What makes a Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake different from regular banana bread?

Unlike regular banana bread, this cake combines rich chocolate in both the batter and layers, creating a moist, indulgent dessert. It includes semi-sweet chocolate chips inside and mini chips on the outside, offering a melty chocolate texture without the need for frosting. The layering technique also gives it a more elegant presentation compared to traditional banana bread.

Can I use overripe bananas for this cake?

Yes, overripe bananas are ideal for this recipe. They are sweeter and softer, which boosts the banana flavor and helps keep the cake moist. Using bananas with plenty of brown spots will give the best texture and natural sweetness, reducing the need for extra sugar.

Why doesn’t this cake have frosting?

This Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake uses chocolate chips both inside and on the surface to create a rich, gooey texture, so frosting isn’t necessary. Serving the cake warm enhances the melty chocolate experience. If you prefer, you can dust it lightly with powdered sugar or drizzle with melted chocolate for extra sweetness without overpowering the banana flavor.

How should I store the Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake to keep it fresh?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days to maintain its moist texture. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to five days. Before serving, gently warm slices in the microwave to bring back the melty chocolate effect.

Can I make this cake gluten-free or vegan?

Yes, you can adapt the recipe by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend suitable for baking. For a vegan version, replace eggs with flax eggs or applesauce and use a dairy-free butter alternative. Be sure to use dairy-free chocolate chips to keep the melty chocolate experience intact. Adjust baking time slightly when making these substitutions.

Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake Recipe With Rich Cocoa

Name: Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/4 cups mashed bananas; 3/4 cup light brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 large egg; 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips; 2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips for topping

Description

🍫 Indulge in this moist and decadent double chocolate cake that uses ripe bananas for natural sweetness and a tender texture
🍌 Perfect for chocolate lovers looking for a lighter dessert option – rich in flavor without the heavy oil

Ingredients

Scale

1 1/4 cups mashed bananas

3/4 cup light brown sugar

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 large egg

1 cup all-purpose flour

1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips

2 tablespoons mini chocolate chips for topping

Instructions

1-First, in a large bowl, mash the 1 1/4 cups of ripe bananas until smooth, then mix in the 3/4 cup light brown sugar until it’s fully dissolved. That’s the base for that natural sweetness we’re after. Next, add the 1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and 1 large egg, stirring everything together for a uniform batter.

2-Now, in a separate bowl, combine the dry ingredients: 1 cup all-purpose flour (make sure it’s stirred, spooned, and leveled), 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Gradually fold these into the wet mixture, being gentle to avoid overmixing, then stir in the 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips.

3-Pour the batter into a greased 8×8 inch pan, sprinkle on the 2 tablespoons of mini chocolate chips for that extra topping, and pop it in the oven. Bake for 25 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Let it cool for a bit, then serve warm for the best rich chocolate experience.

Notes

🍌 Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best sweetness and texture in your cake
🍫 Don’t overmix the batter – stir just until combined to keep the cake tender and moist
⏰ This cake tastes best served warm from the oven, but it’s also delicious at room temperature

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 274
Sugar: 28
Sodium: 200
Fat: 8
Saturated Fat: 4
Unsaturated Fat: 3
Trans Fat: 0
Carbohydrates: 51
Fiber: 4
Protein: 4
Cholesterol: 30

Keywords: double chocolate, banana cake, cocoa flavor, rich chocolate