Have you ever indulged in a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a cozy day? If you haven’t tried Banana Pudding Cake, you’re in for a treat! This deliciously creamy dessert combines layers of moist banana cake, luscious banana pudding, and fluffy whipped frosting, making every bite feel like a celebration. Did you know that this southern classic can be traced back to the 19th century? Its origins are surrounded by love, family gatherings, and the simple joys of life. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, perfect for family-friendly gatherings or just a simple indulgence after dinner.
If you enjoy classic desserts, you’ll want to explore our other sweet offerings—like our famous Southern Lemonade Pie. Between the cooling citrus tang and the soothing sweetness of Banana Pudding Cake, you’ll have a dessert rotation that caters to all cravings. So grab your baking gear and let’s dive into this scrumptious journey!
What is Banana Pudding Cake?
So, what’s the big deal about a cake named after our dear friend, the banana? Well, Banana Pudding Cake isn’t just a cake; it’s a deliciously layered phenomenon that brings comfort and joy. You might be wondering why it’s specifically named “Banana Pudding Cake.” The answer is simple: it’s a delightful fusion of a traditional banana pudding layered between soft, fluffy cake. Think of it as the ultimate combination—like a hug and a handshake. As they say, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” so why not create a dessert that could win over anyone? Trust us, you’ll want to give this cake a shot—it could be the highlight of any gathering!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Pudding Cake
Banana Pudding Cake brings together the rich flavors of bananas, creamy pudding, and soft cake. The standout feature? The moist banana layers that meld beautifully with the pudding filling. Plus, making this cake at home is a great way to save some dough while impressing friends and family! Let’s not forget those exciting toppings: whipped cream, cookie crumbles, and even warm caramel sauce that gives each slice that extra wow factor.
If you enjoy Banana Pudding Cake, be sure to check out our recipes for Vanilla Custard Cake, which also boasts layers of flavor and a delightful texture. With each recipe, you’re sure to find something that tickles your taste buds. So why not roll up your sleeves and make this delightful dessert yourself?
How to Make Banana Pudding Cake
Quick Overview
Get ready to experience the simplicity and scrumptiousness of Banana Pudding Cake. This delectable dessert features moist banana cake layers and a creamy banana pudding filling that delivers a delightful texture and taste! Preparation is quick, and with just a little effort, you’ll have a show-stopping dessert ready in no time.
Key Ingredients for Banana Pudding Cake:
- For the Cake:
- 2 1⁄2 cups all-purpose flour
- 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)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- 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. - Make the Banana Pudding Filling:
Whisk the banana pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens. Then, carefully fold in the whipped cream to create a light and fluffy filling. - Prepare the Whipped Frosting:
In a separate bowl, beat together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until you reach stiff peaks. - 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. - 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!
What to Serve Banana Pudding Cake With
Pair your Banana Pudding Cake with a light, refreshing beverage like iced tea or homemade lemonade to cut through the cake’s sweetness. You may also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that classic dessert experience. Adding a side of fruit salad can also brighten the meal and contrast the richness of the cake beautifully!
Top Tips for Perfecting 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.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store your Banana Pudding Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy your cake later, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. You can also gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
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!
Banana Pudding Cake
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
Instructions
- 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.
- Make the Banana Pudding Filling:
- Whisk the banana pudding mix with cold milk until it thickens. Then, carefully fold in the whipped cream to create a light and fluffy filling.
- Prepare the Whipped Frosting:
- In a separate bowl, beat together the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until you reach stiff peaks.
- 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.
- 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!
- What to Serve Banana Pudding Cake With
- Pair your Banana Pudding Cake with a light, refreshing beverage like iced tea or homemade lemonade to cut through the cake's sweetness. You may also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for that classic dessert experience. Adding a side of fruit salad can also brighten the meal and contrast the richness of the cake beautifully!
- Top Tips for Perfecting 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.
- Storing and Reheating Tips
- Leftovers? No problem! Store your Banana Pudding Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. If you want to keep it for a longer period, it can be frozen for up to 3 months. To enjoy your cake later, thaw it in the fridge overnight before serving. You can also gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-out-of-the-oven taste!
- 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!
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