Jamie Oliver Chocolate And Banana Cake

Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake is a deliciously moist and rich treat, combining the natural sweetness of bananas with the indulgence of chocolate. Perfect for using up ripe bananas, this cake has a soft, fudgy texture that’s ideal for any occasion. Whether for dessert, a snack, or a cozy afternoon tea, this cake is sure to please.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake?

Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake is a luscious blend of ripe bananas and chocolate, creating a moist and flavorful cake that’s satisfying and easy to make. The ripe bananas not only add sweetness and moisture but also complement the deep chocolate flavor, making it a comforting and indulgent treat.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and Fudgy Texture: Thanks to the bananas, this cake stays moist and tender.
• Perfect for Ripe Bananas: A great way to use bananas that are a bit too soft to eat on their own.
• Rich Chocolate Flavor: The chocolate adds a depth of flavor that balances perfectly with the bananas.
• Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps for a quick and easy dessert.
• Versatile: Enjoy as a dessert, snack, or even as a special breakfast treat.

Ingredients Needed to Make Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake

For the Cake

• 200g self-raising flour – Provides structure and helps the cake rise.
• 50g cocoa powder – Adds rich chocolate flavor to the cake.
• 150g caster sugar – Sweetens the cake and balances the chocolate.
• 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and gives structure to the cake.
• 125ml vegetable oil or melted butter – Adds moisture and richness.
• 3 ripe bananas (mashed) – Adds natural sweetness and a soft, moist texture.
• 100g dark chocolate (chopped or chips) – Adds bursts of chocolate throughout the cake.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.

Optional Toppings

• Chocolate ganache – For a glossy, rich topping.
• Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans) – Adds crunch and complements the chocolate.
• Sliced banana – For a decorative touch.
• Powdered sugar – For a simple dusting.

Instructions to Make Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Tin

Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a loaf tin or 20cm round cake tin and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, sift together the self-raising flour and cocoa powder. Set aside.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs and Sugar

In another bowl, beat the eggs and caster sugar together with an electric mixer or whisk until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

Step 4: Add the Oil and Bananas

Add the vegetable oil (or melted butter) and mashed bananas to the egg mixture, stirring until well combined. Mix in the vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Fold the flour and cocoa powder mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Fold in the chopped dark chocolate or chocolate chips for an extra chocolatey bite.

Step 6: Pour into the Tin and Smooth the Top

Pour the batter into the prepared cake tin, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be set, and the cake should feel springy to the touch.

Step 8: Cool the Cake

Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 9: Add Optional Toppings

If desired, top the cake with a chocolate ganache, sprinkle with chopped nuts, or dust with powdered sugar. For a decorative touch, add a few slices of banana on top.

What Goes Well with Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake

• Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, it balances the richness of the chocolate.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Complements the chocolate and banana flavors beautifully.
• Chocolate Sauce: For extra indulgence, drizzle some chocolate sauce over each slice.
• Fresh Berries: Raspberries or strawberries add a pop of color and freshness.
• Coffee or Espresso: A strong coffee pairs wonderfully with the rich chocolate flavor.

Expert Tips for the Best Chocolate and Banana Cake

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Fold ingredients gently to keep the cake soft and moist.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a skewer to check the center, as this cake can be dense and may need a few extra minutes.
• Cool Completely Before Topping: Ensure the cake is fully cooled if adding ganache or other toppings.
• Store Properly: Keep in an airtight container to maintain moisture.

Easy Variations of Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake

• Add Walnuts or Pecans: Stir in a handful of chopped nuts for added texture and flavor.
• Double Chocolate: Use chocolate chips in the batter for extra chocolatey bites.
• Peanut Butter Swirl: Add small spoonfuls of peanut butter to the batter and swirl before baking.
• Mocha Flavor: Add a teaspoon of instant coffee granules for a hint of mocha.
• Chocolate Coconut Cake: Add desiccated coconut for a tropical twist.

Best Practices to Store Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake

• Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for Longer Storage: Keeps well in the refrigerator for up to a week. Let it come to room temperature before serving.
• Freeze for Future Enjoyment: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

How Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake Healthier?

• Reduce Sugar: Use less sugar or a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup.
• Use Whole Wheat Flour: Substitute part of the self-raising flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Limit the Oil: Replace half of the oil with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Skip the Ganache: Enjoy it plain or with a dusting of cocoa powder to reduce sugar and calories.

Nutrition Value (Per Serving)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g

FAQs

Can I Use Regular Chocolate Instead of Chocolate Chips in Chocolate and Banana Cake?

Yes, you can use regular chocolate instead of chocolate chips. Simply chop a chocolate bar into small pieces and fold them into the batter. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate, or a mix of both work well in this recipe.

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

Yes, you can freeze this chocolate and banana cake. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.

How Do I Make Chocolate and Banana Cake Extra Moist?

To keep the cake extra moist, use overripe bananas and avoid overmixing the batter. You can also add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or sour cream to the batter for added moisture. Make sure to store the cake in an airtight container.

Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?

Yes, you can make this cake gluten-free by substituting the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend that contains a rising agent. Ensure the gluten-free flour is suitable for baking to achieve the best texture.

Final Words

Jamie Oliver’s Chocolate and Banana Cake is a deliciously moist and rich treat that’s perfect for any occasion. With the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the indulgence of chocolate, this cake is sure to be a hit with both chocolate lovers and banana fans. Serve it plain, with toppings, or alongside whipped cream or ice cream for a truly special dessert!

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• Mary Berry Banana and Chocolate Cake
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