Ingredients
Batter
- 2/3 cup mashed banana (about 2 small, or ~6 oz)
- 1/3 cup coconut oil, soft but not melted
- 6 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 6 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla bean paste
- 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cinnamon Sugar Topping
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease an 8” x 8” baking pan using non-stick spray or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed banana, soft coconut oil, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar. Mix these ingredients well.
- Beat Smooth: Using a hand mixer or stand mixer on medium speed, beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and pale in color, ensuring even incorporation.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the vanilla bean paste and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon. Mix until these ingredients are fully incorporated into the batter.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Add the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt to the bowl. Beat on low speed until everything is combined, creating a thick batter.
- Prepare Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly to the edges for uniform cooking.
- Make Topping: In a small bowl, combine the remaining 2 tablespoons granulated sugar and 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon. Stir to blend the cinnamon sugar evenly.
- Apply Topping: Sprinkle the cinnamon sugar mixture evenly over the top of the batter, covering the entire surface.
- Bake: Bake the cake for about 25 minutes, or until the top is just firm to the touch and lightly golden brown around the edges.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the cake set and makes slicing easier.
- Store: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 1 month. Let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moist texture.
- Make sure coconut oil is soft but not melted to maintain batter consistency.
- For a nuttier flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the sugar slightly, but keep in mind it’s naturally sweet from the bananas.
- Ensure the cake is fully cooled before slicing to avoid crumbling.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan