Banana Walnut Cake Recipe: Soft, Moist and Easy to Make at Home

There's nothing quite like the aroma of a freshly baked banana walnut cake filling your home. Made with ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts, this classic cake is soft, moist, and packed with natural sweetness. It's a great way to use overripe bananas while creating a delicious treat that's perfect for breakfast, tea time, or dessert.
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Whether you're a beginner or an experienced baker, this easy banana walnut cake recipe requires simple pantry ingredients and delivers bakery-style results every time.

Why You'll Love This Banana Walnut Cake

  • Soft, moist, and fluffy texture
  • Naturally sweet from ripe bananas
  • Crunchy walnuts add a delicious bite
  • Easy one-bowl recipe
  • Perfect for snacks, celebrations, or gifting
  • Great way to use overripe bananas

Ingredients

  • 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
  • 1½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
  • ¾ cup sugar (brown sugar or regular sugar)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ cup milk
  • ½ cup chopped walnuts
  • Extra walnuts for topping (optional)

How to Make Banana Walnut Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oven

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease and line an 8-inch cake tin with parchment paper.


Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, combine:
  • Flour
  • Baking powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
Mix well and keep aside.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Mixture

In another bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.


Add the mashed bananas and mix until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Pour in the milk and gently fold everything together.

Do not overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Fold in the chopped walnuts.


Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin. Sprinkle a few extra walnuts on top.

Bake for 35-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the tin for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips for the Best Banana Walnut Cake

  • Use overripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake soft.
  • Toast the walnuts lightly before adding them for extra flavor.
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, aromatic twist.
  • Let the cake cool completely before slicing for neat pieces.

Optional Add-ins

You can customize your banana walnut cake with:
  • Chocolate chips
  • Raisins
  • Chopped dates
  • Shredded coconut
  • Nutmeg or cinnamon
  • Honey drizzle after baking

How to Store Banana Walnut Cake

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to one week. You can also freeze individual slices for up to 2 months and thaw them whenever needed.


Serving Suggestions

Banana walnut cake tastes delicious with:
  • A hot cup of tea
  • Freshly brewed coffee
  • Vanilla ice cream
  • Whipped cream
  • Honey or caramel sauce
  • Fresh banana slices

Nutritional Benefits

Bananas provide potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness, while walnuts are rich in healthy fats, protein, and antioxidants. Together, they make this cake more nutritious than many traditional desserts, though it should still be enjoyed in moderation.

This banana walnut cake recipe is simple, comforting, and incredibly satisfying. With its moist texture, rich banana flavor, and crunchy walnuts, it's a homemade treat that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're baking for family, guests, or simply using up ripe bananas, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.