Name: Banana Walnut Cake with White Chocolate and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter, room temperature, plus more for greasing; 2 tablespoons plus ½ cup packed brown sugar; 5 cups sliced ripe bananas (from about 8-10 bananas); 3 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for flouring the pan; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon sea salt; 1 cup granulated sugar; 3 large eggs, room temperature; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 ½ cups buttermilk, room temperature; 1 cup walnuts, chopped (optional); 4 ounces white chocolate, shaved; 1 quart heavy whipping cream, chilled; ¼ cup granulated sugar; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 14 reviews

If you have ever dreamed of a cake that marries the sweetness of ripe bananas with the satisfying crunch of walnuts, then the Banana Walnut Cake with White Chocolate and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe is about to steal your heart. This cake is everything a celebration cake should be — moist, fluffy, and decadently topped with smooth whipped cream frosting studded with white chocolate. Each bite offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures that feels like a warm hug, making this recipe not only a fantastic dessert but a wonderful way to bring joy into any gathering or quiet moment at home.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A single round layer of light brown, textured cake with visible small dark specks sits on white parchment paper on a white marbled surface. On top of the cake layer, there is a thick, uneven spread of smooth, white cream in the center. The cake looks soft and moist, and the cream adds a soft contrast with its bright white color and fluffy texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is simple, yet each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect Banana Walnut Cake with White Chocolate and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe. The bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture, while the butter and sugars build that rich, tender crumb. The walnuts add delightful texture, and the white chocolate combined with whipped cream frosting finishes it off with elegance and lightness.

Unsalted butter (1 cup, room temperature): Provides richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened for easy creaming.
Brown sugar (2 tablespoons plus ½ cup packed): Adds a deep caramel flavor and helps caramelize the bananas.
Ripe bananas (5 cups sliced, from about 8-10 bananas): Key to that moist, flavorful cake, ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and softness.
All-purpose flour (3 cups, plus extra for the pan): The foundation of the cake’s structure.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Works with the acidic elements to lift the batter perfectly.
Sea salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
Granulated sugar (1 cup): Sweetens the cake and aids in browning.
Large eggs (3, room temperature): Bind everything and contribute to the cake’s structure.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Adds warm, aromatic depth.
Buttermilk (1½ cups, room temperature): Keeps the cake tender and moist with a subtle tang.
Walnuts (1 cup, chopped, optional): Brings crunch and a nutty flavor that perfectly complements bananas.
White chocolate (4 ounces, shaved): For an indulgent, creamy finish on top of the frosting.
Heavy whipping cream (1 quart, chilled): The main ingredient for luscious whipped cream frosting.
Granulated sugar (¼ cup for frosting): Sweetens the whipped cream just right.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons for frosting): Adds a delicate, sweet aroma to the frosting.

How to Make Banana Walnut Cake with White Chocolate and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Caramelize the Bananas

Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and melting ¼ cup of butter with 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 2 cups of sliced bananas. Let the mixture cook until the bananas caramelize and turn golden, about 5 to 7 minutes. This step intensifies the banana flavor, making the cake irresistibly fragrant and rich. Once done, transfer the bananas to a bowl and mash them, creating that luscious base for your batter.

Step 2: Prepare Dry Ingredients

While the bananas cool a bit, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and sea salt in a large bowl. This combination ensures your cake will have the perfect lift and crumb. Setting aside the dry ingredients now keeps the process smooth when mixing the batter later.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the remaining ¾ cup of butter on high speed until creamy and smooth, about one minute. Add the granulated sugar and remaining ½ cup of brown sugar, beating until well combined and fluffy, about two minutes. This creaming process is essential to trap air and give your cake a tender, light texture.

Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients

Mix the eggs and vanilla extract into the creamed butter and sugars until everything is well incorporated. Then, add the mashed caramelized bananas and mix again. This blend of wet ingredients will make your cake deliciously moist and flavorful from the inside out.

Step 5: Mix Batter

With the mixer running on low, alternate adding a third of the dry ingredients and a third of the buttermilk. This gradual incorporation prevents overmixing, which could make the cake dense. At last, gently fold in most of the chopped walnuts, reserving some for decoration if you like that extra nutty touch on the outside.

Step 6: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between two greased and floured 8-inch pans, smoothing the tops. Bake at 350°F for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool completely in their pans set on a wire rack before removing. Patience here ensures the layers will be perfect for frosting and stacking.

Step 7: Make the Whipped Cream Frosting

Chill your mixing bowl and whisk attachment to help the cream whip up quickly and properly. Beat together heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla on high speed until stiff peaks form. The whipped cream should be spreadable — thicker than what you’d spoon on a pie but soft enough to spread smoothly over your cake.

Step 8: Assemble the Cake

Trim the tops of each cake layer with a serrated knife to create flat surfaces. Slice each layer horizontally into two, making four equal cake layers. Place one layer on your cake stand or plate and spread about one-fifth of the whipped cream over it. Add a layer of fresh banana slices on top, then repeat with the next cake layer, continuing to alternate cake, cream, and bananas.

Step 9: Finish and Decorate

Once all layers are stacked, spread the remaining whipped cream evenly over the top and sides. Sprinkle the remaining walnuts on the sides or top and finish by delicately scattering the shaved white chocolate across the cake. This final step adds visual appeal and a creamy bite that balances perfectly with the nutty banana flavors.

How to Serve Banana Walnut Cake with White Chocolate and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe

The image shows a slice of layered cake with four thick layers of light brown cake, each separated by a thick white cream filling. The outside is coated with more white cream, and small nut pieces are scattered on the sides. The cake slice sits on a textured light pink glass plate, which is placed on a larger white plate with brown speckles, all on a white marbled surface. Next to the plates, there is a silver fork with a curved handle, partly leaning on a folded gray cloth napkin. White flowers and green stems lie scattered around the scene, adding a fresh touch. A second plate with a smaller portion of cake and a knife with a gray handle appear blurred in the foreground. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

For a show-stopping presentation, decorate the cake with additional white chocolate shavings and chopped walnuts. Fresh banana slices artfully placed on top can add a vibrant touch and a hint of freshness. A light dusting of cocoa or cinnamon also complements the warm banana and walnut flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with fresh berries like blueberries or raspberries, which provide a tart contrast. A dollop of extra whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream turns this cake into an indulgent dessert experience. Coffee or a cup of chai tea harmonize with the cake’s sweetness and add cozy warmth.

Creative Ways to Present

Stylize your Banana Walnut Cake with White Chocolate and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe by serving it as individual mini cakes or cupcakes decorated with mini shards of white chocolate and walnut pieces. Alternatively, create a layered trifle using the same cake and frosting components for a stunning party centerpiece. No matter how you serve it, this recipe works beautifully for any occasion.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover banana walnut cake wrapped tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the whipped cream frosting fresh and maintains the cake’s moisture and delicate texture.

Freezing

If you want to freeze the cake, it’s best to remove the frosting first. Wrap the unfrosted cake layers tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then frost and decorate as usual.

Reheating

This cake is best enjoyed chilled or at room temperature to preserve the whipped cream frosting. If you prefer it slightly warmed, allow slices to acclimate outside the fridge for about 30 minutes before serving, but avoid microwaving as this can affect texture and cause the frosting to melt.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this cake?

Absolutely! Frozen bananas work beautifully as long as you thaw and drain any excess liquid before using. This helps prevent the batter from becoming too wet and ensures the perfect cake texture.

Do I have to use walnuts in the recipe?

Not at all! Walnuts add wonderful crunch and flavor, but you can omit them or substitute with pecans or even toasted coconut depending on your preference or allergies.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Simply make a quick buttermilk substitute by adding 1½ tablespoons of lemon juice or white vinegar to 1½ cups of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes. This gives the acidity needed for tender crumb and helps the cake rise nicely.

How do I get firm whipped cream frosting that’s still spreadable?

The trick is to whip the cream just until stiff peaks form, not beyond. Also, chilling your bowl and beaters beforehand helps the cream reach the right consistency more easily.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Using a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour blend with xanthan gum is a great swap. Just be aware that the texture might be slightly different but still deliciously satisfying.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly magical about the Banana Walnut Cake with White Chocolate and Whipped Cream Frosting Recipe that makes every forkful feel like a special occasion. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or a quiet moment to yourself, this cake promises joy in every bite. Don’t hesitate to give it a go — once you try it, it’s bound to become one of your favorite homemade treats to bake and share.