Ciasto Bananowe Banana Cake

Introducing a delightful addition to your festive baking repertoire – the delicious and heartwarming Ciasto Bananowe, or Banana Cake! Bringing a touch of Poland’s culinary traditions to your holiday table, this moist and flavorful treat is sure to become a family favorite. Bursting with the sweet essence of ripe bananas and a hint of warm spices, this cake is perfect for gatherings or simply enjoying by the fireside with a cup of tea.

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**Ciasto Bananowe (Banana Cake)**

**Ingredients:**
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ cup sour cream
– Optional for garnish: powdered sugar, sliced bananas, or a drizzle of honey

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.

2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until well combined.

5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just incorporated. Be careful not to overmix.

6. Fold in the sour cream gently, ensuring it is evenly distributed throughout the batter.

7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.

8. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

10. Once cooled, garnish the top of the cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar, sliced bananas, or a drizzle of honey for an elegant finishing touch.

Enjoy a slice of this moist and fragrant Ciasto Bananowe with loved ones, savoring the comforting flavors of banana and spice in every bite. Whether served as a dessert at a holiday feast or as a sweet indulgence during quiet moments at home, this Polish-inspired Banana Cake is sure to bring warmth and joy to your winter days.