Name: Delicious Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake for a Cozy Dessert
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 4 pieces Pisang Awak Bananas (Use ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.); 1 cup Light Brown Sugar (Adds caramel-like sweetness.); 1 cup Tapioca Starch (Flour) (Essential for a chewy texture.); 1 cup Rice Flour (Use fine rice flour.); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (Enhances overall flavor.); 1/2 teaspoon Cinnamon Powder (Optional but recommended for flavor depth.); 1 cup Water (Adjust based on flour absorbency.); 1 can Canned Coconut Milk (For a rich sauce.); 1 tablespoon Cornstarch (Thicken the coconut sauce.); 2 tablespoons Toasted Sesame Seeds (Adds nutty taste and visual appeal.)

The aroma of ripe bananas fills the air as I prepare to unveil a delightful treat from my kitchen: the Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake, or Banh Chuoi Hap. This gluten-free dessert is a revelation, marrying the natural sweetness of bananas with the irresistible chewiness that only steaming can provide. What sets this cake apart is its rich coconut sauce, adding a creamy touch that elevates each bite. As a bonus, it’s completely vegan and dairy-free, making it a guilt-free indulgence for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned home-chef or someone looking to escape the fast food rut, this cake is a simple yet impressive dessert that will have friends and family asking for seconds. Are you ready to discover a new favorite in your dessert repertoire?

Why will you adore this cake?

Unforgettable texture: The Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake offers a unique chewiness that delights the palate, unlike any baked dessert.

Naturally sweet: With the rich flavor of ripe pisang awak bananas, every bite is packed with wholesome sweetness, making it a perfect treat for any occasion.

Guilt-free indulgence: Being both vegan and gluten-free, this cake allows everyone to enjoy dessert without compromising dietary preferences.

Quick and easy: Made with simple ingredients, this cake requires minimal effort and time, freeing you to whip it up whenever the craving strikes.

Crowd-pleaser: Served warm with luscious coconut sauce, it’s a hit at family gatherings and special occasions alike, sure to leave your guests asking for the recipe, similar to my Berry Banana Cottage creation!

Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake Ingredients

• Get ready to gather these essential ingredients for your Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake!

For the Cake

Pisang Awak Bananas – Use ripe bananas for the best sweetness and flavor; avoid overripe ones to prevent excess moisture.
Light Brown Sugar – This adds a delicious caramel-like sweetness; regular granulated sugar can substitute but may change the color.
Tapioca Starch (Flour) – Essential for that unique chewy texture; don’t replace it with regular flour to keep it gluten-free.
Rice Flour – Provides structure to the cake; using fine rice flour ensures a smoother result.
Salt – A little salt enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.
Cinnamon Powder – Adds warm aromatic notes; optional but recommended for extra depth of flavor.
Water – Hydrates the batter; adjust the amount based on the absorbency of your flour.

For the Coconut Sauce

Canned Coconut Milk – Makes the delightful rich sauce; you can use high-quality homemade coconut milk too.
Cornstarch – Thicken the coconut sauce with this; pre-mix it with water to prevent lumps.

For Garnishing

Toasted Sesame Seeds – Use for garnish; they add a lovely nutty taste and visual appeal to your beautiful cake.

Get ready to steam up some sweetness with this wonderful Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake

Step 1: Prepare Bananas
Begin by peeling and slicing ripe pisang awak bananas into thick rounds. In a mixing bowl, gently toss the banana slices with light brown sugar and let them marinate for 10 to 20 minutes. This step is key for ensuring your Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake gets that delightful sweetness and flavor infusion.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
While the bananas are marinating, grab a separate bowl to combine the dry ingredients. Whisk together tapioca starch, rice flour, salt, and optional cinnamon powder until well mixed. This blend will create the foundation for the cake’s chewy texture. Ensure there are no lumps, so your cake turns out perfectly smooth.

Step 3: Create Batter
Next, gradually add a measured amount of water to your dry ingredients, stirring continuously until the batter becomes smooth and without lumps. The right consistency is crucial; it should be thick yet pourable. This batter will form the base of your Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake, enhancing its rich, chewy texture.

Step 4: Combine
Once your batter is smooth, gently fold in the marinated banana slices, ensuring they’re evenly distributed. Be sure to reserve a few banana slices for decorating the top of the cake. This step will infuse the cake with delicious banana flavor while creating a beautiful presentation.

Step 5: Steaming Setup
Prepare your steaming setup by greasing a loaf pan with a little oil to prevent sticking. Carefully pour the banana batter into the pan and layer the reserved banana slices on top for a lovely finish. Steam the batter over medium heat for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean, indicating that your Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake is set.

Step 6: Make Coconut Sauce
While the cake is steaming, heat a can of coconut milk in a small saucepan over medium-low heat. Add a pinch of salt and a bit of light brown sugar, stirring until dissolved. In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with a small amount of water, then slowly add this slurry to the heated coconut milk while continuously stirring until thickened. This luscious sauce will elevate your dessert’s flavor.

Step 7: Serve
Once the cake is ready, carefully remove it from the steamer and let it cool slightly before slicing. Serve your warm Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake with the rich coconut sauce drizzled generously on top. Finish with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for a nutty flavor and visual appeal, making each serving irresistible!

Variations for Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake

Feel free to get creative with this delightful dessert and tailor it to your taste buds!

Different Banana Varieties: Substitute pisang awak bananas with firmer options like Cavendish for a slightly different texture. Just remember, the flavor profile will change a bit—think of this as a fun experiment!
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the batter for a warm, spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the bananas beautifully. Your family and friends will be pleasantly surprised by this aromatic twist!
Coconut Lovers: Mix in shredded coconut into the batter for an extra layer of texture and that delightful tropical flavor. This can elevate your cake to a new level of indulgence!
Chocolate Bliss: Sprinkle in some dairy-free chocolate chips for a luscious treat. The melting chocolate will create delightful pockets of gooey goodness throughout your cake!
Nutty Delight: Toss in some chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for added crunch and flavor. The nutty taste pairs perfectly with the soft, sweet banana cake.
Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Experiment with different gluten-free flours like almond flour to create a unique, nutty version of the cake. Each variation can bring a new depth of flavor to this traditional dessert.
Boozy Flavor: For a grown-up twist, consider adding a splash of rum or vanilla extract to amp up the warm notes within the coconut sauce. Just make sure to adjust the sweetness if you do!
Fruit Fusion: Top your cake with fresh fruits like mango or blueberries for a refreshing pop of color and flavor. This beautiful presentation makes it perfect for special occasions!

All these variations can turn your Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake into an exciting new dish every time! Don’t forget to explore some creative pairings with it as you enjoy this delightful dessert, like my Nutty Vanilla Cake or for a refreshing alternative, the Heavenly No-Bake Cake!

How to Store and Freeze Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake

Fridge: Keep your Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This will help preserve its soft texture and flavor.

Freezer: If you wish to store it for longer, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy.

Coconut Sauce Storage: Store any leftover coconut sauce in a separate airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy your cake warm, simply steam it lightly for about 10 minutes or microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds, keeping the luscious texture intact.

What to Serve with Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake

The perfect accompaniment can elevate your Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake to a whole new level of deliciousness.

Coconut Sticky Rice: This sweet dish amplifies the coconut flavor, creating a delightful harmony with the cake’s coconut sauce.
Fresh Tropical Fruit Salad: A mix of juicy fruits like mango, pineapple, and kiwi adds a refreshing contrast, brightening each bite of cake.
Vietnamese Iced Coffee: The bold flavors of coffee serve as a delightful pick-me-up against the sweetness of the dessert, making it an ideal pairing.
Lightly Sweetened Green Tea: The subtle bitterness of green tea balances the cake’s sweetness, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
Crispy Spring Rolls: Thoughtfully crafted with vegetables and perhaps tofu, these crunchy delights provide a satisfying texture contrast to the soft, chewy cake.
Homemade Coconut Sorbet: This creamy, chilled treat mirrors the cake’s flavors while adding a cooling sensation perfect for winding down your meal.
Sesame Cookies: Their nutty, crunchy texture works beautifully alongside the soft cake, offering a delightful bite that may just steal the show.

Serving these delightful options alongside your Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake will create an unforgettable feast for the senses!

Make Ahead Options

These Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cakes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their meal planning! You can prepare the banana batter and marinate the pisang awak bananas up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the dry ingredients, add water to create the batter, and fold in the marinated bananas before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the quality, ensure that the batter is tightly wrapped to prevent it from drying out. When you’re ready to enjoy, just steam the batter for 25-30 minutes until set and serve warm with the coconut sauce. This preparation method allows you to savor deliciousness with minimal effort on the day of serving!

Helpful Tricks for Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake

Ingredient Precision: Use a kitchen scale for accurate measurements. Consistency is key to achieving the desired chewy texture in your Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake.
Banana Choice Matters: Stick with ripe pisang awak bananas; overripe bananas release too much moisture and can make your cake soggy.
Batter Consistency: Ensure your batter is thick yet pourable. Adjust the water based on the absorbency of your flour to prevent a dry result.
Steaming Setup: Cover the lid of your steamer with a clean towel to minimize water condensation dripping onto the cake, which can affect its texture.
Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool slightly after steaming before slicing to make serving easier and maintain its shape.

Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of bananas should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake, I recommend using ripe pisang awak bananas. They are naturally sweet and give the cake its delightful flavor and texture. Avoid overripe bananas, as they can release too much moisture during steaming, affecting the cake’s consistency.

How should I store the cake, and how long does it last?
I suggest storing your Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. This method helps maintain its soft, chewy texture and sweetness. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing it to avoid condensation inside the container.

Can I freeze Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake? How do I do it?
Yes, you can definitely freeze it! Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to protect it from freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and warm it up by steaming lightly for about 10 minutes.

What common issues might I run into when making this cake?
Very! One common issue is using too much water, making the batter too runny. Ensure your batter is thick yet pourable; adjust water based on your flour’s absorbency. Additionally, keep your steam lid covered with a towel to prevent water condensation from ruining the cake’s texture. If the cake isn’t set after the recommended steaming time, continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes and test again.

Is this cake safe for those with allergies?
Absolutely! The Vietnamese Steamed Banana Cake is gluten-free and vegan, making it safe for many dietary restrictions. However, always double-check the ingredients, especially the tapioca starch and rice flour, for any potential cross-contamination with gluten or allergens if you’re serving someone with severe allergies. It’s a worry-free treat in most cases, but consult with anyone sensitive to coconut products since the sauce includes canned coconut milk.

How can I elevate the flavor of my cake?
If you’re looking to add a bit of extra depth, consider infusing the batter with spices like nutmeg or adding shredded coconut for a fun texture twist. Toasted sesame seeds on top not only enhance visual appeal but add a delightful nutty taste too! The more variations, the merrier, so don’t be afraid to experiment!