Irresistible Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Must-Try Recipe for Cake Lovers

Mastering banana bread cake

Banana bread cake is a delectable twist on the classic banana bread, offering a soft, moist texture and rich banana flavor that appeals to cake lovers everywhere. This recipe elevates traditional banana bread with the addition of soothing cream cheese frosting, creating a dessert that’s both comforting and indulgent. Whether for a family gathering, a weekend breakfast treat, or a simple afternoon snack, banana bread cake delivers satisfying flavor in every bite.

The moist crumb of the cake is achieved by balancing ripe mashed bananas with butter, sugar, and full-fat sour cream, giving it tenderness and a slight tang. This recipe remains accessible and straightforward to follow, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers who want a fail-proof, tasty bake. The cream cheese frosting adds the perfect creamy finish, enriching the banana notes without overpowering them.

Benefits and Advantages of banana bread cake

Banana bread cake stands out for its ease of preparation and the naturally sweet flavor delivered by ripe bananas, which provide natural sugars and moisture, reducing the need for excess added sugar. This not only enhances the taste but also contributes to a soft crumb without drying out.

The recipe is versatile, suiting a variety of occasions and preferences. Using full-fat sour cream adds richness and a delightful tenderness that distinguishes it from classic quick breads. The added cream cheese frosting introduces a luscious, creamy topping that complements the banana flavor brilliantly.

Other advantages include:

• Utilizing ripe bananas helps reduce food waste and adds natural sweetness and flavor.
• The option to add chopped walnuts or other nuts enhances texture and adds healthy fats and protein.
• The recipe can be made as a single 9×13 cake or adapted to layers or cupcakes, expanding its utility.
• It freezes well, making it convenient for meal prepping or storing leftovers.

For more insights on the benefits of bananas, check out this helpful resource.

Essential Ingredients for banana bread cake

• 1/2 cup softened salted butter
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup full-fat sour cream
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup mashed bananas (approximately 3-4 ripe bananas)
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
• 1/2 cup softened butter
• 8 oz full-fat cream cheese
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

Each ingredient plays a vital role: the butter and sour cream provide moisture and richness, the bananas add natural sweetness and banana flavor, while baking soda acts as a leavening agent to ensure a light crumb. The cream cheese frosting balances sweetness with tang, creating a smooth, spreadable topping.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your banana bread cake

Banana bread cake is highly adaptable to accommodate different dietary preferences or ingredient availability. Here are some suggestions for substitutions:

• Dairy-Free Options: Replace butter with coconut oil or dairy-free margarine, and substitute full-fat sour cream with coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt alternative. Use dairy-free cream cheese varieties and non-dairy milk or cream for frosting.
• Gluten-Free Variations: Use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour. Adjust the amount slightly as gluten-free flours can absorb more moisture.
• Sugar Alternatives: Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar, maple syrup, or a low glycemic sweetener, adjusting quantities as needed to maintain the right sweetness and moisture balance.
• Egg Substitutes: For vegan or egg-free options, replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) or commercial egg replacers.
• Add-ins: Incorporate nuts like walnuts or pecans for texture, or substitute with chocolate chips or dried fruits to vary flavor profiles.

This adaptability ensures everyone, regardless of dietary needs, can enjoy a moist and flavorful banana bread cake. To explore how to make the perfect cream cheese frosting component, visit this guide: how to make cream cheese frosting.

How to Prepare the Perfect banana bread cake: Step-by-Step Guide

1. First Step: Preheat your oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish by spraying it lightly with cooking spray.
2. Second Step: In a large bowl, cream together 1/2 cup softened salted butter and 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.
3. Third Step: Add 2 large eggs, 1 cup full-fat sour cream, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract to the creamed butter and sugar. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and creamy.
4. Fourth Step: Gradually add 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/4 teaspoon salt while mixing at low speed just until combined.
5. Fifth Step: Gently fold in 1 cup mashed bananas (about 3 to 4 ripe bananas) to the batter, ensuring an even distribution without overmixing.
6. Sixth Step: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking dish and smooth the surface with a spatula.
7. Seventh Step: Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs.
8. Eighth Step: Allow the cake to cool completely before applying the cream cheese frosting to prevent it from melting or sliding.
9. Ninth Step: To prepare the frosting, beat 1/2 cup softened butter and 8 oz cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla, 3 cups powdered sugar, and 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream. Adjust thickness by adding more sugar or cream as needed.
10. Tenth Step: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Optionally, garnish with banana slices and chopped walnuts before serving.

Mastering banana bread cake: Advanced Tips and Variations

Advanced Tips for Success

• Use ripe, spotty bananas to achieve the best natural sweetness and flavor; underripe bananas will result in a less flavorful cake.
• Do not overmix the batter after adding the flour; overmixing can make the cake dense or tough.
• Allow the cake to cool fully before frosting to avoid frosting melt or crumb contamination.
• Frosting can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated; bring it to room temperature and rewhip before spreading.
• For added texture, consider folding in finely chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter.

Variation Ideas

• Make a layered banana bread cake by baking the batter in two 9-inch round pans for 30-35 minutes each and stacking with frosting in between layers.
• Try substituting sour cream with Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor and extra protein.
• Enhance the flavor with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg added to the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic touch.
• For a dairy-free version, substitute butter with coconut oil and cream cheese with dairy-free cream cheese alternatives.

How to Store banana bread cake: Best Practices

Store banana bread cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 1-2 days to maintain its soft texture. If your kitchen is warm, refrigeration is recommended to keep the cream cheese frosting fresh. Cover the cake loosely with plastic wrap or store in a container with a lid to prevent drying out.

For longer storage, banana bread cake can be frozen—either frosted or unfrosted—wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before enjoying.

When reheating, warmed slices briefly in the microwave (about 10-20 seconds) can soften any chilled cake without melting the frosting.

Nutritional Value of banana bread cake

This banana bread cake is a delightful treat offering a balance of carbohydrates and fats, combined with moderate protein from eggs and dairy. Bananas provide natural sweetness and some fiber, making it a satisfying dessert option. Learn more about the benefits of bananas to understand their nutritional value.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About banana bread cake

Irresistible Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Must-Try Recipe for Cake Lovers

---

• Total Time: 3 hours
• Yield: 18 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

🍌 Experience the delightful combination of moist banana cake paired with rich cream cheese frosting – a treat that’s hard to resist.
🎂 Perfect for any occasion, this cake brings the comforting flavors of banana bread in a soft, indulgent slice.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1/2 cup softened salted butter
1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup full-fat sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup mashed bananas (approximately 3–4 ripe bananas)
1/2 cup softened butter
8 oz full-fat cream cheese
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
3 cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

---

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and prepare a 9×13 baking dish with cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined and creamy.
3. Add the flour, baking soda, and salt and mix on low speed until just combined.
4. Gently fold in the mashed bananas. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading evenly.
5. Bake for 25-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
6. For the frosting, beat the butter and cream cheese together until smooth. Add the vanilla, powdered sugar, and heavy cream. Increase speed to achieve a thick consistency for spreading, adjusting with more powdered sugar or milk if needed.
7. Once cooled, frost the cake and optionally garnish with banana slices and chopped walnuts.

Notes

🍌 Use ripe, spotty bananas for the best sweetness and flavor.
🥜 Add finely chopped walnuts for extra texture if desired.
🎂 Make sure the cake is fully cool before frosting to prevent crumbs from mixing in.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooling and Chilling Time: 2 hours
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 piece
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 39 grams
• Sodium: 294 mg
• Fat: 15 grams
• Saturated Fat: 9 grams
• Unsaturated Fat: 5 grams
• Trans Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 52 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Protein: 5 grams
• Cholesterol: 57 mg