Forget everything you thought you knew about banana bread! This isn't your grandmother's recipe. We're taking the classic banana cake to a whole new level with a surprisingly simple twist: grilling! Imagine the caramelized sweetness of perfectly grilled bananas infused into a moist, decadent cake, all without a single speck of flour. This recipe delivers an unexpected depth of flavor and texture that will leave your taste buds singing. The secret lies in the careful grilling process which intensifies the natural sweetness of the bananas, creating a unique and unforgettable dessert.
This unbelievably delicious, flourless grilled banana cake is incredibly easy to make, even for novice bakers. The rich, caramelized flavor of the grilled bananas is perfectly balanced by the subtle sweetness of the other ingredients, creating a truly unforgettable treat. Ready to experience the magic of grilled bananas transformed into a delectable cake? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step instructions that will guide you through creating this amazing dessert.
Tools Needed
- Large bowl
- Baking pan (20cm square)
- Stove
- Oven
- Whisk
Ingredients
- Ripe Bananas: 1.2-15 kg
- Sugar: 150g
- Salt: ½ teaspoon (optional, if not pre-washing bananas)
- White Wine or Rum: 2 tablespoons
- Butter: 50g
- Sweetened Condensed Milk: 50g
- Coconut Milk: 500ml
- Eggs: 2
- Bread: 250g
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Bananas
- Peel the bananas and optionally wash them briefly in diluted salt water (2 liters of water, 1 teaspoon of salt) to reduce astringency.
- Marinate the bananas with sugar, salt (optional), and white wine or rum for 1-2 hours at room temperature or overnight in the refrigerator.
- Cook the marinated bananas in a pan over medium heat until boiling, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes until the water is reduced.
- Add butter to the cooked bananas and melt over low heat. Stir in condensed milk.




- Add coconut milk and cook over low heat until hot (do not boil).
- Remove from heat and stir in eggs. Set aside to cool slightly.


Step 2. Combine and Prepare the Batter
- Tear the bread into small pieces.
- Mix the bread into the banana mixture until absorbed.
- Cut some bananas into slices for decoration, and chop the rest into smaller pieces.



Step 3. Bake the Cake
- Preheat the oven to 160°C (top and bottom heat). Grease and line a 20cm square baking pan.
- Layer half of the bread mixture, then the banana mixture, and top with the remaining bread mixture. Decorate with banana slices. Press down firmly to prevent the bananas from separating during baking.
- Bake for 90 minutes on the bottom rack at 160°C.
- Remove the cake, brush with melted butter and honey.




- Bake again at 180°C for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown, in the middle or top rack of the oven.
- Turn off the oven and let the cake cool in the oven for 5-10 minutes before removing. Cool completely before removing from the pan and serving.


Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Using ripe bananas will result in a more delicious cake.
- If you don't have time to marinate the bananas overnight, marinating for 2-4 hours at room temperature is sufficient.
- Rum can be substituted for white wine for added flavor.
- Use unsalted butter for a richer flavor.
- Adjust the amount of coconut milk based on the amount of liquid remaining after cooking the bananas.
- The eggs can be omitted if desired.
- Press down firmly on the banana layers in the baking pan to prevent them from separating during baking.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of bananas?
Yes! Ripe, but not overly mushy, bananas of any variety will work well. The riper they are, the sweeter the cake will be.
2. What can I substitute for the honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar would be good substitutes for the honey. Adjust the amount slightly based on your preferred sweetness.
This flourless grilled banana cake is a delightful surprise, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. The grilling process adds a unique depth and caramelized sweetness that elevates this cake beyond the ordinary. Enjoy this guilt-free treat – a perfect ending to any meal or a satisfying afternoon indulgence!