Mary Berry 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.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 50
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- 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
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!