Banana bread or cake is a timeless classic, enjoyed by people of all ages. But who says you can’t add a little twist to the classic recipe? Today, we’re introducing 6 easy and creative banana bread recipes inspired by the delicious treats at MyKitchen101en. From light and airy chiffon to scrumptious steamed cupcakes, there’s something for everyone!

6 easy banana bread and cakes recipes

Banana Bread or Banana Cake: What is the Difference?

While both banana bread and banana cake are made with ripe bananas, they do have some key differences that set them apart. In this section, we’ll explore the main distinctions between these two delicious desserts to help you decide which one to bake next.

AspectBanana BreadBanana Cake
TextureDenser, bread-like with a tighter crumbLighter, airier with a tender crumb
Ingredients & PreparationLess sugar, less fat, higher ratio of bananasMore sugar, more fat, additional leavening agents
Baking Time & TemperatureLower temperature, longer baking timeHigher temperature, shorter baking time
Serving & PresentationServed in thick slices, as breakfast or a snackServed as cupcakes or layered cake, for dessert
  1. Texture: The primary difference between banana bread and banana cake lies in their texture. Banana bread is denser and more like a bread, as the name suggests. It has a tighter crumb and is typically less sweet than its counterpart. Banana cake, on the other hand, is lighter and airier, boasting a tender crumb that closely resembles a traditional cake.
  2. Ingredients and Preparation: While the base ingredients for both banana bread and banana cake are similar, their ratios and preparation methods differ. Banana bread usually contains less sugar, less fat, and a higher ratio of bananas, which contributes to its denser texture. In contrast, banana cake typically has more sugar, and fat, and sometimes includes additional leavening agents like baking powder, which give it a fluffier, cake-like consistency.
  3. Baking Time and Temperature: Banana bread is often baked at a lower temperature for a longer period of time, allowing the dense loaf to cook through without drying out. Banana cake, with its lighter texture, usually requires a higher temperature and shorter baking time.
  4. Serving and Presentation: Banana bread is often served in thick slices, similar to how you would serve a loaf of bread. It is perfect for breakfast or as a midday snack, often accompanied by butter or cream cheese. Banana cake, on the other hand, is typically served in individual portions like cupcakes or as a layered cake with frosting, making it a popular choice for dessert.

While banana bread and banana cake share similarities in their use of ripe bananas, their differences in texture, ingredients, and preparation methods set them slightly apart. Whether you prefer the denser, bread-like texture of banana bread or the lighter, cake-like consistency of banana cake, there’s always a perfect recipe out there for every banana lover.

Creative Twists on the Classic Recipe

1 Light and Fluffy Banana Chiffon

If you’re looking for a light and airy alternative to the traditional dense banana bread, try this Banana Chiffon Cake recipe. Made without artificial flavorings, this cake boasts a natural banana taste that’s perfect for those who prefer a lighter dessert. Full of flavor and delicate texture, this chiffon cake is sure to impress your guests. Recipe Link: https://mykitchen101en.com/banana-chiffon-cake-no-artificial-flavouring/

Banana Chiffon Cake (No Artificial Flavoring)
Made with ripe bananas with no artificial flavoring added, this soft and fluffy Banana Chiffon Cake has a very nice natural banana fragrance.
Check out this recipe
Banana Chiffon Cake without artificial flavouring

2 Steamed Banana Cupcakes: A Unique Twist on the Classic

Switch up your baking game by trying these Steamed Banana Cupcakes. Steaming the cupcakes creates a moist, tender crumb that’s different from the traditional method. With a touch of cinnamon and brown sugar, these banana cupcakes make for a delightful and unique treat. Recipe Link: https://mykitchen101en.com/steamed-banana-cupcakes/

Steamed Banana Cupcakes
If you don’t have an oven to bake a banana cake, you may try to make this soft and fluffy steamed banana cake.
Check out this recipe
banana cupcakes

3 Soft and Moist Banana Bread

This recipe for Soft and Moist Banana Bread relies solely on the natural flavor of ripe bananas, making it a hit for purists. The result is a moist, tender cake that’s perfect for those who love the taste of banana without any added artificial flavors. Recipe Link: https://mykitchen101en.com/soft-moist-banana-cakes-no-banana-essence/

Moist Banana Bread Recipe (No Banana Essence)
One of the great ways to use up overripe bananas is to use them to make delicious banana cakes.
Check out this recipe

4 Baked Banana Walnut Egg Sponge Cakes: A Nutty Delight

Add a delicious crunch to your banana bread/cake with this Banana Sponge Cake recipe. With the addition of walnuts, this cake offers a delightful contrast in textures, making for a more exciting and flavorful dessert. Enjoy this nutty treat with a cup of tea or coffee. Recipe Link: https://mykitchen101en.com/baked-banana-walnut-egg-sponge-cakes/

Baked Banana Walnut
Another variation of egg sponge cake, this time with banana and walnut added. No artificial flavouring or chemical raising agent (e.g. baking powder or baking soda) are added in this recipe.
Check out this recipe
Baked Banana Walnut Egg Sponge Cakes-No Artificial Flavouring/Baking Powder/Baking Soda

5 Fried Banana Fritter: A Tasty Banana Bread Ball

Take a break from the traditional loaf and try these Fried Banana Bread Fritter Balls, also known as Cekodok Pisang. This Malaysian snack is made from mashed bananas, flour, sugar, and a pinch of salt. The fritters are then deep-fried, resulting in a crispy exterior and a soft, sweet interior. They make for a perfect snack or dessert. Recipe Link: https://mykitchen101en.com/fried-banana-fritter-balls-cekodok-pisang/

Fried Banana Fritter Balls (Cekodok Pisang)
Turn leftover bananas into these banana fritter balls. These banana bread fritters can usually be found in roadside stalls in Southeast Asia as snacks.
Check out this recipe
Banana Fritter Balls

6 Banana Huat Kuih: A Chinese Style Steamed Banana Treat

This Chinese style steamed banana bread recipe offers a unique take on the classic banana bread. These steamed cakes are made without eggs or artificial flavorings, making them a great option for those with dietary restrictions. The soft, fluffy texture and natural banana flavor make this treat an irresistible addition to your repertoire. Recipe Link: https://mykitchen101en.com/banana-huat-kuih-no-egg-no-artificial-flavouring/

Banana Huat Kuih
Easy to make, soft and fluffy Banana Huat Kuih, it is eggless and no artificial flavouring added. Rice flour is used to replace part of plain flour to help the huat kuih blooming well.
Check out this recipe
banana huat kuih

These 6 easy recipes of banana bread and cake with creative twists are perfect for anyone looking to try something new in the kitchen. Whether you prefer a light and fluffy chiffon cake or a steamed treat without eggs, there’s a banana bread recipes or cake recipes for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment and add your own personal touches to these delicious creations. Happy baking and cooking!

We hope you enjoy making and indulging in this delightful banana cake or banan bread recipe! We’d love to hear your thoughts, so please don’t hesitate to leave a comment below and share your experience. If you tried this recipe, we’d also appreciate it if you could take a moment to rate it. Your feedback helps us to improve our recipes.


6 easy banana recipes