### Columbian Fresh Banana Cake with Sea Foam Frosting
#### Introduction
This recipe combines the richness of bananas with a unique Colombian twist, creating a deliciously moist banana cake that's perfect for any special occasion or as a comforting dessert at home. The addition of sea foam frosting gives this cake an extra layer of flavor and texture, making it stand out.
#### Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup white sugar
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup milk (optional for a richer texture)
- For the frosting:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- A dash of salt
#### Steps to Make the Cake
1. **Preheat and Prepare**
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a 9-inch cake pan with butter and dust lightly with flour.
2. **Mix Dry Ingredients**
- In a medium bowl, mix together flour, baking soda, salt, and baking powder until well combined. Set aside.
3. **Cream Butter and Sugar**
- Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter and sugar on high speed for about 2-3 minutes, or until light and fluffy.
4. **Add Eggs and Vanilla**
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix well after each addition.
5. **Blend in Mashed Bananas**
- Gradually mix in the mashed bananas. If desired, you can also blend in some milk for extra moisture.
6. **Fold in Dry Ingredients and Milk (Optional)**
- Add half of the dry ingredients to the mixture, followed by a third of the milk if using. Repeat this process with the remaining dry ingredients and milk until everything is combined well but still slightly lumpy. This step ensures that the cake has a tender texture.
7. **Bake the Cake**
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth out the top.
- Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. **Cool and Frost the Cake**
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
- To make the sea foam frosting, beat together softened butter, powdered sugar, heavy cream, and a dash of salt. Start with 1/4 cup of heavy cream and add more if needed until you reach a light, creamy consistency.
9. **Apply Frosting**
- Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top and sides of the cake using an offset spatula or piping bag for decorative touches.
#### Tips and Tricks
- Ensure your bananas are very ripe; their natural sweetness will complement the other flavors.
- For a richer taste, consider adding a pinch of ground cinnamon to the dry ingredients.
- If you prefer a lighter texture, substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cake flour.
#### Conclusion
Enjoy this Columbian Fresh Banana Cake with Sea Foam Frosting for its rich and comforting flavor. It’s perfect as a delightful dessert or snack, and the unique sea foam frosting will surely impress your guests!