Berry Bliss Banana Dream Cake Recipe
Servings: 12 | Prep Time: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup mixed fresh berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries)
For the Berry Filling:
- 1 ½ cups mixed fresh berries
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
For the Creamy Banana Frosting:
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for a fluffier texture)
For Garnishing:
- Additional mixed berries
- Fresh mint leaves (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper to ensure the cakes release easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set this dry mixture aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, using an electric mixer, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy—about 3-4 minutes. The butter should turn pale and fluffy, which ensures a soft cake texture.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Mashed Bananas
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Follow with the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth. The banana adds a naturally sweet, moist texture to the cake that pairs perfectly with the berries.
Step 5: Incorporate the Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
On low speed, alternate adding the dry ingredients and the buttermilk to the banana mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Fold in the Berries
Gently fold in the mixed berries using a spatula. Distribute them evenly throughout the batter for bursts of juicy flavor in every bite. If you’re worried about the berries sinking to the bottom, you can toss them in a light dusting of flour before folding them into the batter.
Step 7: Bake the Cakes
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and tap the pans lightly on the counter to release any air bubbles. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Once done, let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 8: Prepare the Berry Filling
While the cakes cool, prepare the berry filling. In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine the mixed berries, sugar, and water. Cook for 5-7 minutes, until the berries start to break down. In a separate small bowl, dissolve the cornstarch in a tablespoon of water, then stir it into the berry mixture. Add the lemon juice and continue cooking until the mixture thickens, about 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and allow it to cool completely before using.
Step 9: Make the Creamy Banana Frosting
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Add the mashed banana and vanilla extract, continuing to mix until well combined. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating on low speed until fully incorporated. If the frosting seems too thick, add the heavy cream to reach your desired consistency. Beat the frosting on medium-high for 1-2 minutes for a light, creamy texture.
Step 10: Assemble the Cake
Once the cakes and berry filling have cooled completely, you can begin assembling the cake. Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of berry filling over the top, creating a flavorful middle layer. Be sure to spread it evenly but leave a small border around the edge to prevent the filling from spilling out when the next layer is added.
Place the second cake layer on top. If your cake has domed slightly during baking, you can level it with a serrated knife to create an even surface for frosting.
Step 11: Frost the Cake
Using an offset spatula, frost the top and sides of the cake with the creamy banana frosting. Start by applying a thin crumb coat to seal in any loose crumbs, then refrigerate the cake for about 20 minutes to set. Once chilled, apply a thicker layer of frosting, smoothing it out for a beautiful finish.
Step 12: Garnish and Serve
For the finishing touch, decorate the top of the cake with fresh berries and mint leaves. This not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the fruity flavor profile of the cake.
Slice and serve your Berry Bliss Banana Dream Cake at room temperature. The moist banana cake combined with the tangy berry filling and rich, creamy frosting will be a hit at any gathering. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Enjoy your dreamy, berry-filled banana cake!
