Indulge in the delightful fusion of classic banana bread and luscious cream cheese frosting with this Banana Bread Cake. This moist and tender cake brings together the comforting flavors of ripe bananas and warm spices, topped with a rich, creamy frosting that elevates it to a delectable treat perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Tender Texture: The ripe bananas ensure a soft and moist crumb, making each bite melt in your mouth.
- Simple Ingredients: Utilizing pantry staples, this recipe is both accessible and straightforward to prepare.
- Versatile Occasion Treat: Whether for a family gathering, afternoon snack, or festive dessert, this cake fits seamlessly into any setting.
- Creamy Frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that perfectly complements the banana-flavored cake.
Ingredients
- 3 medium-sized ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas until well combined.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined; avoid overmixing to maintain a tender crumb.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat Ingredients: In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
- Frost Cake: Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Servings and Timing
- Yield: Approximately 12-16 servings
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Variations
- Nutty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and flavor.
- Spiced Twist: Incorporate ¼ teaspoon of nutmeg or allspice for a warm, spiced undertone.
- Chocolate Chip: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweeter, indulgent version.
Storage/Reheating
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep refrigerated for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for optimal taste.
- Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cake tightly wrapped for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost before serving.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well. Ensure they are fully thawed and excess liquid is drained before mashing.
Is it necessary to use sour cream?
Sour cream adds moisture and richness. You can substitute with plain Greek yogurt if preferred.
How can I tell if the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.
What if I don’t have a 9×13-inch pan?
You can use two 9-inch round pans; adjust baking time to 20-25 minutes and check for doneness.
Can I reduce the sugar content?
Reducing sugar may affect texture and moisture. It’s recommended to follow the recipe for best results.
How should I store leftover frosting?
Refrigerate leftover frosting in an airtight container for up to a week.
Can I add fruits like blueberries?
Yes, gently fold in up to 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries into the batter.
What’s the best way to mash bananas
Print
Banana Bread Cake
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25-30 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 12–16 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Elevate your dessert game with this moist and tender Banana Bread Cake topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for any occasion, this easy-to-make cake combines the comforting flavors of ripe bananas and warm spices into a delectable treat everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 medium ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper.
- Prepare Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: Cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time. Add vanilla and mashed bananas, mixing until smooth.
- Combine Mixtures: Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with sour cream. Mix until just combined; do not overmix.
- Bake: Spread batter evenly in the pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.
- Prepare Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually mix in powdered sugar. Add vanilla and blend until creamy.
- Frost Cake: Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
Notes
- Variations: Add ½ cup walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Storage: Store frosted cake in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months.
- Tips: For best results, use ripe bananas with brown spots and room-temperature ingredients.
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