Chocolate Banana Snack Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chocolate Banana Snack Cake is a moist, tender cake that combines the rich flavor of cocoa with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. It’s the perfect anytime treat—great for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a simple dessert. With its soft crumb and chocolatey goodness, this easy cake is sure to become a family favorite.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

ripe bananasall-purpose flourunsweetened cocoa powdergranulated sugarsalted butter (or oil)eggsbaking sodavanilla extractsaltbuttermilk or milkchocolate chips (optional)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease an 8×8-inch baking pan.

In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.

Add melted butter (or oil), sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract. Whisk until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt.

Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with buttermilk, and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.

Fold in chocolate chips if using.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Allow the cake to cool before slicing.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields about 9 generous squares.Preparation time: 10 minutesBaking time: 25-30 minutesCooling time: 15 minutesTotal time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.

Sprinkle powdered sugar on top instead of frosting.

Use whole wheat flour for added fiber.

Add a swirl of peanut butter to the batter for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store Chocolate Banana Snack Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.Refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 2 months.Thaw at room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw and drain excess liquid before using.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

Do I have to use buttermilk?

You can substitute with regular milk plus 1 teaspoon of vinegar or lemon juice.

Can I add frosting?

Absolutely! A simple chocolate or cream cheese frosting pairs well.

Can I bake this in a loaf pan?

Yes, adjust the baking time as needed.

Is this cake very sweet?

It’s moderately sweet, balanced by the cocoa and bananas.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, vegetable or coconut oil works well.

Can kids help make this?

Yes! It’s an easy, kid-friendly recipe.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, bake in a 9×13-inch pan and increase baking time slightly.

What’s the best way to serve it?

Enjoy plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or with a scoop of ice cream.

Conclusion

Chocolate Banana Snack Cake is a deliciously simple treat that combines two beloved flavors into one soft, moist bite. Perfect for using up ripe bananas, this cake is a must-try for chocolate lovers and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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