Rum Banana Pecan Cake

• total time: 1 hour 1 minute

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas, mashed

1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1/4 cup (60 ml) dark rum

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups (190 g) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup (60 g) pecans, chopped (plus extra for topping)

1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

Directions

Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes with an electric mixer.

Add eggs and flavorings: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Mix in the mashed bananas, dark rum, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon (if using).

Mix wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Fold in pecans: Gently fold in the chopped pecans, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool the cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Decorate: Once the cake is completely cool, you can top it with additional chopped pecans for decoration. If desired, drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and a little rum mixed with water.

Serve: Slice the cake and serve it on a simple white plate. Enjoy your moist Rum Banana Pecan Cake with a cup of coffee or tea!