Banana Pudding Pound Cake: 7 Simple Steps to Delight!

Name: Banana Pudding Pound Cake: 7 Simple Steps to Delight!
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 2 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup buttermilk; 1 cup vanilla pudding mix

June 7, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Oh my goodness, if you haven’t tried baking a banana pudding pound cake yet, you are in for a treat! This cake is my absolute favorite because it combines the sweet, comforting flavor of ripe bananas with that classic, buttery pound cake texture we all crave. I remember the first time I made it—it filled my kitchen with the most wonderful smell, and I couldn’t wait to dig in! Trust me, there’s something truly magical about that moist crumb and the hint of vanilla pudding that takes it over the top. It’s perfect for any occasion, or just when you need a little slice of happiness!

banana pudding pound cake - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, at room temperature
2 ripe bananas, mashed until smooth
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
1 cup vanilla pudding mix (instant)

How to Prepare Banana Pudding Pound Cake

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s preheat that oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial because it ensures even baking throughout the cake. Nobody wants a cake that’s gooey in the middle, right? So, while you’re gathering your ingredients, get that oven warming up!

Prepare the Loaf Pan

Now, let’s tackle the loaf pan. Grab your 9×5 inch loaf pan and grease it generously with some unsalted butter or cooking spray. Then, sprinkle a little flour in there and shake it around to coat the bottom and sides. This will help your cake slide right out without any sticky drama later on. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself for this little step!

Combine Dry Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This step may seem simple, but it’s super important! Mixing these dry ingredients ensures that your leavening agents are evenly distributed, which leads to that perfect texture we love in a pound cake. Go ahead and mix it well until it’s all combined!

Cream Butter and Sugar

Next up, let’s cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together in a mixing bowl. Use an electric mixer on medium speed and mix for about 3-5 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step adds air to the batter, making your cake wonderfully moist and tender. It’s like giving your cake a little magic touch!

Incorporate Eggs and Bananas

Now, let’s add those eggs! Crack them in one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This helps to incorporate them fully into the batter. Then, fold in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract gently. I like to use a spatula for this so I can make sure I don’t overmix. You want to keep that lovely, fluffy texture we just created!

Alternate Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Here comes the fun part! Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start with about a third of the dry mixture, then add half of the buttermilk, and continue alternating until everything is combined. This technique keeps your batter nice and smooth without overworking it. And trust me, a smooth batter equals a smoother cake!

Fold in Vanilla Pudding Mix

Now, gently fold in the vanilla pudding mix until just combined. This is where the magic happens—this mix adds extra moisture and that signature banana pudding flavor. Just be careful not to overmix; we want to keep that luscious texture intact!

Bake the Cake

Time to pour that beautiful batter into your prepared loaf pan! Spread it evenly with a spatula, then pop it in the oven. Bake for 60-70 minutes, but keep an eye on it! When it’s ready, a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean. Oh, the smell that will fill your kitchen will be absolutely divine!

Cooling Process

Once it’s baked to perfection, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This little resting time helps it firm up and makes it easier to transfer without falling apart. After that, carefully turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. And let me tell you, the anticipation of that first slice will be totally worth it!

Tips for Success

To make sure your banana pudding pound cake turns out absolutely perfect, I’ve got a few tried-and-true tips that I swear by! First, always use very ripe bananas. The more spots they have, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. You want those bananas to be practically begging to be baked!

Next, don’t skip the creaming step. It might feel tedious, but really incorporating air into the butter and sugar is key for a light and fluffy texture. Also, make sure your butter is at room temperature—this makes it way easier to cream and ensures a smooth batter.

When it comes to your dry ingredients, be sure to whisk them thoroughly before adding to the wet mix. This helps avoid any clumps and ensures everything is evenly combined. And remember, when you’re alternating between adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, do it gradually. It helps maintain that lovely texture we’re after!

Finally, keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Ovens can vary, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. The toothpick test is your best friend here! And once it’s out of the oven, resist the urge to slice right away—waiting for it to cool will give you the best texture and flavor. Trust me, patience pays off!

Variations on Banana Pudding Pound Cake

Now, let’s talk about some fun variations that can take your banana pudding pound cake to the next level! One of my favorites is adding chopped nuts—like walnuts or pecans—into the batter for a delightful crunch. Just fold in about half a cup of your preferred nuts right before pouring the batter into the pan. It adds texture and a lovely nutty flavor!

If you’re a chocolate lover, why not mix in some chocolate chips? I mean, chocolate and bananas are a classic combo! Toss in a cup of semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips to the batter and watch your cake transform into a decadent treat. You can even swirl in some chocolate fudge or ganache for an extra indulgent twist.

Feeling adventurous? Try experimenting with different flavor extracts! Instead of vanilla, you can use almond extract for a unique flavor profile. Just remember, a little goes a long way, so start with a teaspoon and adjust to your taste.

For a tropical vibe, consider adding some shredded coconut or even pineapple chunks (just make sure to drain them well). This will give your cake a bright and sunny twist that’s perfect for summer gatherings!

Lastly, if you want to lighten things up a bit, you can substitute half of the buttermilk with unsweetened applesauce for a slightly healthier version. It will still keep the cake moist while adding a subtle fruity flavor. The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative and make this banana pudding pound cake your own!

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve baked your delicious banana pudding pound cake, let’s talk about how to serve it up in style! Presentation can really elevate your dessert, so here are a few ideas to make it even more tempting. One of my absolute favorite ways to serve this cake is with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. It adds a light, airy contrast to the dense, moist cake and makes each bite feel extra indulgent!

If you’re feeling fancy, you can whip up some homemade whipped cream—just beat heavy cream with a bit of sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form. Trust me, it’s worth the extra effort! For an even more delightful touch, consider garnishing with a sprinkle of crushed vanilla wafers on top for that classic banana pudding vibe. It’ll not only look gorgeous but also add a bit of crunch!

Fresh banana slices are another fantastic option. They not only enhance the banana flavor but also give a lovely visual appeal. Just slice a banana right before serving to keep it fresh and bright! You can even drizzle a little caramel or chocolate sauce over the top for an added layer of sweetness and visual flair. Wow, just imagining it makes my mouth water!

And if you want to take it over the top, serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The creaminess of the ice cream paired with the warm cake is a match made in heaven. Just picture it: warm, moist banana pudding pound cake melting into a scoop of cold, creamy goodness—pure bliss!

Whatever you choose, don’t forget to plate it with love. A simple yet elegant presentation can turn a humble pound cake into a showstopper at any gathering. Enjoy every slice, and watch your friends and family devour it with smiles on their faces!

Nutritional Information Disclaimer

Just a quick note: nutritional values can vary quite a bit depending on the specific ingredients you choose and the brands you use. The numbers provided are estimates based on common ingredients, but feel free to adjust them according to your preferences and dietary needs. Remember, baking is all about having fun and enjoying the process, so don’t stress too much over the exact nutritional data. Enjoy your delicious banana pudding pound cake without any guilt!

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you absolutely can! Just make sure to thaw the bananas completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing them. Frozen bananas tend to be even sweeter, so they can work beautifully in your banana pudding pound cake!

How should I store the banana pudding pound cake?
To keep your cake fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay delicious at room temperature for about 3 days. If you want to enjoy it longer, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture!

Can I substitute the buttermilk with something else?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes, and voila! You’ve got a great buttermilk alternative ready to go!

What if my cake sinks in the middle?
A sunken cake can be a bummer, but don’t fret! This usually happens when the batter is overmixed or if the cake is underbaked. Make sure to fold your ingredients gently and check for doneness with a toothpick before the suggested baking time is up. Trust me, a little patience goes a long way!

Can I add other flavorings to the banana pudding pound cake?
For sure! You can totally customize your cake by adding different flavor extracts. Almond or coconut extracts work wonderfully alongside the bananas. Just remember to start with a little and taste as you go, so the flavors don’t overpower the delicious banana goodness!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.