Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake 🍌🍫

Calories: Approximately 450 calories per serving
Suggested Meal Time: Best enjoyed as a dessert or for an afternoon snack.

---

Ingredients:

For the Chocolate Banana Cake:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 2 teaspoons baking soda

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon salt

• 2 large eggs

• 1 cup buttermilk

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

For the Chocolate Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 3 ½ cups powdered sugar

• ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• ½ cup heavy cream

• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

---

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

   • In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.

   • In another bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

   • In a separate mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the mashed bananas, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract, mixing well.

   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.

   • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

   • Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.

2. Prepare the Frosting:

   • Beat the softened butter until smooth and creamy.

   • Gradually add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder, alternating with the heavy cream, and continue to beat until the frosting is light and fluffy.

   • Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

3. Assemble the Cake:

   • Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top.

   • Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.

   • Decorate with chocolate shavings or banana slices, if desired.

---

Energy-Saving Tip:

• To save energy, use a convection oven or bake multiple items at once to make the most out of the heat generated. You can also opt for a toaster oven instead of a full-size oven if you’re baking smaller quantities.

---

Who Will Benefit From This Cake:

• This cake is rich in potassium from bananas, making it a good treat for those needing a quick energy boost or replenishing electrolytes post-exercise.

Who Should Avoid It:

• Due to its high sugar and fat content, it is best to avoid for those with diabetes, high cholesterol, or anyone on a calorie-restricted diet.

Enjoy your indulgent Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake! 😋🍫