This Banana Bread Cake takes all the comforting flavors of classic banana bread and elevates it with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a brunch, or simply indulging in a sweet treat at home.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this Banana Bread Cake for its moist, tender crumb and the delightful combination of warm banana flavors with the creamy, sweet frosting. The cake is not overly sweet, allowing the natural sweetness of ripe bananas to shine through, while the cream cheese frosting adds a luscious tang that perfectly complements the cake’s richness. This recipe is also incredibly versatile; you can enjoy it plain, with nuts or chocolate chips added for extra texture, or even as a layered cake for a special celebration.
Introduction
Banana bread is a beloved classic, known for its comforting aroma and delightful taste. However, this Banana Bread Cake transforms the traditional loaf into an extraordinary dessert that is sure to impress your family and friends. With its soft, moist texture and the addition of cream cheese frosting, this cake is a showstopper that’s easy to make yet looks like it came straight from a bakery. Perfect for any occasion, this cake will become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this delicious treat!
Ingredients:
For the Banana Bread Cake:
- 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 bananas)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk (or milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice/vinegar as a substitute)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar (adjust to desired sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- A pinch of salt
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easier removal.
Step 2: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this mixture aside as you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes using a hand mixer or stand mixer.
Step 4: Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the flour mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 7: While the cake is cooling, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a medium bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until you reach your desired sweetness. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt, mixing until well combined.
Step 8: Once the cake is completely cool, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top. You can also slice the cake in half horizontally and layer the frosting in between for a more decadent dessert.
Serving Suggestions:
This Banana Bread Cake pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it an excellent choice for brunch or afternoon tea. You can also serve it with fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, for a delightful dessert experience. For an extra touch, consider garnishing with chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Tips:
- Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor. The more brown spots, the sweeter they will be!
- If you prefer a nuttier flavor, feel free to add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter.
- For an added twist, consider folding in ½ cup of chocolate chips for a chocolate-banana combination.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The cake will taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per slice, based on 12 servings):
Calories: 320
Protein: 3g
Sodium: 150mg
Conclusion
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Its moist texture and rich flavor make it a perfect dessert for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself, this cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth and leave your guests craving more. So gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to enjoy a slice of banana bliss!
Questions and Answers
1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas! Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
2. How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just frost it on the day you plan to serve it for the best texture.
4. What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to ½ cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
5. How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.