There’s something quietly satisfying about this Korean Aesthetic Banana Cake. The kind of cake that isn’t flashy, but draws you in with its gentle promise of comfort. I remember one afternoon when the rain was tapping softly against the window, and I was halfway through a book I’d meant to finish days ago. The cake was warm, its crumb tender and just sweet enough to pair with a cup of tea. I wasn’t paying total attention, and somehow managed to drip a bit of the frosting on the table—classic me—but that little imperfection made the moment feel real, not staged.
This cake doesn’t shout for attention, it gently invites you to slow down and enjoy something simple. The soft texture, the subtle banana sweetness, and that delicate crumb almost melt on your tongue. It’s a reminder that sometimes less is more — a quiet indulgence without fuss.
- The texture is soft and moist, with a delicate crumb that feels like a gentle hug.
- The natural sweetness of ripe bananas shines through, no need for overwhelming sugary toppings.
- It’s simple — and that’s kind of the point. No complicated fuss, just honest comfort.
- Perfect for a light dessert or a cozy tea time companion, without feeling heavy.
- It’s easy to make, but don’t expect it to look like a fancy bakery cake; its charm is in its understated elegance.
Sometimes I hesitate before baking because I’m not always sure if I have the right mood or enough time. But this cake comes together in less than an hour, and that quick payoff is always welcome. If you’re the kind of person who appreciates quiet moments and subtle flavors, this will speak to you.
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Korean Aesthetic Banana Cake
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 1x
Description
A soft and moist banana cake inspired by Korean aesthetics, featuring simple ingredients and a delicate crumb. Perfect for a cozy tea time or dessert, this cake highlights the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a light, fluffy texture.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup buttermilk
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
Mix in the vanilla extract and mashed ripe bananas until fully combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture alternately with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined without overmixing.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
Transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
Making this cake doesn’t require special tools — just a simple round pan and basic kitchen equipment you likely already own. It’s a cozy companion for afternoon tea or a light dessert after dinner. I’ve tried adding a few chopped nuts on top before baking, which gave a nice little crunch, but honestly, it’s just as lovely without extras. Sometimes I wonder if a hint of cinnamon would work, though I haven’t tested it enough to say for sure. You could also swap buttermilk for regular milk, but the texture might change slightly — still tasty, though.
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas? Yes, just thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing. It might make the batter a bit looser.
Is this cake best served warm or cold? It’s delightful both ways. Warm feels cozy, cold is refreshing, especially with a cup of tea.
Can I double the recipe? Sure, but bake in two pans or adjust baking time accordingly.
How long does it keep? Stored properly, it stays fresh for a couple of days at room temperature or longer in the fridge.
If you’re craving a quiet moment wrapped up in soft sweetness, this Korean Aesthetic Banana Cake is an easy way to create it. Grab a slice, pour yourself some tea, and let the simple pleasure settle in.