Indulge in the irresistible aroma and delightful taste of Pandan Banana Cake, a harmonious blend of tropical sweetness and fragrant pandan. This moist and tender cake perfectly balances the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the unique, subtly grassy flavor of pandan extract, creating a truly unforgettable treat. The vibrant green hue adds a visually appealing touch, making it perfect for any occasion, from casual afternoon tea to a celebratory gathering. Imagine the soft, fluffy texture melting in your mouth, leaving you wanting more.
This recipe unlocks the secret to achieving the perfect Pandan Banana Cake, ensuring a consistently delicious result every time. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a kitchen novice, this step-by-step guide will walk you through each stage of the process, from preparing the ingredients to achieving that signature beautiful green color and ensuring even baking. Let's get started!
Tools Needed
- Food processor
- Steamer
- Mixing bowls
- Sieve
- Saucepan
- Baking pan
Ingredients
- Bananas (Black Sim Bananas): 8-9 medium, or 800-880 grams
- Palm Sugar: 150 grams
- Coconut Milk: 400 ml
- All-purpose flour: 145 grams
- Tapioca Starch: 145 grams
- Rice Flour: 145 grams
- Pandan Leaves: 100 grams
- Water: 5 ml (for pandan paste), 500ml (for pandan extract)
- White Sesame Seeds
- Black Sesame Seeds
- Peanuts
- Potato Starch: 30 grams
- Salt
- Sugar (granulated or brown sugar)
- White Wine (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Banana and Pandan Ingredients
- Other banana types can be used but Black Sim bananas are preferred for their sweetness).
- Grind pandan leaves with a small amount of water to create a fine paste (100g pandan leaves and 5ml water). Let it sit for 45-60 minutes to extract essence. Strain and keep only the pandan essence.
- Simmer the bananas. After marinating, simmer the banana mixture over medium heat for 25-30 minutes, or until the sugar dissolves and the bananas become soft. Reduce heat to low once boiling.
- Mash the bananas. Once simmered, turn off the heat and mash the bananas until smooth.
Step 2. Combine and Rest the Batter
- Mix the flours. In a bowl, combine all-purpose flour, tapioca starch and rice flour. Add coconut milk and boiling water, stir until dissolved. Let this mixture rest for 30 minutes to 1 hour to allow the flour to expand.
- the heat from the bananas will partially cook the flour).
Step 3. Bake the Cake
- Prepare the baking pan. Grease a baking pan and pour in the banana batter. Arrange sliced bananas on top.
- Steam the cake. Steam the cake over medium heat for 25-30 minutes. Ensure sufficient water in the steamer throughout the cooking time.
Step 4. Prepare and Serve
- Make the coconut milk topping. Combine coconut milk, sugar, and a few pandan leaves in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Cool and serve. Let the cake cool completely before slicing and serving. Top with coconut milk topping, sesame seeds and roasted peanuts.
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Palm sugar adds a unique fragrant and sweet taste, but granulated or brown sugar can be substituted.
- Optional: Add a little white wine to enhance the banana flavor.
- Don't overcook the coconut milk topping; it should be slightly thickened, not too runny.
- To achieve crispy texture, mix the flour into the hot banana mixture. For a softer cake, mix the banana into the flour instead.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the pandan extract?
While pandan extract gives the best flavor and color, you can try using a few drops of green food coloring and a teaspoon of vanilla extract for a similar effect. The flavor will be different, however.
2. How can I tell if my bananas are ripe enough?
Ripe bananas for baking should be very soft, with brown spots on the peel. They should yield slightly to the touch. Overripe bananas will work best for maximum sweetness and moisture.
This Pandan Banana Cake recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Enjoy the fragrant and moist result of your baking efforts, perfect for sharing with friends and family. Happy baking!