Description
This Tahini Banana Snack Cake is a moist, naturally dairy-free treat blending ripe bananas with nutty tahini and lightly sweetened with maple syrup. Perfect as a wholesome breakfast, snack, or dessert, it offers a tender crumb with a hint of warm cinnamon and optional sesame seed topping for added texture. Easy to prepare and baked in just 30 minutes, this Middle Eastern-inspired cake is both delicious and nutritious.
Ingredients
Scale
Wet Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- ½ cup tahini
- â…“ cup maple syrup or honey
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour (or whole wheat flour)
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
Topping (Optional)
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and either grease an 8×8-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the cake.
- Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, tahini, maple syrup (or honey), eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined, creating a creamy batter base.
- Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt thoroughly to evenly distribute the leavening and spices throughout the cake.
- Incorporate dry into wet: Add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients and stir gently just until combined. Avoid overmixing to maintain a tender texture in the cake.
- Transfer batter and add topping: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and smooth the top evenly with a spatula. If desired, sprinkle sesame seeds over the surface for a nutty crunch and visual appeal.
- Bake the cake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and serve: Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan before slicing into 9 squares. This allows the cake to set and makes slicing easier.
Notes
- For added texture and flavor, try stirring in ¼ cup chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
- This cake is naturally dairy-free and lightly sweetened, making it a wholesome option for breakfast, snacks, or a light dessert.
- Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier taste and increased fiber content.
