Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate And Banana Cake Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake is an irresistible treat that combines the rich, velvety indulgence of chocolate with the natural sweetness and moisture of bananas, creating a perfectly balanced dessert that’s easy to make and hard to resist. Whether you’re a beginner baker or an experienced pro, this cake offers a delightful fusion of flavors that’s guaranteed to satisfy anyone’s sweet tooth.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate And Banana Cake

Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake is a decadent, moist cake that marries two classic ingredients-chocolate and banana-in a wonderful way. The cake is soft, light, and fluffy, thanks to the natural sweetness and moisture of ripe bananas, while the chocolate adds depth and richness.

This cake is a wonderful choice for anyone who loves the combination of fruity flavors with the deep, satisfying taste of chocolate. The recipe is designed to be both simple and fun, making it a perfect option for a casual dessert, a weekend treat, or even a special occasion.

Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate And Banana Cake Recipe

Ingredients Needed

For Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Bananas (3 ripe bananas): These are the key ingredient that not only add sweetness but also provide moisture, making the cake incredibly soft.
• Dark Chocolate (200g): Adds a rich, chocolatey flavor to complement the bananas and gives the cake its deep, decadent taste.
• Butter (100g): Helps with the cake’s texture and gives it a rich, smooth mouthfeel.
• Self-raising flour (200g): Ensures the cake rises beautifully, giving it that light, airy texture.
• Caster Sugar (200g): Provides sweetness to balance the flavor profile of the cake.
• Eggs (2 large): These bind the ingredients together and contribute to the structure of the cake.
• Vanilla Extract (1 tsp): Adds a subtle depth of flavor that enhances the chocolate and banana combination.
• Baking Powder (1 tsp): Helps the cake rise further, ensuring a light and fluffy result.
• Milk (100ml): Adds moisture and helps to bring the batter together.

Equipment Needed

To make Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake, you will need the following equipment:

• Mixing bowls: You’ll need a large one for mixing your dry ingredients and another for your wet ingredients.
• Electric whisk (or hand whisk): For beating the mixture to a smooth consistency. If you don’t have an electric whisk, a handheld whisk will work, but it will require more effort.
• Spatula: For folding in the ingredients and scraping down the sides of the bowl.
• Sieve: To sift your flour and baking powder for a smooth cake batter.
• Cake tin (round or square, about 20cm in diameter): This will shape your cake. Make sure it’s greased or lined with parchment paper for easy removal.
• Microwave or Heatproof Bowl: To melt the chocolate.
• Oven: Preheat to the required temperature to ensure even baking.

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate And Banana Cake?

Making Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake is straightforward and enjoyable. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 180°C (350°F) and line your cake tin with baking paper or lightly grease it to ensure the cake comes out easily.
2. Prepare the bananas: Peel the bananas and mash them well in a bowl. The riper, the better-they should be almost mushy for the best texture.
3. Melt the chocolate: Break the chocolate into pieces and melt it gently in a heatproof bowl over simmering water (double boiler method) or in the microwave, stirring every 20 seconds until smooth. Allow it to cool slightly before using.
4. Mix the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift the self-raising flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.
5. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, whisk the butter and sugar together until they become pale and fluffy. This step is key to a light texture.
6. Add the eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Add the vanilla extract to the mixture.
7. Combine the wet ingredients: Add the mashed bananas to the butter-sugar mixture, followed by the melted chocolate. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
8. Fold in the dry ingredients: Gradually add the sifted dry ingredients, folding them in gently to maintain air in the batter. Finally, stir in the milk to make the mixture smooth and pourable.
9. Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin and smooth the top. Bake for about 25-30 minutes or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Cool and serve: Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. You can serve it as-is or dust it with powdered sugar or cocoa powder for an extra touch.

Expert Tips

• Use Overripe Bananas: The more ripe your bananas, the sweeter and more moist your cake will be. They should be soft and spotty, but not brown and mushy.
• Don’t Overmix: Once you add the dry ingredients, be careful not to overwork the batter. This could make the cake dense. Fold gently to combine.
• Choose High-Quality Chocolate: Since chocolate is a star ingredient, using a good quality dark chocolate will make a significant difference in the flavor of the cake.
• Add a Twist: You can incorporate a handful of chopped nuts, such as walnuts or hazelnuts, to add a delightful crunch to the cake.

Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake is a perfect dessert for chocolate and banana lovers alike. It’s simple to make, requires few ingredients, and delivers exceptional taste and texture.

With its rich, chocolaty interior and sweet banana notes, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe provides a foolproof way to create a stunning cake with minimal effort. Enjoy it fresh from the oven or after a day or two-it’s delicious either way!.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate And Banana Cake

Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake is already a delicious treat that combines the sweetness of bananas with the richness of chocolate.

But if you’re feeling adventurous or want to customize the cake to suit your tastes, there are plenty of ways to vary the recipe!

Here are some easy, fun variations to consider:

1. Add Nuts for Texture: For a bit of crunch, try adding some chopped walnuts, hazelnuts, or almonds to the batter. Nuts pair wonderfully with both chocolate and bananas, providing a contrast in texture that elevates the cake’s flavor. Simply fold in about ½ cup of your preferred nuts when mixing the dry ingredients.
2. Infuse with Spices: If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a teaspoon of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of allspice. These spices add depth to the flavor profile, creating a more complex taste. Cinnamon pairs especially well with both banana and chocolate!
3. Use Dark or Milk Chocolate: While the original recipe might call for milk chocolate, you can easily swap it out for dark chocolate if you prefer a richer flavor. Dark chocolate’s bittersweet notes balance the sweetness of the bananas, making for an indulgent dessert that will satisfy chocolate lovers.
4. Vegan or Dairy-Free Version: For those avoiding dairy or following a vegan diet, you can make this cake without compromising on taste. Replace the butter with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan margarine, and swap the eggs with a flaxseed mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseeds mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, allowed to sit for a few minutes to form a gel). Use a non-dairy milk, such as almond or oat milk, to maintain the cake’s moist texture.
5. Add Peanut Butter for a Twist: Peanut butter and banana are a classic combination. Swirl a few tablespoons of creamy peanut butter into the batter, or spread a thin layer over the finished cake for an added indulgence. This variation makes the cake even more decadent.
6. Top with Fresh Fruit or Berries: If you want to add a fresh touch, top the baked cake with sliced bananas, fresh strawberries, raspberries, or a drizzle of passionfruit pulp. This adds a burst of flavor and color to your cake, making it not only delicious but visually stunning.
7. Caramelized Banana Topping: Elevate the flavor of the banana in the cake by caramelizing it. Slice a banana and cook it in a pan with a little butter and sugar until it’s golden and soft. Add this as a topping just before serving for a warm, sweet, and slightly crispy banana finish.
8. Add Coffee for a Mocha Flavor: If you’re a coffee lover, mix in a tablespoon of instant coffee or espresso powder into the dry ingredients. The coffee enhances the chocolate flavor, creating a rich mocha twist that pairs beautifully with the banana.
9. Gluten-Free Version: If you need a gluten-free cake, simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to check that all your other ingredients (such as baking powder and chocolate) are also gluten-free.

With these variations, you can put your own spin on Jamie Oliver’s chocolate and banana cake to suit your dietary preferences and flavor preferences, making it a perfect treat for any occasion!

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Nobody likes wasting food, so if you’ve made a delicious chocolate and banana cake and have leftovers, you’ll want to store them properly to keep them fresh and tasty. Here are some best practices:

1. Cool the Cake Completely: Before storing your leftover cake, make sure it has cooled down to room temperature. Storing a warm cake can lead to condensation, which can cause the cake to become soggy or even moldy.
2. Use an Airtight Container: To preserve the moisture and prevent the cake from drying out, place it in an airtight container. If you don’t have one, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. For extra protection, you can place a layer of parchment paper around the cake before wrapping.
3. Refrigerate for Longer Freshness: If you plan to keep the cake for more than a day or two, it’s best to store it in the fridge. The cool temperature will help maintain its freshness. Just be sure to allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving, as it will taste best when not cold.
4. Freezing for Extended Storage: If you need to store the cake for a longer period, freezing is a great option. Cut the cake into slices, wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This way, you can take out individual slices and enjoy them whenever you wish. To thaw, simply leave the slices on the counter for a few hours.
5. Avoid Storing Frosted Cake: If you’ve added frosting, it’s better to store the cake in layers with parchment paper between them. Frosting can sometimes become too soft and sticky when stored at room temperature, so refrigerating or freezing the frosted cake is recommended. If the cake isn’t frosted yet, it will be easier to handle and store.
6. Keep Bananas Separate for the Long-Term: Since the bananas in the cake will naturally release moisture over time, it’s best to eat the cake within a few days if you want the best texture. However, if you freeze it, the bananas will retain their flavor and sweetness, ensuring that the cake stays just as good as the day you made it.

By following these simple steps, you can keep your cake fresh and moist for a longer period, ensuring that it’s still as delicious on day two (or even day five!) as it was when you first baked it.

What Goes Well With Chocolate And Banana Cake?

When it comes to pairing sides or drinks with a chocolate and banana cake, you want something that complements the rich flavors without overwhelming them. Here are some great options:

1. Whipped Cream: A classic pairing with chocolate cake is fresh whipped cream. The light, fluffy texture of the whipped cream balances the richness of the chocolate and the sweetness of the bananas, creating a delightful contrast.
2. Vanilla Ice Cream: For an indulgent dessert, serve a slice of your chocolate and banana cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The cool, creamy ice cream pairs beautifully with the warmth of the cake, creating a harmonious flavor experience.
3. Berries: Fresh berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, or blackberries, provide a nice tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake. They add a burst of freshness and acidity, making each bite more exciting.
4. Coffee or Espresso: Coffee’s robust flavors are the perfect complement to the chocolate in the cake. A freshly brewed cup of coffee or a shot of espresso brings out the cake’s richness and provides a satisfying contrast to the sweet banana flavor.
5. Hot Chocolate: If you’re a chocolate lover, why not pair the cake with a cup of rich, creamy hot chocolate? This works especially well if you enjoy your cake a little more decadent.
6. Nut Butter: Peanut butter, almond butter, or even hazelnut spread can be a fantastic addition to the cake. Try spreading a thin layer on top of the cake or serving it alongside a small dollop for added flavor.
7. Sparkling Wine or Prosecco: If you’re in the mood for a little celebration, try pairing your chocolate and banana cake with a glass of sparkling wine or Prosecco. The effervescence of the wine balances the richness of the cake, making for an elegant pairing.
8. Milk: Sometimes, the simplest pairing is the best. A cold glass of milk complements the texture and flavor of chocolate cake, creating a nostalgic, comforting combination.

These pairings enhance the flavors of the cake and provide a perfect complement for different occasions, whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet afternoon treat.

Conclusion

Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake is a versatile and delicious dessert that can be easily customized with various ingredient substitutions or additions. Whether you add nuts, spices, or go for a vegan version, this cake offers endless possibilities for creative variations.

Storing leftovers correctly will ensure that your cake stays fresh for days, and when it comes to pairing, there’s no shortage of delightful options like whipped cream, berries, coffee, or even a glass of sparkling wine. No matter how you make or serve it, this cake is sure to impress and satisfy everyone’s sweet tooth.

FAQs

What Are The Key Ingredients For Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate And Banana Cake?

The key ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s chocolate and banana cake include ripe bananas, dark chocolate, butter, eggs, sugar, self-raising flour, and a pinch of salt. You will also need vanilla extract and cocoa powder for added flavor.

How Ripe Should The Bananas Be For The Chocolate And Banana Cake?

The bananas should be very ripe, with brown spots on the skin. Overripe bananas are ideal because they are sweeter and mash easily, which helps to create a moist cake.

Can I Use Other Types Of Chocolate In Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate And Banana Cake Recipe?

Yes, you can use other types of chocolate, but dark chocolate is preferred for the richness it adds. You can substitute with milk chocolate if you prefer a sweeter, less intense flavor.

What Type Of Flour Is Required For This Cake?

The recipe calls for self-raising flour, which helps the cake rise. If you don’t have self-raising flour, you can use plain flour and add a teaspoon of baking powder per 100g of flour.

How Long Should I Bake The Chocolate And Banana Cake?

Bake the cake for about 45 minutes in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F). However, baking times may vary slightly, so check the cake by inserting a skewer – if it comes out clean, the cake is done.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate And Banana Cake Gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by using a gluten-free self-raising flour blend. Be sure to check that all other ingredients, such as chocolate, are also gluten-free.

How Do I Ensure The Cake Stays Moist After Baking?

To ensure the cake stays moist, make sure you do not overbake it. Additionally, the ripe bananas help retain moisture. Once baked, you can cover the cake with a cloth while it cools to preserve its texture.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate And Banana Cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in a freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months.

How Should I Store Leftover Chocolate And Banana Cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can refrigerate it, but it’s best eaten within the first few days to maintain its freshness.

Can I Add Nuts Or Other Extras To Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate And Banana Cake?

Yes, you can add extras such as chopped walnuts, hazelnuts, or even chocolate chips to the cake batter for added texture and flavor. Just fold them in gently after mixing the batter.