Banana Spice Layer Cake
A moist and flavorful banana spice layer cake infused with warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, perfect for special occasions or comforting gatherings with rich frosting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Cream the shortening until smooth.
- Gradually add the sugar and beat until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and mashed bananas to the creamed mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
- Beat well after each addition.
- Pour the batter into two well-greased 9-inch cake pans.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Tips & Substitutions
For a moist cake, ensure your bananas are very ripe; they should be brown and soft. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with unsalted butter for a richer flavor. You can also experiment with different spices like cardamom for a unique twist. Make sure to sift your dry ingredients to avoid lumps and achieve a lighter cake texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cake plain or with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea. For a festive touch, top with cream cheese frosting or a sprinkle of chopped nuts. This cake is perfect for birthdays or as a delightful dessert at gatherings, complementing a range of meals from brunch to dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, store the Banana Spice Layer Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the freezer for up to two months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Banana Spice Layer Cake contains roughly 296 calories, with 6g protein, 60g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (38% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1199mg per serving (52% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may alter the texture slightly. To maintain lightness, consider using a blend of whole wheat and all-purpose flour. This will give you a healthier option while still keeping the cake tender.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make the Banana Spice Layer Cake gluten-free, substitute the cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure that the blend contains xanthan gum for structure. This allows those with gluten sensitivities to enjoy this delicious treat without compromising on flavor.
What can I add to enhance the banana flavor?
To enhance the banana flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of banana extract along with the mashed bananas. You can also fold in some chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture. This complements the spices well and creates a more robust banana flavor in every bite.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).