If you’re looking for a delightful treat that feels like a warm hug in dessert form, this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is your perfect match. Moist, tender banana cake layers topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting create an irresistible combination that never fails to bring smiles. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just a sweet pick-me-up, this recipe combines simple ingredients with a classic technique to deliver comfort and joy in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role, and you don’t need anything complicated to bring this cake to life. From the ripe bananas that provide natural sweetness and moisture to the cream cheese frosting that adds that creamy finish, each component elevates the flavor and texture in its own special way.
- 3 ripe bananas: The star ingredient, perfectly mashed to infuse the batter with natural sweetness and moisture.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure to the cake, ensuring it’s light yet sturdy enough to hold the frosting.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully, keeping it soft and fluffy.
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to give the perfect crumb and texture.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and contributes to the tender crumb.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering the banana flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together while adding moisture and structure.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Brings warmth and depth to the overall flavor.
- 1/2 cup buttermilk: Adds a subtle tang and helps keep the cake wonderfully moist.
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened: Key for the luscious frosting that complements the banana with its tangy richness.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting): Creates a creamy base for the frosting.
- 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it that smooth texture.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting): Adds a fragrant note to the frosting that pairs perfectly with the cake.
How to Make Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure your cake slides out effortlessly once baked. This sets the stage for a hassle-free baking process and a perfect cake shape.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients form the backbone of the cake, providing lift and balance to your banana cake batter.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into the mixture, giving your cake a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract for that aromatic touch.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry
Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to your wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry. This gradual mix helps maintain the cake’s structure without overworking the batter. Gently fold in your mashed ripe bananas, which are crucial for the moist, flavorful banana cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into your greased pan. Place in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. It’s the moment when all your ingredients turn into that irresistible Banana Cake.
Step 6: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While waiting for the cake to cool, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until the frosting is light and spreadable. This frosting is what takes your banana cake from delicious to divine.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Don’t be shy – this frosting is the luscious partner your banana cake deserves, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and tanginess.
How to Serve Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
Adding a few simple garnishes can elevate your banana cake presentation and flavor. Consider sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top for crunch. Fresh banana slices or a light dusting of cinnamon on the frosting can add an inviting aroma and a beautiful finish.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs fantastically with a cup of hot coffee or a creamy latte, making it perfect for breakfast or afternoon treats. You could also serve it alongside fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream to add extra brightness and color to the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your banana cake sliced into neat squares or fun shapes using cookie cutters. For celebrations, decorate with edible flowers or drizzle with melted chocolate for a visually stunning and irresistible dessert display. Presentation can turn a classic Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe into an unforgettable centerpiece.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover banana cake stays moist and delicious when stored properly. Keep it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This helps preserve the frosting and keep the cake fresh, so every bite tastes just like the first.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe later, you can freeze it. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer bag. Frozen, it lasts up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for the best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy the cake warm, gently reheat slices in the microwave for about 15 to 20 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the frosting intact and the cake tender. Warm cake with cream cheese frosting is a delightful treat that melts in your mouth.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work wonderfully as long as they’re fully thawed and mashed well beforehand. They often add even more moisture and sweetness to the cake.
How ripe should the bananas be for best results?
Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots or even mostly brown skin. The riper, the sweeter and more flavorful they will be, which is perfect for this recipe.
Can I substitute the buttermilk in this recipe?
Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing 1/2 cup milk with 1/2 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, by swapping all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend designed for baking, you can enjoy a gluten-free version. Just ensure it includes xanthan gum or other binding agents for structure.
What’s the best way to get smooth cream cheese frosting without lumps?
Make sure both your cream cheese and butter are softened to room temperature before beating. Beat them together until completely smooth before slowly adding powdered sugar to avoid lumps.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is truly a crowd-pleaser that feels both nostalgic and special. Baking it is straightforward, the flavors are timeless, and sharing it is guaranteed to brighten someone’s day. I can’t wait for you to try it and see just how magical a simple combination of ripe bananas and cream cheese frosting can be.
Print
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This moist and flavorful Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat featuring ripe bananas folded into a tender, buttery cake base, topped with a rich and tangy cream cheese frosting. Perfect for dessert or special occasions, this cake balances sweetness with a creamy finish for a crowd-pleasing dessert.
Ingredients
Cake
- 3 ripe bananas
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt; set this mixture aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In another large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, creating a smooth texture.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated, then add the vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with buttermilk. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing which can toughen the cake batter.
- Fold in Bananas: Gently fold in the mashed ripe bananas, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
- Bake the Cake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Prepare Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
- Frost the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan, then generously spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top before serving.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are very ripe for maximum flavor and natural sweetness.
- Do not overmix the batter as this can make the cake dense.
- For easier frosting, chill the cream cheese and butter before mixing.
- This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with plant-based alternatives and use cream cheese made from non-dairy sources.
