This simple banana traybake is a soft, gently sweet cake designed for easy slicing and sharing. Ripe bananas give natural flavour and moisture, while the traybake format keeps everything straightforward and reliable.
It is ideal for family baking, school-day treats, or a relaxed weekend cake. The method is calm and beginner-friendly, with clear visual cues and everyday ingredients that suit home kitchens.
Recipe Information
Difficulty: Beginner
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Ingredients
For the traybake
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125 g unsalted butter, softened
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150 g light brown sugar
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2 medium eggs, at room temperature
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3 ripe bananas, well mashed
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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200 g plain flour
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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½ teaspoon bicarbonate of soda
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2 tablespoons milk
Step-by-Step Method
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Heat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Line a 20 x 30 cm rectangular tin with baking paper, making sure the corners are covered.
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In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until smooth and creamy. The mixture should look lighter in colour and easy to stir.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition so the batter stays smooth.
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Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until evenly combined. The mixture will look loose and speckled.
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In a separate bowl, mix together the flour, baking powder, and bicarbonate of soda.
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Add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and gently fold until no dry flour remains.
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Stir in the milk to loosen the batter slightly. It should drop easily from the spoon but not be runny.
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Spoon the batter into the prepared tin and gently level the surface.
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Bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and a skewer inserted into the centre comes out clean.
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Leave the cake to cool in the tin for 15 minutes, then lift out and allow to cool completely before slicing.
Baking Tips
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Use bananas with brown skins for the best flavour and softness.
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If the top colours too quickly, loosely cover with foil for the final 5 minutes.
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Allow the traybake to cool fully before cutting to keep the slices neat.
Variations (Optional)
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Stir in 75 g chocolate chips for a gentle treat-style version.
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Replace the milk with yogurt for a slightly softer crumb.
Serving Suggestions
Serve sliced on its own, or with a light spread of butter. It works well for lunchboxes, after-school snacks, or as an easy cake to take along when visiting family.
Storage and Reheating
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Slices can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost at room temperature and warm briefly if desired.
