Banana Pudding Cake

Banana Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the beloved flavors of classic banana pudding with a moist cake. Layers of tender banana-flavored cake are nestled between creamy banana pudding filling and topped with fluffy whipped frosting. This dessert is not only visually appealing but also a treat for your taste buds. It is perfect for any occasion—birthdays, potlucks, or just as a special treat for yourself. This cake brings together the best of both worlds: a delicious cake and the creaminess of banana pudding.

Why Make This Recipe

Choosing to make Banana Pudding Cake is a decision you won’t regret. This recipe is a great way to showcase ripe bananas and turn them into something far more exciting than just a snack. The combination of textures—from the soft cake layers to the creamy filling and light frosting—creates a dessert that pleases both the eye and the palate. Additionally, this recipe is relatively easy to follow, making it perfect for both seasoned bakers and those just starting in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser; everyone loves the nostalgic flavors of banana pudding!

How to Make Banana Pudding Cake

Making Banana Pudding Cake is a straightforward process that involves baking the cake, preparing the banana pudding filling, and then assembling it all together with whipped frosting. Follow these steps for a delicious result:

Ingredients:

• 2 1/2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 3/4 cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole milk (or buttermilk)

For the Banana Pudding Filling:

• 1 (3.4 oz) box instant banana cream pudding mix
• 1 3/4 cups cold milk
• 1 cup heavy cream (whipped to stiff peaks)

For the Whipped Frosting:

• 2 cups heavy whipping cream
• 1/2 cup powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Extras:

• 3–4 ripe bananas (sliced)
• Crushed Nilla wafers or vanilla cookie crumbs
• Salted caramel sauce (for drizzle)

Directions:

1. Bake the Cake Layers:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 8-inch round pans. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing in the vanilla extract. Gradually alternate adding the dry ingredients and milk to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Once combined, divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes. Cool completely.

2. Make the Banana Pudding Filling:
   Whisk the banana pudding mix with the cold milk until it thickens. Then, carefully fold in the whipped cream to create a light and fluffy filling.

3. Prepare the Whipped Frosting:
   In a separate bowl, beat together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until you reach stiff peaks.

4. Assemble the Cake:
   Place the first layer of cake on a serving plate. Pipe or spread a layer of banana pudding filling on top, followed by banana slices and cookie crumbles. Repeat this layering process with the second and third layers of cake, then frost the entire cake with whipped cream frosting.

5. Top and Garnish:
   Finish your cake by decorating the top with more banana slices, additional cookie crumbles, and a generous drizzle of caramel sauce for that extra flair!

How to Serve Banana Pudding Cake

Banana Pudding Cake pairs wonderfully with various beverages. Consider serving it with a light, refreshing option like iced tea or homemade lemonade to balance the sweetness of the cake. You could also enjoy it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that classic dessert experience. For a brighter contrast, a side of fruit salad works beautifully with the richness of the cake.

How to Store Banana Pudding Cake

Leftover Banana Pudding Cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you need to store it for a longer time, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy your cake later, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. Individual slices can also be gently reheated in the microwave for a few seconds, bringing back that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!

Tips to Make Banana Pudding Cake

• Ingredient Substitutions: If you want to switch things up, consider using a different flavor of pudding—like vanilla or chocolate—to create a twist on the classic.
• Timing Adjustments: Make sure to monitor the baking time, as every oven behaves differently. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.
• Common Mistakes to Avoid: Ensure your butter is at room temperature for easy creaming with sugar. Also, be careful not to overmix once the dry ingredients are combined, as it can cause the cake to be too dense.

Variations

There are several ways to put your own spin on Banana Pudding Cake. Instead of using vanilla wafers for the layers, you might try chocolate cookies for a unique flavor combination. You could also add nuts, like chopped walnuts or pecans, to the filling for added texture. For a fun twist, consider incorporating chocolate chips into the banana pudding filling.

FAQs

1. Can I use ripe bananas in this recipe?
Yes, ripe bananas work great in this recipe! They add natural sweetness and enhance the banana flavor in the cake.

2. Can I prepare the cake layers in advance?
Definitely! You can bake the cake layers a day or two ahead of time. Just make sure to wrap them tightly and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble the cake.

3. What if I don’t have heavy cream for the frosting?
You can substitute with whipped topping, but the texture will be different. If you want a lighter option, you could use a mixture of cream cheese and whipped topping instead.

4. Is there a safe way to adjust the sweetness of the cake?
If you’d like to make the cake less sweet, you can reduce the granulated sugar by 1/4 cup. Keep in mind that this might slightly affect the cake’s texture.

With its creamy layers and delightful banana flavor, Banana Pudding Cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert arsenal. So, gather your ingredients and get baking—you won’t regret it!