Banana and Hazelnut Cake with Cherries Recipe

If you are looking for a cake that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Banana and Hazelnut Cake with Cherries is an absolute must-try. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, the rich, toasty notes of hazelnuts, and bursts of juicy cherries to create a moist, flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a wonderful balance of textures and tastes that feels both nostalgic and excitingly fresh. Whether you’re baking for a friendly get-together or just craving something special at home, this cake will quickly become one of your favorites to share and savor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Banana and Hazelnut Cake with Cherries lies in its beautifully simple but thoughtfully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: the flours provide structure and subtle nuttiness, the bananas bring moisture and natural sweetness, and the cherries add those delightful pops of tart juiciness that brighten the whole cake.

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed: Make sure they are very ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together with a light crumb.
• 1 cup hazelnut flour: Adds that rich, nutty undertone that defines this cake’s character.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise perfectly and stays fluffy.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with the bananas to give a tender crumb.
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances sweetness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and a velvety texture.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar: Brings deep sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor.
• 2 large eggs: Give structure and bind all ingredients together.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavors with its warm, fragrant notes.
• 1/2 cup milk: Adds moisture and keeps the cake tender.
• 1 cup fresh or frozen cherries, pitted and halved: Bursts of juicy brightness that shine through every slice.
• 1/2 cup chopped hazelnuts: For a satisfying crunch and extra nuttiness.

How to Make Banana and Hazelnut Cake with Cherries

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing a 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly will ensure your cake comes out beautifully without sticking. This step is key to a smooth release—no cake slice heartbreaks here!

Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, hazelnut flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these first ensures that your leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed throughout the batter, which is essential for consistent texture and rise.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

Using a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This creates the perfect base to trap air, which helps your cake stay tender and moist. It’s worth taking your time to get this step right!

Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Bananas

Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the vanilla extract followed by the mashed bananas. These bananas bring such wonderful moisture and natural sweetness, making every bite irresistibly cozy.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to your wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Stir the batter gently until just combined to keep the texture light—overmixing can make the cake tough, and we absolutely want it tender!

Step 6: Fold in Cherries and Hazelnuts

Now for the best part: gently folding in the cherries and chopped hazelnuts. These add delightful bursts of flavor and texture that make this Banana and Hazelnut Cake with Cherries truly unique and memorable.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the surface. Bake in your preheated oven for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool for 10 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely, so every slice cuts beautifully.

How to Serve Banana and Hazelnut Cake with Cherries

Garnishes

To take your presentation up a notch, dust the top lightly with powdered sugar or sprinkle some extra chopped hazelnuts for added crunch. A few fresh cherries on top create a pretty contrast and hint at the flavors inside.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream. If you want a more indulgent touch, drizzle a warm caramel sauce over each slice. For a lighter option, fresh whipped cream and herbal tea are a perfect match.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, cut the cake into smaller squares and serve them as petite desserts at a party. You can also layer slices with mascarpone and cherries to transform it into a stunning trifle. Whatever way you serve it, the Banana and Hazelnut Cake with Cherries is sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or refrigerate it for up to 5 days to keep it fresh. Make sure it’s wrapped well to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap the whole cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

To enjoy your Banana and Hazelnut Cake with Cherries after freezing, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then warm gently in the microwave or oven. A few seconds in the microwave will bring back its soft, moist texture as if it was freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use almond flour instead of hazelnut flour?

Yes, almond flour is a great substitute, but it will slightly change the flavor profile. Almond flour offers a milder nutty taste compared to the distinctive richness of hazelnuts.

Do I have to use fresh cherries?

Not at all! Frozen cherries work just as well and can be used straight from the freezer. Just make sure to gently pat them dry to avoid excess moisture in the batter.

Is this cake gluten-free?

This recipe uses all-purpose flour, so it is not gluten-free. However, you could experiment with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make it suitable for gluten-intolerant diets.

Can I make this cake vegan?

To veganize this cake, replace butter with a plant-based alternative, use flax eggs or another vegan substitute for eggs, and substitute milk with almond or oat milk. The texture will be slightly different but still delicious.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The bananas should be very ripe, with brown spots or fully brown skins. This ripeness ensures maximum sweetness and moisture, which are essential to this cake’s tender crumb and rich flavor.

Final Thoughts

Baking the Banana and Hazelnut Cake with Cherries is more than just making a dessert—it’s creating a wonderful experience filled with comforting flavors and exciting contrasts. Each slice feels like a little celebration of perfectly balanced ingredients and heartfelt baking. I encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find yourself reaching for it again and again as your new go-to cake for sharing smiles and sweet moments.