Banana Pecan Cake with Vanilla Glaze

Introduction

Sometimes the simplest cakes are the ones that leave the biggest impression. This Banana Pecan Cake with Vanilla Glaze is one of those timeless recipes—moist, nutty, and sweetened naturally with ripe bananas. The pecans add a delightful crunch, while the silky vanilla glaze ties everything together with just the right amount of sweetness.

Perfect for brunch, dessert, or even an afternoon pick-me-up with coffee or tea, this cake is as comforting as it is versatile. And the best part? It’s quick to make and doesn’t require fancy equipment—just a bowl, a whisk, and a few pantry staples.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed

• 2 large eggs

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup vegetable oil

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• ½ teaspoon baking soda

• Pinch of salt

• ½ cup chopped pecans

For the Vanilla Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar

• 2 tablespoons milk

• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8×8-inch square pan or a 9-inch round pan.

Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Add eggs, sugar, and vegetable oil. Whisk until fully combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, sift together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined. Stir in chopped pecans, being careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the glaze.

Step 6: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze

In a small bowl, whisk powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and pourable. Adjust consistency with a little extra milk if needed.

Step 7: Finish & Serve

Drizzle the glaze over the cooled cake. Slice, serve, and enjoy every moist, nutty bite!

Tips for Success

• Use very ripe bananas for the sweetest, most flavorful cake. Brown spots on the peel are perfect.

• Toast the pecans lightly before adding for deeper flavor.

• Make it ahead: This cake tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

• Add extras: A handful of chocolate chips or shredded coconut can make this cake even more indulgent.

Conclusion

This Banana Pecan Cake with Vanilla Glaze is proof that sometimes, less really is more. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a cake that’s moist, flavorful, and irresistibly comforting. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering, enjoying it for breakfast, or sneaking a slice late at night, this cake is guaranteed to bring smiles.

So next time you’ve got ripe bananas on hand, skip the banana bread and give this recipe a try—it may just become your new favorite.