Mary Berry's Banana Cake: A Deliciously Simple Recipe

Mary Berry, a household name synonymous with baking excellence, has graced our kitchens with countless recipes. Among her most beloved creations is her incredibly moist and flavorful banana cake. This recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros, delivering consistently delicious results. Let's delve into the details of this classic, exploring what makes it so special and offering tips for baking success.

Ingredients for Mary Berry's Banana Cake

This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it a breeze to whip up. You likely already have most of them in your pantry!

• 175g (6oz) softened butter: Using softened butter is crucial for a light and airy texture. Don't melt it!
• 175g (6oz) caster sugar: Caster sugar dissolves easily, contributing to a smooth batter.
• 3 large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients and add richness. Ensure they're at room temperature for optimal emulsification.
• 225g (8oz) self-raising flour: This simplifies the recipe, eliminating the need for separate raising agents.
• 1 tsp baking powder: While self-raising flour contains baking powder, adding a little extra ensures a perfectly risen cake.
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon: A touch of cinnamon adds warmth and complexity to the banana flavor.
• Pinch of salt: Enhances the other flavors.
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more intensely flavored the cake will be. Overripe bananas are perfect!

Step-by-Step Instructions: Baking Mary Berry's Banana Cake

Follow these simple steps for a guaranteed delicious outcome:

1. Preheat & Prepare: Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan/Gas Mark 4). Grease and flour a 20cm (8 inch) round cake tin. This prevents sticking and ensures easy removal.

2. Cream Butter & Sugar: Cream together the softened butter and caster sugar until light and fluffy. This is best achieved using an electric mixer, but can be done by hand with a little elbow grease.

3. Add Eggs: Gradually add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. This incorporates air and prevents the batter from curdling.

4. Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.

5. Combine Wet & Dry: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tough cake.

6. Add Bananas: Gently fold in the mashed bananas until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

8. Cool: Let the cake cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips for the Perfect Banana Cake (Mary Berry Style)

• Banana Ripeness: Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and moisture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Room temperature ingredients combine more easily, resulting in a smoother batter.
• Don't Overmix: Overmixing develops gluten, leading to a tough cake. Mix only until just combined.
• Check for Doneness: Use a skewer to check if the cake is baked through. If it comes out clean, it's ready.
• Cooling: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting or serving to prevent it from crumbling.

Serving Suggestions for Mary Berry's Banana Cake

This delicious banana cake is perfect on its own, but you can enhance it further with:

• Cream Cheese Frosting: A classic pairing that complements the banana flavor beautifully.
• Whipped Cream: A light and airy topping adds a touch of elegance.
• Fresh Berries: Add a burst of freshness and color.
• Chocolate Ganache: For a decadent twist.

Mary Berry's banana cake recipe is a timeless classic, guaranteed to impress. Follow these steps, and enjoy the delicious results! Remember to share your baking triumphs using #MaryBerrysBananaCake. Happy baking!