Craving a moist, delicious banana cake but short on time and fancy baking equipment? This recipe is for you! Forget complicated mixing bowls and multiple pans – this easy banana cake is made entirely in a frying pan, using just a few simple ingredients, including pancake mix. It's the perfect solution for a quick dessert fix, a spontaneous baking adventure, or even a fun activity to do with kids. The surprisingly simple method yields a delightfully tender cake with the perfect balance of sweetness and banana flavor. No special skills or tools required!
This incredibly convenient recipe utilizes pancake mix as a base, making the preparation a breeze. Forget lengthy baking times in a conventional oven; this cake cooks quickly and evenly in your trusty frying pan. Ready to transform your kitchen into a banana cake paradise? Let's dive into the simple step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Heat-resistant bowl
- Microwave
- Masher or fork
- 18-20cm frying pan
- Rubber spatula
- Bamboo skewer
- Plate
Ingredients
- Pancake mix
- Milk
- Eggs (large): 2
- Granulated sugar
- Banana: 260g (80-100g for batter, rest for topping)
- Unsalted butter
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Banana and Batter
- Peel and cut one banana (approx. 80g) into pieces. Place in a heat-resistant bowl, cover with plastic wrap and microwave at 600W for 1 minute.
- Mash the heated banana.
- Add eggs to the mashed banana and mix well.
- Add granulated sugar and mix immediately to prevent lumping.




- Add milk and mix well.
- Add pancake mix and mix until well combined, ensuring no lumps remain.
- Cut the remaining banana into 1cm-wide pieces for topping.



Step 2. Prepare the Pan and Arrange Bananas
- Melt butter and granulated sugar in the frying pan. Once melted, spread evenly and turn off the heat.
- Arrange banana slices in the pan.


Step 3. Bake the Cake (First Side)
- Pour batter over the bananas. Turn heat to very low, cover, and bake for 10 minutes.

Step 4. Flip and Finish Baking
- After 10 minutes, check doneness with a bamboo skewer. If still raw, carefully loosen the edges and flip the cake. Return to the pan, uncooked side down, cover, and bake for another 5 minutes on very low heat.
- Check doneness again. Remove from heat once cooked through.


Read more: Black Bean Muffins: Easy Recipe with Pancake Mix
Tips
- Aim for 80-100g of banana in the batter for optimal results.
- Heating the bananas slightly enhances their sweetness and softens them for easier mashing.
- Mix the sugar into the batter immediately after adding to prevent clumping.
- Use an 18-20cm frying pan for even cooking. A larger pan will result in a thinner cake.
- Use low heat throughout the baking process to prevent burning.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use a different type of pancake mix?
Yes! Buttermilk, gluten-free, or even just regular pancake mix will work. The results might vary slightly in texture.
2. How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, it's done. The top should also be golden brown.
3. Can I add other ingredients to the cake?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, nuts, or even spices like cinnamon would be delicious additions.
This easy frying pan banana cake recipe proves that delicious desserts don't require hours of baking or complicated techniques. Enjoy this quick and satisfying treat as a comforting snack, a delightful breakfast, or a simple yet impressive dessert. Happy baking!