Dr. Byrd Cake
A moist, flavorful banana cake with pineapple and warm spices, perfect for breakfast, snack, or dessert, appealing to banana and fruit lovers alike.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sift dry ingredients into a large bowl.
- Make a well in the center and break eggs into it.
- Add oil, vanilla, diced bananas, and crushed pineapple with juice.
- Stir, do not beat, until well blended.
- Pour batter into a well-greased 9- or 10-inch tube pan.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 hour and 20 minutes.
- Cake will crack on top.
- Set pan on a rack to cool.
- Run a knife around the edges of the pan and turn out to cool.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Dr. Byrd Cake, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra texture. If you don't have crushed pineapple, you can substitute it with applesauce for moisture. Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best sweetness and flavor. For a spicier kick, increase the cinnamon or add a pinch of nutmeg to the dry ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delightful on its own, but you can serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It pairs beautifully with Ice Cream Coffee Cake for a dessert spread. Consider adding a fresh fruit salad on the side for a refreshing contrast to the cake's richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Dr. Byrd Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dr. Byrd Cake contains roughly 477 calories, with 7g protein, 79g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 815mg per serving (35% 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 make Dr. Byrd Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Dr. Byrd Cake a day in advance. Just cool it completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to slice. Store it at room temperature or in the refrigerator if you prefer a chilled dessert.
What can I use instead of bananas?
If you’re looking for a substitute for bananas, unsweetened applesauce is a great option. You can also use mashed avocado for added moisture without the banana flavor. Just be mindful that the cake may have a different texture, but it will still be delicious.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
To check if your Dr. Byrd Cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready. Keep in mind that the cake will crack on top, which is normal for this recipe.
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).