of peanut butter pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, creating a treat that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
6. Vegan Option: For a vegan-friendly version, swap the butter and eggs for plant-based alternatives. Use a vegan butter substitute, and instead of eggs, use mashed flaxseeds or chia seeds mixed with water as an egg replacer. You can also opt for a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk, ensuring that all the creamy texture and flavor remains intact.
7. Caramelized Banana Topping: For extra decadence, caramelize a few banana slices and use them as a topping on the cake. Simply cook banana slices in a pan with a little sugar until golden and bubbly, then arrange them on top of the finished cake for a stunning, sweet finish.

These twists are all about personalizing the banana cake to your tastes or dietary needs while maintaining the spirit of Delia’s easy and delicious recipe.

How To Properly Store Leftovers

Banana cake is delicious, but what do you do when you have leftover slices?

You want to ensure the cake stays as fresh and moist as possible. Here are some tips for storing banana cake to maintain its flavor and texture:

1. Room Temperature Storage: If you plan to eat the cake within a couple of days, it can be stored at room temperature. Place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly with plastic wrap. This will help keep the cake from drying out while maintaining its soft, moist texture. Keep the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
2. Refrigeration: If you need to store the cake for longer than two days, it’s best to refrigerate it. However, refrigeration can sometimes dry out cakes, so ensure that the banana cake is tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or placed in an airtight container before storing it in the fridge. It should stay fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
3. Freezing: For extended storage, you can freeze banana cake. If you want to freeze the entire cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. Alternatively, you can freeze individual slices by wrapping them separately, making it easier to thaw only what you need. When ready to eat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or leave at room temperature for a few hours.
4. Frosting: If your banana cake is frosted (whether with cream cheese frosting, buttercream, or another type), it’s best to refrigerate it, as most frosting types require cooler temperatures to maintain their structure. Similarly, wrap the entire frosted cake or store it in an airtight container to avoid any drying out or contamination of flavors.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your banana cake stays fresh and enjoyable, whether you’re indulging in the last slice the next day or saving it for a special treat later.

What To Eat With Delia Smith’s Banana Cake?

Banana cake is a delightful treat on its own, but it can be even more enjoyable when paired with the right accompaniments. Here are a few ideas on what you can eat alongside Delia Smith’s banana cake to enhance your experience:

1. Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: One of the simplest and most indulgent ways to elevate banana cake is by serving it with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy texture of the whipped cream or ice cream pairs perfectly with the moist, flavorful banana cake, creating a dessert that’s both rich and satisfying.
2. Fresh Fruit: Banana cake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries. The tartness of the berries provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake. For a tropical twist, consider adding some pineapple slices or mango for an exotic flair that complements the banana.
3. Hot Coffee or Tea: A slice of banana cake with a steaming cup of coffee or tea makes for the perfect afternoon snack. The warm flavors of coffee or tea balance the sweetness of the cake, while also enhancing the overall taste experience. Choose a strong black coffee or a light herbal tea depending on your preference.
4. Nuts or Seeds: For those who enjoy a little crunch with their dessert, serving banana cake with a handful of toasted nuts or seeds (such as almonds, walnuts, or sunflower seeds) can add both texture and flavor. The nutty addition offers a nice contrast to the soft, moist banana cake and complements the rich flavors of the dessert.
5. Yogurt: For a lighter pairing, try serving banana cake with a scoop of Greek yogurt. The tanginess of the yogurt cuts through the sweetness of the cake, while also providing a creamy texture that enhances the overall experience. You can also drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the yogurt for an extra touch of sweetness.
6. Caramel or Chocolate Sauce: If you want to go all-out with decadence, drizzle some warm caramel or chocolate sauce over the top of your banana cake. The richness of the sauce adds an extra layer of indulgence, transforming your dessert into something truly special.

By pairing your banana cake with one or more of these options, you can create a dessert spread that’s both varied and satisfying, offering a little something for everyone.

Conclusion

Delia Smith’s Banana Cake is a timeless dessert that offers a wonderful balance of simplicity and flavor. Whether you’re enjoying it as-is or adding your own personal twist, the recipe is versatile enough to accommodate different tastes and dietary needs.

When it comes to storage, proper wrapping and storing techniques will ensure that your cake remains fresh for days, making it a perfect make-ahead treat. And when you’re ready to enjoy your banana cake, consider pairing it with some complementary items like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or even a hot beverage for a delightful experience. With these tips in hand, your banana cake is sure to be a hit every time.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For Delia Smith’s Banana Cake?

Delia Smith’s banana cake recipe requires the following key ingredients: ripe bananas, self-raising flour, butter, sugar, eggs, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. The bananas provide moisture and sweetness, while the self-raising flour ensures a light, fluffy texture. This simple yet delicious combination creates a soft, aromatic cake perfect for any occasion.

Can I Substitute Ingredients In Delia Smith’s Banana Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can make a few substitutions in Delia Smith’s banana cake recipe. If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can substitute it with plain flour and add 2 teaspoons of baking powder per 225g of flour.

For a dairy-free version, you can replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like margarine. The cake can also be made gluten-free by using a gluten-free flour blend, but be sure to check the texture and adjust the baking time accordingly.

How Can I Make Delia Smith’s Banana Cake More Moist?

To make Delia Smith’s banana cake even more moist, ensure you are using very ripe bananas, as they contain more moisture and natural sweetness. You can also try adding a tablespoon of yogurt or sour cream to the batter, which will enhance the cake’s moisture and texture. Another tip is to avoid overbaking, as this can dry out the cake-always check the cake’s doneness with a skewer or toothpick.