If you’re looking for a dessert that feels indulgent yet fuels your body with wholesome goodness, this Healthy Banana Walnut Cake Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with natural sweetness from ripe bananas and gently spiced with cinnamon, this cake combines tender crumb and crunchy walnuts in every bite. It’s moist, flavorful, and easy to whip up, offering a perfect way to enjoy a treat without any guilt. Whether for breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a light dessert, this cake brings warmth and comfort while keeping things healthy and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of baking ingredients neatly arranged on a white marbled surface. In the center, there is a large clear glass bowl filled with white flour with a small well in the middle. To the right of it, two smaller clear bowls hold thick white yogurt and golden yellow melted butter. Below, a clear bowl contains beaten eggs with a yellow-orange color. On the left side, three ripe bananas covered in brown spots lay together, showing their yellow and brown-speckled skins. Near the bottom, there is a small white cup with baking soda, a small black and white measuring spoon with vanilla extract, and a small clear bowl filled with crushed nuts that have a light brown crumbly texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this cake plays a vital role, from the hearty white whole wheat flour that adds fiber and structure, to the mashed bananas that create moisture and natural sweetness. The walnuts bring a delightful crunch and a boost of healthy fats, making every slice perfectly balanced. Here’s the simple lineup of ingredients that come together to make this cake both wholesome and scrumptious.

White whole wheat flour (1 1/2 cups): Provides a nutty flavor and more fiber than regular flour, enhancing the cake’s texture.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise and stay light.
Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works alongside baking powder for perfect leavening and tenderness.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, cozy spice that pairs beautifully with banana.
Mash of very ripe bananas (1 cup): Brings natural sweetness and moisture, the heart of this cake.
Plain Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Adds creaminess and protein while keeping the cake moist without excess fat.
Eggs (2, lightly beaten): Bind everything together and add richness.
Olive oil (1/4 cup): A healthy fat that keeps the cake tender with a subtle fruity note.
Pure maple syrup (3-4 tablespoons): Offers natural sweetness and depth, adjustable to your liking.
Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): Elevates the flavors and gives that homey aroma.
Walnuts (3/4 cup, finely chopped or ground): Adds crunchy texture and a boost of heart-healthy fats.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Healthy Banana Walnut Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F to ensure even baking. Grease an 8-inch square pan and line it with parchment paper; this step makes removing the cake effortless and cleanup a breeze.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, sift together the white whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Combining these first helps distribute the leavening agents and spices evenly throughout your cake for a uniform rise and flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Wet Mixture

In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly using a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth. Then add the Greek yogurt, lightly beaten eggs, olive oil, pure maple syrup, and vanilla extract. Mix everything well to unite the flavors and ensure a moist batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with your dry mixture and gently fold together using a spatula. Be careful not to overmix; you want the batter just combined to keep the texture light. Finally, fold in the chopped walnuts to distribute that delightful crunch evenly.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Transfer your batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly. Bake in your preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached.

Step 6: Cool and Optional Frosting

Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack before removing it from the pan. If you’d like, spread cream cheese frosting on top to add a creamy finish. For best results, refrigerate the frosted cake for 30 minutes before slicing, which helps the frosting set perfectly.

How to Serve Healthy Banana Walnut Cake Recipe

A square cake with one visible layer is placed on a white marbled surface with parchment paper underneath and a cooling rack beneath it. The cake layer is light brown and topped with a thick, uneven layer of white cream spread across the top, showing smooth and slightly textured swirls. The edges of the cream layer extend close to the cake's sides but do not fully cover them. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To bring out the cake’s natural flavors, consider sprinkling some extra chopped walnuts or a light dusting of cinnamon on top. A drizzle of pure maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar can also add a pretty, sweet touch without overpowering the wholesome goodness.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a scoop of vanilla yogurt for extra creaminess. For an indulgent brunch, serve it alongside fresh berries or a small glass of your favorite nut milk for a balanced and satisfying meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Cut the cake into small squares and thread onto skewers alternating with banana slices and walnut halves for a fun party treat. You might also serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream or a swirl of homemade fruit compote to elevate the experience.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your leftover banana walnut cake stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to preserve its moisture and flavor. If refrigerated, it will last about 5 days but might require gentle warming before serving.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen slices are best enjoyed within 2 months and can be thawed overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before eating.

Reheating

To bring back that fresh-baked warmth, reheat slices in a microwave for 15–20 seconds or pop them into a toaster oven for a couple minutes. Be sure not to overheat to keep the cake moist and tender.

FAQs

Can I use regular whole wheat flour instead of white whole wheat?

Absolutely! Regular whole wheat flour will work but may result in a denser cake with a heartier flavor. White whole wheat is milder and makes the cake a bit lighter in texture if you prefer that.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Greek yogurt?

Plain yogurt or sour cream can be used as alternatives. They will keep the cake moist and tender, although Greek yogurt adds extra protein and thickness that helps with the cake’s structure.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegan?

Yes, you can swap the eggs for flax or chia egg substitutes and use a plant-based yogurt along with a vegan-friendly oil. Keep in mind the texture may vary slightly but it will still be delicious!

How ripe should the bananas be?

The riper, the better! Look for bananas with lots of brown spots and soft skin, as they are naturally sweeter and easier to mash, which adds maximum moistness and flavor to your cake.

Can I add other nuts or dried fruits?

Definitely! Pecans, almonds, or even dried cranberries or raisins can be mixed in to customize the texture and flavor. Just adjust quantities so the batter isn’t overloaded and bakes evenly.

Final Thoughts

This Healthy Banana Walnut Cake Recipe is hands down one of my personal favorites for when you want something that feels like a treat but is actually nourishing. It’s simple, made with thoughtful ingredients, and perfect for any time of day. I can’t wait for you to try it and discover how satisfying healthy baking can be!