Introduction
Banana Magic Cake is a delightful and unique dessert that brings together the rich flavor of bananas with a magical baking process. This cake features three distinct layers that form as it bakes: a soft, custard-like middle, a fluffy top, and a denser base. It's the perfect treat for banana lovers and is sure to impress your family and friends with its stunning appearance and delicious taste.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
500 ml milk, lukewarm
4 eggs, separated
150 g granulated sugar
1 tablespoon water
125 g unsalted butter, melted
115 g all-purpose flour
1 ripe banana, mashed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: 9 servings
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 160°C and grease a 20 cm square baking dish.
2. In a mixing bowl, beat the egg yolks with sugar and water until pale and creamy.
3. Stir in the melted butter, mashed banana, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
4. Gradually add the flour and salt, mixing gently until incorporated.
5. Slowly pour in the warm milk, stirring continuously to prevent lumps.
6. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form.
7. Gently fold the egg whites into the batter in three additions, leaving some lumps for texture.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
9. Allow to cool completely before slicing.
10. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, if desired.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Preheat the oven
Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F) and grease a 20 cm square baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Beat egg yolks
In a mixing bowl, combine the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and water. Beat the mixture until it becomes pale and creamy in texture.
3. Add wet ingredients
Stir in the melted unsalted butter, mashed banana, and vanilla extract. Mix the ingredients until they are well combined.
4. Incorporate dry ingredients
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and salt to the mixture while gently stirring until fully incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
5. Add warm milk
Slowly pour in the lukewarm milk, continuing to stir constantly to avoid any lumps from forming in the batter.
6. Beat egg whites
In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until stiff peaks form, which indicates that they are well aerated.
7. Fold egg whites
Gently fold the beaten egg whites into the batter in three additions, ensuring to leave some lumps for added texture in the cake.
8. Bake the cake
Pour the prepared batter into the greased baking dish and place it in the oven. Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set.
9. Cool before slicing
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing it into squares.
10. Dust with powdered sugar
If desired, dust the cooled cake with powdered sugar for added sweetness and presentation just before serving.
Notes
Storage
Store leftover Banana Magic Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days for optimal freshness.
Serving suggestion
This cake can be served chilled or at room temperature. Pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Substitutions
You can substitute the ripe banana with other fruit purees, such as apple or pear, for a different flavor profile.
Texture
The cake will have three distinct layers: a custard-like bottom, a soft center, and a light, fluffy top, creating a unique texture experience.
Customizations
Feel free to add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg for additional flavor, or mix in chocolate chips or nuts for extra richness.
Storage Instructions
Refrigeration
Store the Banana Magic Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezing
If you want to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the cake. Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. To serve, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before enjoying.
Serving Suggestions
Presentation
Serve the Banana Magic Cake chilled or at room temperature. A dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant touch.
Toppings
Consider adding sliced fresh bananas on top or a dollop of whipped cream for extra flavor. A drizzle of caramel sauce can also enhance its sweetness and presentation.
Pairing
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a side of fresh berries for a refreshing contrast.
Nutritional Information
Calories
Each serving of Banana Magic Cake contains approximately 200 calories.
Macronutrients
Total Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 100mg
Total Carbohydrates: 29g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 15g
Protein: 4g
Ingredient Substitutions
Milk
You can replace cow's milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
Granulated Sugar
For a healthier option, use coconut sugar or a sugar alternative like stevia or agave syrup, adjusting the quantity according to sweetness preference.
Unsalted Butter
Replace melted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine for a vegan alternative.
All-Purpose Flour
If you want a gluten-free option, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Banana
In case you don't have ripe bananas, you can use applesauce or pureed pumpkin as a substitute, although the flavor will be slightly different.
Cook Techniques
Separation of Eggs
Separating the egg yolks from the whites is crucial to achieve the signature fluffy texture of the Banana Magic Cake. Ensure no yolks are mixed with the whites for the best results.
Whipping Egg Whites
Beating the egg whites until stiff peaks form is essential. This step incorporates air into the batter, which contributes to the cake’s lightness. Use a clean, dry bowl to achieve optimal volume.
Folding Technique
When combining the beaten egg whites with the batter, use a gentle folding technique. This helps retain the airiness while incorporating the whites without deflating them.
Gradual Incorporation of Milk
Pour the lukewarm milk slowly into the batter while stirring continuously. This technique helps prevent lumps and ensures a smooth mixture.
Baking Time and Temperature
Bake the Banana Magic Cake at 160°C for 50-55 minutes until the top is golden brown. Ensure not to open the oven door during the first 30 minutes to maintain the heat.
Cooling Process
Allow the cake to cool completely in the baking dish before slicing. This helps the layers set properly and makes it easier to cut clean slices.
FAQ
Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like strawberries or raspberries, but the texture and flavor will vary.
How should I store leftover Banana Magic Cake?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend, though the texture may differ.
Why did my cake not develop layers?
Improper folding of the egg whites or insufficient whipping may cause the layers to not form correctly.
What can I serve with Banana Magic Cake?
This cake pairs well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or a caramel sauce for an extra indulgent dessert.
Conclusion
Banana Magic Cake is a delightful and whimsical dessert that showcases the deliciousness of bananas while providing a unique texture experience. With its three distinct layers, this cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also makes for an impressive treat for gatherings or special occasions. Enjoy the luscious taste and enchanting presentation of this magical cake!
More recipes suggestions and combination
Chocolate Banana Magic Cake
Add cocoa powder to the batter for a rich chocolate flavor, complementing the banana perfectly for a decadent twist.
Coconut Banana Magic Cake
Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a tropical flair, enhancing the bananacake with a subtle coconut sweetness.
Nutty Banana Magic Cake
Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor, creating a delightful contrast to the soft, custard-like layers.
Banana Caramel Magic Cake
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving to add a luscious, sweet finish that pairs beautifully with the banana flavor.
Spiced Banana Magic Cake
Add cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm, spiced flavor profile, perfect for fall or winter gatherings.
Berry Banana Magic Cake
Incorporate fresh berries like blueberries or strawberries into the batter for an extra burst of flavor and vibrant color.
Banana Magic Cake Parfait
Layer pieces of the Banana Magic Cake with whipped cream and sliced bananas for a fun and elegant dessert parfait.
Vegan Banana Magic Cake
Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use plant-based milk for a vegan-friendly version that maintains the magic of the original recipe.
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