As Father’s Day approaches, I’m always on the lookout for the perfect dessert to celebrate with my dad. This year, I’ve found it in the form of a super delicious and over-the-top banana peanut butter chocolate chip cake. This cake is the ultimate indulgence, combining all of my dad’s favorite flavors into one decadent dessert.
While this cake is already pretty perfect as is, there are a few variations you can try to make it your own. For example, you could swap out the chocolate chips for chopped nuts or add a layer of caramel sauce between the cake layers. No matter how you choose to customize it, this banana peanut butter chocolate chip cake is sure to be a hit with any dad who loves a good dessert.
Why This Cake is Perfect for Father’s Day
Father’s Day is all about celebrating the special men in our lives. This banana peanut butter chocolate chip cake is the perfect way to show your dad just how much you care. The combination of rich chocolate, creamy peanut butter, and sweet banana makes for a cake that is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy enough for even a beginner baker to make. Whether you’re serving it for dessert after a special Father’s Day dinner or just enjoying a slice together over coffee, this cake is sure to make your dad feel loved and appreciated.
This cake is actually a variation of my (or my grandma’s!) classic banana bread recipe, but with a few added twists. The peanut butter and chocolate chips take this cake to the next level, making it a true crowd-pleaser.
Recipe for the Super Delicious and Over-The-Top Banana Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip Cake
Preparing a delicious banana peanut butter chocolate chip cake is easier than you may think. In this section, I will guide you through the process of baking a mouth-watering cake that will leave you and your family raving about it for the years to come.
Ingredients for the Cake
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
- 3/4 cup whole milk
- 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Ingredients for the Peanut Butter Frosting
- 1 cup creamy peanut butter
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup whole milk
For the Toppings
- 1 cup chopped salted peanuts
- 1 cup mini chocolate chips
- 1 cup crushed banana chips
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (175 °C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, mashed bananas, and peanut butter.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mix until just combined.
5. Fold the chocolate chips into the batter until they are evenly distributed.
6. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pans and bake for 25—30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
7. To make the peanut butter frosting, cream the peanut butter and butter together until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until well combined. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk and mix until smooth.
8. To assemble the cake, place one cake layer on a cake plate and spread a layer of peanut butter frosting over the top. Sprinkle with chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, and banana chips. Place the second cake layer on top and spread the remaining frosting over the top and sides of the cake. Sprinkle with more chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, and banana chips.
9. Chill the cake in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to set the frosting.
10. Once the frosting has set, remove the cake from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving.
11. Slice and serve the cake, garnished with additional chopped peanuts, mini chocolate chips, and banana chips if desired.
Tips and Variations
When it comes to making a banana peanut butter chocolate chip cake, there are several tips and variations that can take this already delicious dessert to the next level.
Firstly, using super ripe bananas is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor. Overripe bananas — those which you wouldn’t dare to eat as such — work best as they are sweeter and softer, making them easier to mash and incorporate into the batter.
Adding mini chocolate chips to the batter is a great way to enhance the chocolate flavor without overpowering the peanut butter and banana. Peanut butter chips can also be used for an extra peanut buttery twist. For an even richer flavor, try using dark chocolate chips instead of semi-sweet.
When it comes to flour, all-purpose flour is the go-to for most baking recipes, but substituting some of it with whole wheat flour can add a nutty flavor and extra fiber. Alternatively, gluten-free flour can be used for those with dietary restrictions.
To keep your cake moist, be sure not to overmix the batter, as this can cause the cake to become tough. Also, don’t overbake the cake – it’s better to underbake it slightly and let it finish cooking as it cools.
To make the cake even more decadent, a chocolate ganache or frosting can be added on top. A simple powdered sugar glaze can also be used for a lighter option.
Don’t skimp on the crunchy toppings — they give the real characteristics to this cake. This cake is all about the fireworks of different textures and flavors that make this cake particularly fun and satisfying to eat.
Lastly, this cake is perfect for Father’s Day as it is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed as a dessert or a snack with a cup of tea or coffee. It can also be frozen in an airtight container for a quick and easy treat. For an extra special touch, adding chocolate kisses or nuts on top can make it a personalized and thoughtful gift for dad.
Other fabulous cakes for Father’s Day
Check these cake recipes for more super delicious and palate pleasing cakes: