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If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that takes the beloved flavors of banana bread and transforms them into a luscious, tender cake topped with luscious frosting, then this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your next must-try. It’s moist, rich, and perfectly spiced—a treat that feels both familiar and extra special. From the ripe bananas to the creamy, tangy frosting, every bite tells a story of comfort and celebration that’s impossible to resist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, whether it’s the bananas adding natural sweetness and moisture, the flour lending structure, or the cinnamon bringing warmth and depth to the flavor. Together, they create a harmony of tastes and textures that make this cake an instant favorite.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: Use bananas that are speckled with brown spots for the sweetest, most intense flavor.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect base for a tender yet sturdy cake crumb.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise beautifully and gives it a light texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy spice that complements the banana perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Moisturizes the batter for richness and depth.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering the bananas’ natural flavor.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses hint and extra moisture.
- 2 large eggs: Bind everything together and add structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a fragrant sweetness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Keeps the cake irresistibly moist and tender.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: For the luscious, tangy frosting that’s the star of the show.
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Adds creaminess and balances the tang of the cream cheese.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and helps achieve that silky smooth texture.
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds a hint of warmth and rounds out the frosting’s flavor.
- Pinch of salt (for frosting): Enhances the overall taste and cuts through the sweetness beautifully.
How to Make Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper so your cake will come out cleanly and have an even baking surface.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures the leavening and seasoning are evenly distributed, which is key for a consistent cake texture.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. This process creates air pockets that make the cake wonderfully tender.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Bananas
One at a time, add the eggs to the butter mixture, mixing well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas, which infuse natural sweetness and moisture into the batter.
Step 5: Combine Sour Cream and Dry Ingredients
Mix in the sour cream until the batter is smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing gently just until no streaks of flour remain—overmixing can lead to a dense cake, so handle with care.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely before applying the frosting for the best results.
Step 7: Make and Spread the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, then beat until the frosting becomes fluffy and luscious. Spread it evenly over the cooled banana bread cake before slicing and serving.
How to Serve Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
For a delightful finishing touch, consider sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top, which add a pleasant crunch and earthy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the creamy frosting. A light dusting of cinnamon or a few banana slices arranged artfully can also elevate the visual appeal while hinting at the flavors inside.
Side Dishes
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe shines on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or tea, especially a chai latte or a robust espresso. For a brunch spread, serve it alongside fresh fruit or a simple yogurt parfait to balance the richness with brightness and freshness.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress your guests or add some flair, try cutting the cake into bite-sized squares and serving them on a platter with small decorative toothpicks. You can also layer the cake with extra frosting and banana slices in a trifle dish for a layered dessert experience that’s as stunning as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe, store any leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator. This keeps the frosting fresh and prevents the cake from drying out. Properly stored, it will stay delicious for up to four days—perfect for quick breakfasts or afternoon treats.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, slice the cake first and freeze individual portions in airtight containers or wrapped in plastic wrap followed by foil. The cream cheese frosting freezes well, too, and your cake can last up to two months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bring it to room temperature. For an extra cozy touch, warm a slice gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds—it tastes just like freshly baked and frosted, every time.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bananas for this recipe?
Ripe bananas with brown spots are best because they’re sweeter and softer, which makes the cake moist and flavorful. Using underripe bananas may result in a less sweet and dense cake.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup. Just be sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder to maintain the cake’s texture.
Can I add nuts or other mix-ins to the batter?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans are classic additions that provide a lovely crunch and flavor contrast. You could also mix in chocolate chips or dried fruit for a fun twist.
How long does the cream cheese frosting stay fresh?
Your cream cheese frosting is best enjoyed within 4 days when kept refrigerated. Since it contains dairy, it’s important to store it properly to maintain taste and safety.
Can this recipe be made into cupcakes instead of a cake?
Definitely! Just adjust the baking time to about 20-25 minutes and keep an eye on them. Cupcakes make for great individual servings and are easier to serve at parties or gatherings.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe—it’s the perfect union of comfort and celebration rolled into one irresistible dessert. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just because you deserve a treat, this cake brings warmth, sweetness, and a touch of magic to any occasion. I hope you enjoy making and savoring it as much as I do!
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Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This moist and flavorful Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful twist on classic banana bread, perfect for dessert or a sweet snack. Made with ripe bananas, spices, and a creamy, tangy frosting, it offers a rich and satisfying treat that’s easy to bake and sure to please.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon until evenly combined.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time to the butter and sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Then stir in the vanilla extract and the mashed ripe bananas, mixing until combined.
- Incorporate Sour Cream: Mix in the sour cream until just combined, which helps keep the cake moist and tender.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, folding gently and mixing just until no streaks of flour remain to avoid overmixing and ensuring a tender crumb.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool Completely: Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before applying the frosting, to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and well combined.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula or knife, covering the entire surface.
- Serve: Slice the cake into 12 servings and enjoy this delicious banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting.
Notes
- For extra flavor and texture, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter before baking.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
