Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake 😋💕
A Moist, Dreamy Dessert with Deep Chocolate Flavor and a Banana Boost
When chocolate and bananas join forces in cake form, magic happens. This Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake is everything you want in a show-stopping dessert: rich, fudgy, moist from ripe bananas, and smothered in a fluffy chocolate frosting that practically melts on your tongue.
It’s the kind of cake that disappears quickly at birthdays, brunches, or family dinners—and no one will believe how easy it is to make from scratch.
Why I Love This Recipe
This recipe takes the classic comfort of banana bread and levels it up with rich cocoa and a decadent chocolate frosting. The bananas keep the cake incredibly moist, the buttermilk adds tang and tenderness, and the double chocolate hit satisfies every craving.
It’s a dream dessert for chocolate lovers and banana fans alike—and perfect for using up those overripe bananas hanging out on your counter.
Ingredients
For the Chocolate Banana Cake:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
For the Chocolate Frosting:
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 ½ cups powdered sugar
- ¾ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Chocolate shavings
- Banana slices
Substitutions & Notes
- Buttermilk: You can use a mixture of 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice + milk to create a quick substitute.
- Oil: Use melted butter for a richer flavor, though oil keeps the cake extra moist.
- Bananas: The riper, the better—brown spots mean sweeter flavor and better texture.
- Frosting Variations: Swap cocoa frosting for cream cheese frosting for a tangy contrast.
How to Make Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake
🍌 Prepare the Cake:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In another large bowl, beat eggs, sugar, buttermilk, oil, and vanilla until well combined. Stir in mashed bananas.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir just until combined.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth the tops.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
🍫 Prepare the Frosting:
- Beat softened butter until creamy and light.
- Add powdered sugar and cocoa powder in batches, beating until combined.
- Pour in heavy cream, vanilla, and a pinch of salt. Beat until smooth and fluffy.
🍰 Assemble the Cake:
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a thick layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides.
- Garnish with chocolate shavings and fresh banana slices (add bananas just before serving to prevent browning).
❄️ Chill:
Refrigerate for 30 minutes before slicing for clean, beautiful layers.
Tips for Success
- Cool cakes fully before frosting to prevent the icing from melting.
- Use room temperature ingredients for a smooth batter and better texture.
- Decorate just before serving if using fresh bananas—they brown quickly.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This cake is a statement all by itself, but if you’re creating a dessert spread, pair it with:
- A scoop of vanilla or banana ice cream
- Fresh berries for a tart contrast
- A drizzle of warm fudge or brownie batter dip on the side
Or slice and serve alongside other banana or chocolate favorites like:
Storage & Leftovers
- Room Temp: Store covered for up to 2 days.
- Fridge: Keeps well for 4–5 days—cover tightly to retain moisture.
- Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 2 months. Wrap in plastic and foil. Thaw before frosting.
More Chocolatey Treats You’ll Love
If you’re all about rich, chocolate-forward desserts, don’t miss these fan favorites:
- Brownie Batter Dip – For that instant chocolate fix
- Cookie Dough Brownie Bombs – Decadent and bite-sized
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Bites – A fast treat with big payoff
- No-Bake Oreo Cream Pie – Silky and satisfying
Final Thoughts
This Double Chocolate Banana Layer Cake is pure dessert gold—rich but not too heavy, sweet but balanced, and absolutely stunning on a dessert table. Whether you’re celebrating something big or just in the mood for chocolate, it’s a guaranteed hit.
Give it a try and let us know how it turns out! Share your cake pics and tag @chefmaniac or leave a comment with your own twist. For more banana and chocolate love, explore our full recipe collection.
Stay sweet!
