Banana Nut Cake with Creamy Vanilla Pudding Filling

Indulge in a luscious Banana Nut Cake, enriched with the smoothness of vanilla pudding. This cake, combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the crunchy texture of nuts, is the perfect dessert for any occasion. With each bite, you’ll enjoy the balance of moist cake layers and the creamy vanilla pudding filling, making it a delightful treat for family and friends.

Ingredients:

• 3 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 4 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 2 medium bananas)
• 1 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans)
• 2 cups vanilla pudding (for filling and drizzle)
• 2 bananas, sliced (for topping)
• 1/2 cup chopped nuts (for topping)

Directions:

1. Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare two 9-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them to prevent the cake from sticking.

2. Prepare the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside for later use.

3. Beat the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the sour cream and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth.

4. Mix in the Mashed Bananas

Stir the mashed bananas into the batter, ensuring they are thoroughly incorporated for a consistent banana flavor throughout the cake.

5. Combine the Ingredients

Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter. Gently fold in the chopped nuts, adding a delightful crunch to the cake.

6. Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula for an even rise. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Once baked, allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans on a wire rack. If necessary, level the tops for even layering.

7. Assemble the Cake

Place one of the cooled cake layers on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of vanilla pudding over the top. Gently place the second cake layer on top of the pudding. Drizzle the remaining vanilla pudding over the top of the cake, allowing it to cascade down the sides for a decorative effect. Finally, garnish with sliced bananas and a sprinkle of chopped nuts for added flavor and texture.

Nutritional Information:

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Calories: 450 per serving
• Servings: 12

This Banana Nut Cake with Creamy Vanilla Pudding is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Serve it as a show-stopping dessert at your next gathering!