How to Make the Ultimate Banana Cake Recipe with Oil in 5 Easy Steps
There’s something comforting about the sweet aroma of banana cake baking in the oven. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or enjoy a simple treat with your family, a banana cake made with oil is the perfect choice. Unlike butter, oil gives your cake an incredibly moist texture that stays fresh for days. Follow this guide to learn how to make the ultimate banana cake recipe with oil in just five easy steps.
Why Use Oil in Banana Cake?
Using oil instead of butter is a game-changer when it comes to baking banana cake. Oil ensures a soft and tender crumb while keeping the cake moist for longer. Butter adds richness but can make the cake denser, while oil keeps it light and fluffy. Additionally, oil blends seamlessly with the other ingredients, making the mixing process easier for beginners.
| Ingredient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Oil | Moist texture, longer shelf life |
| Butter | Rich flavor, denser texture |
Essential Ingredients for Banana Cake Recipe with Oil
Before you start, gather the following ingredients to ensure your baking process is smooth and hassle-free:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Ripe Bananas | 3 medium |
| All-Purpose Flour | 2 cups |
| Granulated Sugar | 1 cup |
| Vegetable Oil | 1/2 cup |
| Eggs | 2 large |
| Baking Powder | 1 tsp |
| Baking Soda | 1 tsp |
| Vanilla Extract | 1 tsp |
| Salt | 1/2 tsp |
Using ripe bananas is crucial as they are naturally sweeter and easier to mash, giving your cake a deep banana flavor. Vegetable oil, such as canola or sunflower oil, works best due to its neutral taste.
Step 1 – Mash the Bananas
Start by mashing your bananas to create a smooth, lump-free consistency. Use a fork or a potato masher to break down the bananas in a large mixing bowl. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a blender, but avoid over-pureeing as some texture enhances the cake’s flavor.
- Pro Tip: Overripe bananas with dark spots are perfect for baking, as they’re sweeter and more aromatic.
Step 2 – Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, oil, and vanilla extract. Once combined, fold in the mashed bananas. Mixing the wet ingredients first ensures an even distribution, preventing lumps when you add the dry ingredients later.
- Pro Tip: Whisking the sugar and eggs together first helps create a lighter batter by incorporating air into the mixture.
Step 3 – Mix the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Sifting eliminates any lumps and ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently to avoid overmixing. Overmixing can result in a dense cake, so mix just until no streaks of flour remain.
Step 4 – Pour and Bake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan. You can grease the pan with oil or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. Pour the batter into the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Baking Tip: Place the pan on the middle rack to ensure even cooking. Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Step 5 – Cool and Serve
Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling prevents the cake from breaking apart and enhances its flavor. Once cool, slice and serve. For an extra touch, you can dust the top with powdered sugar or spread a layer of cream cheese frosting.
Nutrition Information
Understanding the nutritional breakdown of your banana cake can help you enjoy it guilt-free. Here’s a quick overview:
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 3g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Sugar | 20g |
| Fiber | 2g |
Tips for the Perfect Banana Cake Every Time
- Choose the Right Bananas: Overripe bananas are sweeter and more flavorful, enhancing the cake’s taste.
- Avoid Overmixing: Stir the batter gently to keep the cake light and airy.
- Don’t Skip the Cooling Process: Letting the cake cool fully ensures it holds its shape when sliced.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Incorporate chocolate chips, nuts, or cinnamon for added flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I substitute oil with butter in this banana cake recipe with oil? Yes, but using butter will result in a denser texture and slightly different flavor. Oil is recommended for a moist and tender cake.
Q2: What type of oil works best for this recipe? Neutral oils like vegetable, canola, or sunflower oil are ideal as they don’t overpower the banana’s flavor.
Q3: How can I make this banana cake recipe with oil gluten-free? You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. Ensure the blend contains xanthan gum for the best results.
Q4: Can I add frosting to this banana cake? Absolutely! Cream cheese frosting pairs beautifully with banana cake. You can also use chocolate ganache or a simple glaze.
Conclusion
Making the ultimate banana cake recipe with oil is easier than you might think. With just five simple steps and a handful of ingredients, you can create a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is a foolproof way to impress your friends and family. So, grab those ripe bananas and start baking—your taste buds will thank you!
