Mary Berry is a well-known British baker famous for her simple yet delicious recipes. Her banana cake is a favorite among many because it is soft, moist, and full of flavor. If you want to make her banana cake at home, follow this detailed guide.
Ingredients Needed
Before you start baking, gather all the necessary ingredients.
For the Cake:
- 225g (1 cup) self-raising flour
- 175g (¾ cup) caster sugar
- 100g (½ cup) softened butter
- 2 large eggs
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2 tablespoons milk
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Icing (Optional):
- 100g (½ cup) icing sugar
- 2 tablespoons water or lemon juice
These ingredients will help you achieve a light and fluffy banana cake with a rich taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Tin
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C for fan ovens) or 350°F.
- Grease a 2lb (900g) loaf tin with butter and line it with baking paper. This prevents the cake from sticking to the tin.
Step 2: Mash the Bananas
- Peel two ripe bananas and mash them in a bowl using a fork.
- Ensure the bananas are fully mashed with no large lumps. This will help create a smooth batter.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. You can use an electric mixer or a wooden spoon.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and mix well.
- Sift in the self-raising flour and baking powder. This helps remove lumps and adds air to the mixture.
- Add the vanilla extract and milk, then gently fold everything together until well combined. Do not overmix.
Step 4: Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf tin.
- Use a spatula to spread the mixture evenly.
- Place the tin in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes.
- To check if the cake is done, insert a skewer or toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Step 5: Cool the Cake
- Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the tin for 10 minutes.
- Transfer it to a wire rack and let it cool completely before adding icing.
Making the Icing (Optional)
- Sift the icing sugar into a small bowl.
- Gradually add water or lemon juice, stirring continuously until smooth.
- Drizzle the icing over the cooled cake using a spoon.
- Let the icing set before slicing.
Tips for a Perfect Banana Cake
Use Ripe Bananas
- The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake will be. Bananas with brown spots are ideal.
Do Not Overmix the Batter
- Overmixing can make the cake dense. Mix gently until the ingredients are just combined.
Adjust the Sweetness
- If you prefer a less sweet cake, reduce the sugar slightly. The bananas will still provide natural sweetness.
Store the Cake Properly
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- If you want to keep it fresh for longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
Variations of Mary Berry’s Banana Cake
Add Nuts for Extra Crunch
- You can mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture.
Make It Chocolatey
- Add 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder to the flour mixture or stir in chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
Try a Cream Cheese Frosting
- Instead of icing sugar glaze, use a cream cheese frosting for a creamy topping.
Serving Suggestions
- Enjoy a slice with a cup of tea or coffee.
- Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Spread butter on a slice for a simple and delicious treat.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s banana cake is a simple yet delicious treat that anyone can make at home. By following the steps above, you can create a moist and flavorful cake that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy it plain, with icing, or with a twist like nuts or chocolate, this cake is sure to be a hit. Remember to use ripe bananas for the best taste, mix the ingredients gently, and store the cake properly to keep it fresh. Now that you know how to make this classic banana cake, give it a try and enjoy a homemade delight!
Now you know how to make Mary Berry’s banana cake! Follow these steps, and you will have a delicious, moist, and fluffy cake perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!
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