Dessert Recipes

Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake recipe

by Chef Emy
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There are few desserts as universally adored as chocolate cake. Add bananas to the mix and what you get is a luxurious, moist, flavor-packed creation that hits every sweet note perfectly. This Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake is rich, decadent, and irresistibly moist—perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, dinner parties, or any time you’re craving a truly indulgent dessert.

Whether you’re a seasoned home baker or just beginning your cake-baking journey, this cake is approachable, customizable, and comes out bakery-quality every time. In this post, we’ll break down every step of the process from mixing the batter to mastering a silky smooth chocolate frosting. Plus, you’ll find expert tips, ingredient swaps, FAQs, storage instructions, and more to help you perfect this stunning layer cake.

Who This Recipe Is For

This cake is ideal for:

  • Chocolate lovers seeking depth, richness, and real cocoa intensity.
  • Banana fans looking for a dessert that elevates the classic banana bread flavor.
  • Home bakers who want a show-stopping layer cake with reliable results.
  • Event hosts who need a centerpiece dessert for birthdays, showers, or holidays.
  • Anyone who has overripe bananas and doesn’t want to make another loaf of banana bread.

The combination of ripe bananas, rich cocoa, and lush chocolate frosting makes this cake a total crowd-pleaser that appeals to both kids and adults. It’s sophisticated enough for grown-up palates, but comforting and familiar for younger ones, too.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chocolate Banana Cake:

  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 2 tsp baking soda
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup buttermilk
  • 1/2 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

For the Chocolate Frosting:

  • 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
  • 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar
  • 3/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

For Garnish:

  • Chocolate shavings or curls
  • Fresh banana slices (add just before serving to prevent browning)

Required Kitchen Equipment

To successfully make this layered chocolate banana cake, here’s what you’ll need:

  • Two 9-inch round cake pans
  • Parchment paper
  • Mixing bowls (medium and large)
  • Electric mixer or hand whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Rubber spatula
  • Cooling rack
  • Offset spatula or cake scraper
  • Cake stand or serving plate

How to Make Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch cake pans with butter or cooking spray, and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together:

  • Flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Baking soda
  • Baking powder
  • Salt

This step helps evenly distribute the leaveners and avoids clumping.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the sugar until slightly fluffy. Then mix in:

  • Buttermilk
  • Oil
  • Vanilla
  • Mashed bananas

Make sure the bananas are very ripe (brown-spotted) for maximum flavor and sweetness.

Step 4: Combine and Mix

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet, mixing just until incorporated. Avoid overmixing—this keeps the cake tender.

Step 5: Bake the Cake Layers

Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula and bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove and place on a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

Making the Perfect Chocolate Frosting

Step 1: Cream the Butter

Beat the softened butter on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3–4 minutes.

Step 2: Add the Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Mix slowly to avoid a sugar cloud, then increase speed to blend well.

Step 3: Add the Wet Ingredients

Add the heavy cream, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy. If needed, add more cream (1 tbsp at a time) to reach your desired consistency.

Assembling the Cake

Step 1: Level the Cake Layers (Optional but Recommended)

If your cakes domed during baking, use a serrated knife to level the tops for a more professional-looking layer cake.

Step 2: Frost the First Layer

Place one cake round on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of chocolate frosting evenly across the top.

Step 3: Add the Second Layer

Place the second cake layer on top. Frost the top and sides with the remaining chocolate frosting, using an offset spatula or cake scraper to smooth the finish.

Step 4: Garnish

Sprinkle with chocolate curls or shavings. Add banana slices only just before serving to prevent browning.

Step 5: Let it Set

Allow the cake to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before slicing. This helps the frosting set and makes for cleaner slices.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Chocolate Banana Cake

✅ Use Overripe Bananas

Dark brown bananas work best. They’re naturally sweeter and more flavorful.

✅ Room Temperature Ingredients

Bring your eggs and buttermilk to room temperature before mixing to ensure better emulsion and a tender crumb.

✅ Don’t Skip the Parchment

Lining your cake pans helps ensure your cake doesn’t stick and comes out cleanly.

✅ Chill Before Slicing for Clean Layers

If you want picture-perfect slices, refrigerate the frosted cake for 1 hour before cutting.

Variations and Swaps

🧁 Cupcakes

This batter makes excellent cupcakes. Fill lined cupcake tins 2/3 full and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.

🍫 Frosting Options

Not into chocolate-on-chocolate? Try a cream cheese frosting, peanut butter buttercream, or even a Nutella ganache.

🌱 Dairy-Free Version

Use almond milk with a teaspoon of vinegar in place of buttermilk. Swap butter with plant-based margarine and heavy cream with coconut cream for the frosting.

🍌 Add-Ins

  • Mini chocolate chips folded into the batter
  • Walnuts or pecans for crunch
  • Espresso powder in the frosting to intensify chocolate flavor

How to Store Leftovers

🍰 Room Temperature

If unfrosted, cake layers can be wrapped and stored at room temperature for up to 2 days.

🧊 Refrigerator

Once frosted, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Let it come to room temp before serving.

❄️ Freezer

Freeze unfrosted cake layers by wrapping tightly in plastic wrap and foil. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before frosting.

Perfect Pairings

☕ Beverage Pairings

  • Freshly brewed espresso or strong coffee
  • A glass of cold milk
  • Red wine like a bold Zinfandel or a rich Cabernet Sauvignon
  • Black tea with cinnamon or spice notes

🍨 Serve With

  • A scoop of vanilla or coffee ice cream
  • A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce or salted caramel
  • Whipped cream and crushed nuts for extra flair

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw and drain excess liquid before mashing. The texture might be slightly wetter but will still work.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Check that your cocoa powder and baking powder are gluten-free as well.

What if I don’t have buttermilk?

Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes before using.

How do I prevent the cake from drying out?

Don’t overbake, and make sure to wrap any leftovers tightly. The bananas help retain moisture naturally, so this cake stays tender longer than typical chocolate cake.

Can I bake this in a bundt pan?

Yes! Grease and flour your bundt pan well and bake for 45–50 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.

Final Thoughts

This Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a celebration of flavors, textures, and pure indulgence. From its tender, moist crumb to its fluffy chocolate frosting and elegant garnish, this cake has everything you need to impress your guests or simply treat yourself to something extraordinary.

It’s the perfect solution when you’ve got overripe bananas on the counter and no interest in making yet another banana bread. Chocolate lovers and banana fans alike will be swooning at first bite.

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