Chocolate Marble Banana Bundt Cake

By:

jeremy

Published:

September 19, 2025

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Chocolate Marble Banana Bundt Cake is a scrumptious treat that combines the best of both worlds: rich chocolate and sweet bananas. Picture this: you wake up on a Sunday morning, the sun streaming through your kitchen window, and the tantalizing aroma of baking bananas and chocolate fills the air. That’s the magic of this delightful cake! The moist texture makes it perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to festive celebrations. Making this cake is not only simple but also fun. Grab your favorite apron, gather the ingredients, and let’s create a dessert that will impress everyone around you. The Chocolate Marble Banana Bundt Cake is as much about sharing love through baking as it is about enjoying a slice or two for yourself.

Why This Recipe Works

The magic of this Chocolate Marble Banana Bundt Cake lies in the marriage of ripe bananas and decadent chocolate. Ripe bananas are naturally sweet and enhance the cake’s moisture, ensuring a tender crumb. Additionally, the bundt cake technique allows for an even bake, creating a beautiful presentation that beckons to be shared.

Moreover, the ganache adds layers of flavor. Imagine biting into a slice of this cake and enjoying the rich, creamy chocolate with every forkful. The ganache elevates the experience, making it a truly decadent dessert. It’s the kind of cake that makes an ordinary day feel special.

Why You’ll Love This Chocolate Marble Banana Bundt Cake

This Chocolate Marble Banana Bundt Cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a casual family get-together or a holiday feast, everyone will appreciate this sweet creation. With a delightful balance of banana and chocolate flavors, it caters to both chocolate lovers and banana aficionados alike.

The versatility of presentation is another highlight. You can serve it plain, dusted with powdered sugar, or topped with whipped cream and berries for an eye-catching dessert. Each serving not only satisfies sweet cravings but also sparks joy among friends and family.

Ingredients for Chocolate Marble Banana Bundt Cake

Ganache Swirl & Topping

2 (4-ounce) quality semi-sweet chocolate bars, finely chopped (113g each)
1 cup (8 ounces; 240ml) heavy cream or heavy whipping cream

Cake

1 and 1/2 cups (345g) mashed bananas (about 4 medium or 3 large ripe bananas)
3 cups (375g) all-purpose flour (spooned & leveled)
1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup (12 Tbsp; 170g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar
3 large eggs, at room temperature
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
1 and 1/3 cups (320ml) buttermilk, at room temperature

How to Make Chocolate Marble Banana Bundt Cake

Make the Ganache

To create the ganache, you’ll begin by placing the chopped chocolate in a medium heat-proof bowl. Then, heat the cream over medium heat in a small saucepan until it starts to gently simmer—be cautious to avoid rapid boiling. Next, pour the hot cream over the chocolate, letting it sit for about 2-3 minutes. After that, stir slowly until it’s fully combined and melted. You’ll end up with about 1 and 1/2 cups of luscious ganache. Set aside half (3/4 cup) at room temperature to thicken, and cover and refrigerate the remainder for later.

Preheat the Oven

Before mixing your ingredients, preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C). Take a moment to generously grease a 10-inch Bundt pan. This step is crucial to ensure your cake releases easily after baking.

Prepare the Cake Batter

First, mash the bananas in a mixer until nearly smooth, then set them aside. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.

Next, in a mixing bowl, beat the softened butter on high speed until it’s creamy. Gradually add both sugars, mixing for about 2 minutes until well combined. Afterward, incorporate the eggs and vanilla, followed by the mashed bananas. The mixture might appear slightly chunky at this stage.

Then, slowly mix in the dry ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk. Be careful not to over-mix; the batter should be thick with some lumps.

Layer the Batter and Ganache

To start layering, pour 1/3 of the cake batter into the Bundt pan. Drizzle half of the reserved ganache over this layer and swirl it with a knife or toothpick for a marbled effect. Next, repeat this process with another third of the batter and half the ganache, and finish with the final third of the batter. Swirl once more to combine.

Bake the Cake

Now it’s time to bake! Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60 to 75 minutes. You’ll want to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the cake; it should come out clean, perhaps with a few moist crumbs adhering. If it’s browning too quickly, simply tent it with aluminum foil.

Cool and Top the Cake

After baking, allow the cake to cool inside the pan for about 2 hours. Once it’s cool enough, carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack and let it cool completely before you add the topping. Reheat the reserved ganache to a drizzle-able consistency before pouring it over the cooled cake.

Serving Suggestions

Now that you’ve created a fantastic Chocolate Marble Banana Bundt Cake, you have plenty of serving options. Slices can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds to the delight. Don’t forget about a drizzle of salted caramel for an added flavor dimension. This cake shines during brunches, casual coffee gatherings, or as a dessert after dinner.

Tips for Success

For the best results, ensure your bananas are very ripe. Ripe bananas provide maximum sweetness and moisture, which are essential for the cake’s texture. Additionally, using high-quality chocolate for the ganache will elevate the overall flavor profile. Lastly, avoid over-mixing the batter, as it can lead to a denser cake.

Variations

If you want to switch things up, consider substituting the semi-sweet chocolate with dark chocolate for a more rich flavor. You could also add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for added texture in the batter. For a tropical twist, mixing in shredded coconut along with the bananas could be a fun variation!

Storage Tips

To store any leftover cake, ensure it’s tightly covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This cake is delicious when warmed slightly in the microwave just before serving—perfect for enjoying it again!

Pairing Ideas

This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea, making it an exceptional afternoon treat. If you’re in the mood, a glass of cold milk complements the rich chocolate flavors perfectly.

FAQs

1. Can I use unsweetened cocoa powder instead of chocolate bars for the ganache?
No, using cocoa powder won’t give the same texture or flavor as melted chocolate.

2. How can I tell if my bananas are ripe enough?
Bananas with dark brown spots signal they are sweet and ready for baking.

3. Can I freeze this bundt cake?
Absolutely! Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

4. Is this cake suitable for special dietary needs?
This recipe contains gluten and dairy. For a gluten-free option, simply substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.

5. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Using a generous amount of nonstick spray along with a light dusting of flour after greasing will help in preventing sticking.

This Chocolate Marble Banana Bundt Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a delightful blend of flavors and memories. So, gather your loved ones and share a slice together, created with care and enjoyed with joy. Happy baking!