📸 Image coming soon for Banana Walnut Cake
Banana Walnut Cake
Desserts • India
How to Make Banana Walnut Cake (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Banana Walnut Cake is a beloved dessert in India, especially popular during winter months and festive occasions like Christmas and New Year. While its origins are Western, Indian households have embraced this cake, adding their own twist with ingredients like atta (whole wheat flour) and jaggery (gur) for a naturally sweet and wholesome flavor. The combination of ripe bananas and crunchy akhrot (walnuts) creates a moist, aromatic cake that’s both indulgent and packed with nutrition. Often served as a tea-time treat or a wholesome breakfast, Banana Walnut Cake is known for its soft texture and nutty undertones. In India, it’s common to prepare this cake for family gatherings, birthdays, and even as an offering during festivals like Diwali, when healthier sweets are preferred. Using locally sourced ingredients and traditional baking methods, this recipe delivers a guilt-free dessert that fits perfectly into a vegetarian diet. Its balanced sweetness and rich flavor make it a hit among kids and adults alike, and its versatility allows for easy adaptation to suit dietary needs, making Banana Walnut Cake a staple in Indian homes.
Ingredients(for 1 thick slice (approx. 70g))
- 2 medium Ripe bananas (kela)
- 1 cup Whole wheat flour (atta)
- 1/4 cup Walnuts (akhrot, chopped)
- 1/2 cup Jaggery powder (gur, grated)
- 1/4 cup Milk (doodh, low-fat)
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil (any neutral oil)
- 1 tsp Baking powder (standard Indian brand)
- 1/2 tsp Baking soda (standard Indian brand)
- 1/2 tsp Cinnamon powder (dalchini) - optional
- a pinch Salt (namak) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a small baking tin with oil and dust lightly with atta.
5 minutes
Use parchment paper for easy cake removal.
- 2
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas (kela) until smooth using a fork. Add jaggery powder (gur) and mix well until dissolved.
3 minutes
Mash bananas thoroughly for a moist cake.
- 3
Add vegetable oil and milk (doodh) to the banana mixture. Stir to combine.
2 minutes
Milk can be replaced with unsweetened almond milk for a vegan version.
- 4
In a separate bowl, sift atta (whole wheat flour), baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon powder (dalchini), and salt (namak).
2 minutes
Sifting ensures an even, airy batter.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Banana Walnut Cake uses wholesome ingredients like atta, jaggery, and walnuts, making it a healthier alternative to traditional cakes. It is free from refined sugar and maida, reducing empty calories and increasing fiber. The natural sugars from bananas and jaggery provide sustained energy, making it suitable for weight management. It’s a great option for those seeking a nutritious, filling dessert without compromising on taste.
Banana Walnut Cake made with atta and jaggery offers dietary fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and support heart health, while bananas provide natural sweetness, vitamins B6 and C, and energy. Using minimal oil and whole wheat flour increases protein and lowers glycemic impact compared to refined flour cakes. This dessert is a nutritious vegetarian option, containing essential minerals and healthy fats.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- 💡Tip 2: Lightly toast walnuts to enhance their flavor before adding.
- 💡Tip 3: Sift dry ingredients to avoid lumps and ensure a fluffy cake.
Storage & Serving
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate for up to 5 days. Reheat slices lightly before serving to restore softness.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 270.0 kcal |
