Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake Recipe

Mary Berry’s Date and Banana Cake is a wonderfully moist and flavorful cake that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, caramel-like flavor of dates. This cake is perfect for using up overripe bananas and makes a delightful treat for tea time or a comforting dessert. It’s simple to make, and each slice is packed with deliciously sweet, chewy bites of dates.

What is Mary Berry’s Date and Banana Cake?

Mary Berry’s Date and Banana Cake is a soft, moist cake made with mashed bananas and chopped dates, adding both sweetness and texture. This cake has a light crumb and subtle caramel undertones from the dates, making it a delicious dessert or snack.

Other Popular Recipes

• Mary Berry Dundee Cake
• Mary Berry Raspberry and White Chocolate Cake
• Mary Berry 3 Layer Sponge Cake

Why You Should Try This Recipe

• Naturally Sweetened: Uses ripe bananas and dates for natural sweetness.
• Moist and Fluffy Texture: Bananas and dates keep the cake tender and moist.
• Great for Using Ripe Bananas: Perfect for avoiding food waste.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses basic pantry ingredients.
• Delicious Anytime: Ideal for breakfast, a snack, or dessert.

Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake

• 225g Self-Raising Flour: Adds structure to the cake.
• 100g Unsalted Butter (softened): Adds richness and moisture.
• 175g Light Brown Sugar: Sweetens the cake and adds caramel notes.
• 2 Large Eggs: Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
• 2 Ripe Bananas (mashed): Adds moisture and natural sweetness.
• 100g Chopped Dates: Provides chewy texture and sweetness.
• 1 tsp Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise.
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (optional): Adds depth of flavor.
• 1 tbsp Milk (optional, if needed): Adjust consistency if the batter is too thick.

Instructions to Make Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake

Step 1. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Loaf Pan

Preheat your oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F. Grease a loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.

Step 2. Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3. Add the Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract if using.

Step 4. Add the Bananas

Fold in the mashed bananas, mixing until well combined.

Step 5. Fold in the Dry Ingredients and Dates

Sift the self-raising flour and baking powder into the bowl. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the batter, being careful not to overmix. Finally, fold in the chopped dates.

Step 6. Adjust the Consistency (If Needed)

If the batter is too thick, add 1 tablespoon of milk to loosen it slightly.

Step 7. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 8. Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice and enjoy!

What Goes Well With Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake

• Butter Spread – Adds richness when spread on slices.
• Cream Cheese Frosting – A tangy topping that complements the sweetness.
• Whipped Cream – Light and airy, perfect for a dessert treat.
• Honey Drizzle – Adds extra sweetness with a hint of floral notes.
• Cup of Tea or Coffee – A classic pairing that balances the cake’s sweetness.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake

For the perfect banana date cake, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Ripe Bananas – Overripe bananas are best for sweetness and flavor.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter – Overmixing can make the cake dense. Fold gently to keep it light.
• Soak the Dates (Optional) – If your dates are dry, soak them in a bit of warm water for 10 minutes to soften.
• Check for Doneness – Insert a skewer to ensure the cake is fully baked before removing it from the oven.
• Allow to Cool Before Slicing – This helps the cake set, making it easier to slice cleanly.

Easy Variations of Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake

Try these variations for unique twists:

• Add Walnuts or Pecans – For a nutty flavor and extra crunch.
• Use Maple Syrup – Replace part of the sugar with maple syrup for a caramel flavor.
• Add Cinnamon or Nutmeg – Add warmth and depth.
• Include Chocolate Chips – Mix in chocolate chips for an indulgent touch.
• Top with Streusel – Add a crumb topping for a coffee-cake-like twist.

Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake

• Store at Room Temperature – Keep in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate for Longer Storage – Store in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for Up to 3 Months – Wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and freeze.

Best Practices to Reheat Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake

• Oven Reheat – Place slices in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 5-10 minutes for a freshly baked texture.
• Microwave Individual Slices – Heat on low power for 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Serve at Room Temperature – This cake is delicious and served without reheating.

How Can I Make Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake Healthier?

• Use Whole Wheat Flour – Substitute part of the flour with whole wheat for added fiber.
• Reduce Sugar – Use slightly less sugar, especially if using very ripe bananas.
• Add Extra Fruit – Increase bananas or dates for natural sweetness and nutrients.
• Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Butter – Replace some of the butter with Greek yogurt for a lighter cake.
• Add Ground Flaxseed – A tablespoon of flaxseed adds fiber and healthy fats.

Nutrition Value (per serving)

• Calories: 290
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 22g

FAQs

Can I Use Fresh Dates Instead of Dried Dates in Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake?

Yes, you can use fresh dates, but they may add more moisture to the cake. To keep the right texture, reduce the added milk slightly or chop the fresh dates finely to help them incorporate evenly.

How Do I Keep Date and Banana Cake Moist?

To keep Date and Banana Cake moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. The natural moisture from the bananas and dates helps maintain freshness for up to 3 days. You can also add a touch of Greek yogurt to the batter for extra moisture.

Can I Freeze Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake?

Yes, Mary Berry Date and Banana Cake freeze well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw slices at room temperature before serving.

What Can I Substitute for Bananas in This Cake?

If you don’t have bananas, you can use applesauce or pumpkin puree as an alternative. This will slightly change the flavor, but the texture will remain moist and delicious.

Final Words

Mary Berry’s Date and Banana Cake is a delicious, moist treat that’s perfect for any time of day. With its natural sweetness from bananas and dates, this cake is easy to make and ideal for sharing with friends and family. Serve it with tea or enjoy it as a comforting dessert, and experience the rich flavors of this delightful cake. Enjoy!

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• Delia Smith Dundee Cake
• Mary Berry Marzipan
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