Choco-Banana Dream Layers

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Choco-Banana Dream Layers cake is the perfect harmony of chocolate and banana, two classic flavors that never go out of style. The chocolate cake layers are dense yet moist, providing a rich base for the creamy banana filling. The banana cream filling is silky smooth, thanks to the whipped cream, cream cheese, and mashed bananas. Topped with fresh banana slices and chocolate shavings, this cake is not only delicious but also beautifully presented. It’s the ultimate comfort food that combines two favorites into one unforgettable dessert.

Ingredients

For the chocolate cake layers:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• ½ cup vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup boiling water

For the banana cream filling:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 ½ cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream

For garnish:

• Sliced bananas
• Chocolate shavings

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

Directions

1. Prepare the chocolate cake layers: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, sift together the flour, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Add the eggs, whole milk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, and beat until smooth. Gradually add the boiling water, mixing until well combined. The batter will be thin, but that’s normal. Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared pans.
2. Bake the cakes: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely.
3. Make the banana cream filling: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue beating until combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture until smooth and light. Lastly, fold in the mashed bananas.
4. Assemble the cake: Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving platter. Spread a generous amount of the banana cream filling over the top. Place the second cake layer on top and gently press it down. Frost the entire cake with the remaining banana cream filling.
5. Garnish and serve: Decorate the top with fresh banana slices and chocolate shavings for an elegant finish. Chill the cake for at least 2 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
6. Enjoy!: Slice and serve the Choco-Banana Dream Layers cake, and enjoy the delightful combination of rich chocolate and creamy banana in every bite.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 10-12 servings.

• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Bake time: 30-35 minutes
• Chill time: 2 hours
• Total time: 3 hours 5 minutes

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3-4 days. This cake is best served chilled and does not require reheating, as the creamy banana filling stays deliciously firm when cold.

FAQs

Can I make this cake in advance?

Yes, you can make both the chocolate cake layers and the banana cream filling in advance. Just store them separately, and assemble the cake the day you plan to serve it. The cake will keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Can I use bananas that aren’t very ripe?

It’s best to use ripe bananas for the filling, as they are sweeter and easier to mash. Overripe bananas work perfectly for this recipe, giving the cream filling an extra boost of flavor.

Can I substitute the whipping cream with regular cream?

Heavy whipping cream is the best choice for this recipe to achieve the light, airy texture of the filling. If you use regular cream, it may not whip properly, affecting the texture of the filling.

Can I use a different type of chocolate in the cake?

You can substitute the unsweetened cocoa powder with a different type of cocoa powder (e.g., Dutch-processed), but this may slightly alter the flavor. For a richer chocolate taste, you could also melt and add a small amount of bittersweet or semisweet chocolate to the batter.

How do I make the cake layers moist?

The key to a moist cake is not overmixing the batter and using the correct amount of oil. Be sure to use vegetable oil, which helps the cake retain moisture. Also, adding the boiling water to the batter helps keep it moist and tender.

Can I use a different frosting for the cake?

If you prefer a different frosting, you can substitute the banana cream filling with a chocolate ganache, buttercream, or whipped cream. However, the banana cream filling is what makes this dessert special.

How can I prevent the banana slices from browning?

To prevent banana slices from browning, you can brush them lightly with lemon juice before using them as a garnish.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum to ensure the cake holds together well.

Can I freeze this cake?

You can freeze the cake layers by wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. For the banana cream filling, it is best to make it fresh, as it may not freeze well. If you freeze the cake, allow it to thaw before adding the filling and garnishing.

What can I substitute for cream cheese?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative, you can substitute cream cheese with a dairy-free cream cheese option, such as one made from cashews or almonds, available at most health food stores.

Conclusion

Choco-Banana Dream Layers is a dessert that offers the perfect blend of rich chocolate and creamy banana in every bite. Its moist chocolate cake layers and smooth, banana-infused cream filling make it a treat that both chocolate and banana lovers will adore. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just indulging in a personal treat, this cake is sure to impress. Enjoy this dreamy dessert with family and friends – it’s the ultimate indulgence!

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