Flourless Banana Cake
If you’re on the hunt for a moist, flavorful dessert that’s easy to whip up and requires no flour, look no further than this delicious Flourless Banana Cake. This cake is not only gluten-free but also packed with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, making it a perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or even a snack. The combination of wholesome ingredients ensures that you’re indulging without the guilt, and the best part? It’s all made in one bowl! Let’s dive into this delightful recipe.
What Sets This Recipe Apart
This Flourless Banana Cake stands out not just for its lack of flour, but also for its use of simple, wholesome ingredients. The ripe bananas provide natural sweetness and moisture, while the combination of oats and almond milk adds a delightful texture. The cake is naturally sweetened with brown sugar and enriched with warm spices like cinnamon and allspice, creating a comforting flavor profile that’s perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—add chocolate chips or nuts for an extra treat!
Ingredient Notes
- Mashed Bananas: You’ll need 1 cup of ripe bananas, which blends seamlessly into the batter, adding moisture and sweetness.
- Egg: One large egg helps bind the ingredients together and provides structure to the cake.
- Vanilla Extract: A teaspoon of vanilla extract adds depth and enhances the overall flavor.
- Coconut Oil: Using 1/2 cup of melted coconut oil provides healthy fats and a subtle coconut flavor.
- Cornstarch: One tablespoon of cornstarch helps to create a light texture, giving the cake a fluffiness.
- Baking Powder & Baking Soda: These leavening agents work together to give the cake a nice rise.
- Ground Cinnamon & Allspice: 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of allspice infuse the cake with warm, comforting flavors.
- Brown Sugar: Lightly packed brown sugar adds moisture and a hint of caramel flavor.
- Old-Fashioned Oats: 1 1/2 cups of oats not only give the cake a heartiness but also make it gluten-free.
- Semisweet Chocolate Chips or Nuts: You can add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips or nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Almond Milk: 3 tablespoons of almond milk help to achieve the right consistency in the batter.
- Powdered Sugar: 1 cup of powdered sugar is used for a simple frosting or dusting on top for a sweet finish.
What You’ll Need (Gear)
- Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining all the ingredients.
- Whisk: A whisk or fork is needed to mix the batter until smooth.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to the perfect cake.
- Baking Pan: A 9-inch round baking pan or a square pan will work well for this recipe.
- Parchment Paper: Use this to line your pan for easy removal of the cake.
- Cooling Rack: Allow the cake to cool properly before serving.
Flourless Banana Cake in Steps
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly.
Step 2: Prepare the Pan
Line your baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, and brown sugar. Stir to blend the dry ingredients.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
Step 6: Add Oats and Mix-ins
Fold in the old-fashioned oats and semisweet chocolate chips or nuts, whichever you prefer.
Step 7: Pour into Pan
Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 8: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 9: Cool
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
Step 10: Frosting (Optional)
If you like, mix the powdered sugar with a little almond milk to create a simple glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled cake for a sweet touch.
Variations for Dietary Needs
- Nut-Free: Substitute almond milk with oat milk or any other non-dairy milk.
- Vegan: Replace the egg with 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce for binding.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a sugar substitute that measures like sugar.
- Add Protein: Mix in protein powder to boost the nutritional value without affecting texture.
Avoid These Mistakes
- Overmixing: Be careful not to overmix the batter, as it can lead to a dense cake.
- Using Unripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are ripe to achieve the best flavor and sweetness.
- Incorrect Oven Temperature: Always preheat your oven to ensure proper baking.
- Skipping the Parchment Paper: Don’t skip lining the pan; it helps with easy removal and cleanup.
Leftovers & Meal Prep
Leftover Flourless Banana Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To keep it fresh, cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. You can also freeze slices for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to prevent freezer burn!
This cake also makes an excellent meal prep option for breakfast. Just slice and grab a piece on your way out the door, or warm it slightly in the microwave for a comforting start to your day.
Ask & Learn
Can I use quick oats instead of old-fashioned oats?
While you can use quick oats, the texture of the cake may be slightly different. Old-fashioned oats provide a heartier texture, so if you prefer a smoother cake, quick oats are acceptable.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If it’s sticky or wet, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
Can I add other flavors to the cake?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different spices like nutmeg or ginger, or even add a tablespoon of cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
How can I make this cake more decadent?
For an extra indulgent treat, try swirling in some peanut butter or Nutella before baking, or top the cake with whipped cream and fresh fruit when serving.
More Recipes You’ll Love
Ready, Set, Cook
Your Flourless Banana Cake is just a few steps away! Gather your ingredients, get into the kitchen, and let the aroma of freshly baked cake fill your home. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress. Indulge in the rich flavors and enjoy every bite of this wholesome dessert. Happy baking!
Flourless Banana Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the cake bakes evenly.
- Line your baking pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it with coconut oil to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Add the egg, vanilla extract, and melted coconut oil. Whisk until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, combine the cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, ground cinnamon, ground allspice, and brown sugar. Stir to blend the dry ingredients.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in the old-fashioned oats and semisweet chocolate chips or nuts, whichever you prefer.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a cooling rack to cool completely.
- If you like, mix the powdered sugar with a little almond milk to create a simple glaze. Drizzle it over the cooled cake for a sweet touch.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, substitute almond milk with oat milk.
- To make it vegan, use applesauce instead of the egg.
- Reduce brown sugar for a lower sugar option or use a sugar substitute.
