Jamaica Cake

Prep: 15 min Cook: 80 min Serves: 12 Cuisine: Caribbean

A moist, flavorful banana cake infused with pineapple and nuts, perfect for dessert or teatime, appealing to banana lovers and those seeking a tropical treat.

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Ingredients

  • 3 cups flour
  • 2 cups sugar
  • 2 cups ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1 1/2 cups Crisco oil
  • 3 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

Instructions

  1. Stir all ingredients together, either by hand or with a mixer.
  2. Pour the batter into a greased and floured tube or Bundt pan.
  3. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes.
  4. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter. If you don't have Crisco oil, canola or vegetable oil can be used as substitutions. Ensure your bananas are very ripe for optimal sweetness. Mixing by hand helps to maintain the banana's texture, while a mixer can create a smoother batter if desired.

Serving Suggestions

This delicious cake is perfect as a dessert on its own but can be enhanced with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair it with a hot beverage like coffee or tea for a delightful afternoon treat. It also makes a great addition to gatherings, alongside other sweet options like *Real French Onion Soup or various vegetarian recipes.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover Jamaica Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw at room temperature and warm in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or enjoy it at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Jamaica Cake contains roughly 428 calories, with 8g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

428 kcal 21% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 8.5g 17% DV
Total Fat 6.9g 9% DV
Carbs 86.3g 31% DV
Fiber 4.5g 16% DV
Sugar 5g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 280.3mg 12% DV
Potassium 629mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 103.2mg 34% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 26.8mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 25.5mg 28% DV
Calcium 117.6mg 9% DV
Iron 2.8mg 15% DV
Diet fit Low-fat
Contains Egg Wheat/Gluten

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 other fruits instead of bananas?

Yes, you can experiment with other fruits, like applesauce or pureed peaches, but keep in mind that the texture and flavor will change. Adjust the sugar and moisture accordingly to maintain the cake's consistency.

What can I do if my cake is too dry?

If your Jamaica Cake turns out dry, you can brush it with a simple syrup made from equal parts water and sugar. This will add moisture and sweetness back into the cake. Additionally, ensure not to overbake it in the future.

How can I tell when my cake is done baking?

A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter. Depending on your oven, baking times may vary slightly, so start checking a few minutes before the recommended time.

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).

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