There’s something about the way bananas and chocolate come together that feels like a quiet celebration in your kitchen. I remember the afternoon I tried this banana cake with Nutella swirl for the first time. The house smelled like warm bananas and a hint of hazelnut, a mix that made me pause mid-scroll on my phone. The cake was still slightly warm, the Nutella creating pockets of gooey richness that made each bite a little surprise. I wasn’t expecting perfection—the swirl didn’t spread evenly, and I probably pulled the knife through the batter a bit too vigorously, but those little imperfections made it feel homemade and real. It was one of those moments when you realize dessert is more than just food; it’s a comforting pause in a busy day.
Why You’ll Love It:
- The cake is moist and tender, thanks to ripe bananas that keep it soft without feeling heavy.
- Nutella adds a luscious swirl of chocolate-hazelnut goodness, but it’s not overpowering, so the banana still shines through.
- It’s simple—and that’s kind of the point. No complicated techniques, just a few bowls and an oven.
- Perfect for a snack or dessert, this cake holds its charm whether fresh or a day old (though I admit, I’m partial to it warm).
Even if you’re not a baker by trade, this recipe feels approachable. It’s forgiving if you don’t swirl the Nutella just right or if the batter isn’t perfectly smooth. The end result still rewards you with a cozy, rich treat that’s worth the little mess and the wait.
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Banana Cake with Nutella Swirl
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
A moist and flavorful banana cake swirled with rich Nutella, perfect for dessert or a sweet snack.
Ingredients
1 1/2 cups ripe bananas, mashed (about 3 medium bananas)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup Nutella
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, eggs, granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, yogurt, and vanilla extract until well combined.
In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
Pour half of the banana cake batter into the prepared cake pan and spread evenly.
Drop spoonfuls of Nutella over the batter layer, then pour the remaining banana cake batter on top.
Using a knife or skewer, gently swirl the Nutella into the batter to create a marbled effect.
Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
Kitchen Notes:
I usually bake this cake in a basic round pan—nothing fancy—and it comes out just right. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of black coffee or a simple glass of milk, especially if you’re indulging in it as an afternoon pick-me-up. If you’re feeling adventurous, you might try swapping plain yogurt for a bit of sour cream to add a tangy depth, or sprinkle some chopped hazelnuts on top before baking for extra crunch. I haven’t tested it with a gluten-free flour blend, but that might be worth trying if you’re curious.
FAQ:
Can I use less Nutella? Yes, definitely! You can add more or less depending on how rich you want the swirl.
How ripe should the bananas be? The riper, the better—brown spots and all. They bring out the best flavor and moisture.
Can this be made ahead? Yes, it keeps well for a couple of days at room temperature or in the fridge for longer. Just warm it slightly before serving if you want that fresh-baked feel.
This banana cake with Nutella swirl is waiting for you to try it out—don’t let it stay just a craving. Save it, bake it, and enjoy every imperfectly perfect bite.