Lenten banana tea cake

Ingredients

Tea Cake

300 grams (10.6 ounces) overripe bananas
250 grams (8.8 ounces or 2 cups) flour
200 milliliters (6.8 fluid ounces or 3/4 cup) orange juice
90 grams (3.2 ounces or 1/2 cup) sugar
75 milliliters (5 tablespoons or 2.5 fluid ounces) vegetable oil
Zest of 1 orange
50 grams (1.8 ounces or 1/3 cup) dried figs
40 grams (1.4 ounces or 1/4 cup) walnuts
1 teaspoon (5 grams) baking soda

Glaze

40 grams (1.4 ounces or 1/3 cup) powdered sugar
15 milliliters (1 tablespoon or 0.5 fluid ounces) orange juice

Equipment

Mixing Bowls
Use large, sturdy mixing bowls to easily combine your ingredients without spilling. Opt for ones with non-slip bases for added stability.
Blender or Fork
A blender makes quick work of mashing bananas to a smooth consistency, but a trusty fork can also do the job with a bit more effort.
Baking Mold
A well-greased and floured baking mold ensures your cake releases effortlessly once baked. Silicon molds can be great to prevent stickiness.
Wooden Skewer
This indispensable tool helps you check if your cake is fully baked—insert it into the center and see if it comes out clean.
Whisk
A whisk is ideal for combining the glaze ingredients smoothly. Electric whisks can save you some arm workout!

Instructions

Step 1

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (356°F).

Step 2

2. Soak the figs in boiling water for 5 minutes. Drain and pat them dry, then cut into 1cm (0.40 inch) cubes. You can soak figs in orange juice for extra flavor.

Step 3

3. Toast the walnuts in a dry pan until fragrant, then peel and chop them finely.

Step 4

4. Grease your baking mold with a bit of vegetable oil and sprinkle it lightly with flour to prevent sticking. Shake out the excess flour.

Step 5

5. Mash the overripe bananas in a bowl using a fork or blend them until smooth. Add the orange juice, sugar, baking soda, and vegetable oil, then mix well.

Step 6

6. Stir in the orange zest, chopped walnuts, and figs into the banana mixture.

Step 7

7. Sift the flour into the batter in 2-3 additions, folding gently each time until fully combined.

Step 8

8. Pour the batter into the prepared mold and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts browning too quickly, cover it with aluminum foil.

Step 9

9. Let the tea cake cool in the mold for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 10

10. For the glaze, mix the sifted powdered sugar with 1 tablespoon of orange juice until smooth.

Step 11

11. Once the tea cake has cooled, pour the glaze over it and optionally decorate with extra orange zest and chopped nuts. Let the glaze set before slicing the cake.

Servings

Indulge in our Banana Tea Cake with Orange Glaze by serving it warm or at room temperature. For a special twist, pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream to enhance the cake’s natural sweetness. 🍰

Planning a brunch? Wow your guests by pairing this cake with a refreshing citrus salad on the side—it complements the orange glaze beautifully. 🥗 Or, for a more indulgent experience, drizzle a bit of honey over each slice for that extra touch of sweetness. 🍯

This cake also makes a delightful gift. Slice it into generous portions, wrap them up in colorful parchment paper, and tie with festive ribbons. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just to bring a smile to someone's face! 🎁💕

Variations

Looking to make this cake gluten-free? Substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Ensure your baking soda and other ingredients are certified gluten-free as well. 🍰✨

For a vegan version, swap out the sugar with an equal amount of coconut sugar and use a plant-based milk instead of orange juice. Use an equal amount of any neutral-flavored oil or applesauce instead of eggs. Voila! You’ve got yourself a vegan treat that’s delicious and easy on the conscience. 🌱💚

Faq

What can I use instead of overripe bananas?
If you don't have overripe bananas, ripe bananas will work fine. Alternatively, you can use mashed pumpkin or applesauce for a different flavor profile.
Can I make this cake without nuts?
Absolutely! You can omit the nuts entirely or replace them with seeds such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds if you prefer.
How can I ensure my cake is moist?
Using overripe bananas and not overbaking the cake are key. Adding a bit of yogurt or sour cream to the batter can also contribute to moisture.
Can I add other fruits to the cake?
Yes, you can mix in other dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries. Be mindful of the moisture content and adjust as necessary.
How do I get a smooth glaze without lumps?
Sift the powdered sugar before mixing it with orange juice, and whisk thoroughly to ensure a smooth, lump-free glaze.
Can I use this recipe to make cupcakes?
Yes, you can pour the batter into cupcake molds. Just be sure to adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes and check for doneness with a toothpick.