Indulge in the ultimate combination of moist banana bread and creamy frosting with this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe. Perfectly spiced with a hint of cinnamon, this cake captures the essence of homemade banana bread in a dessert that’s light, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious. Topped with a luscious layer of tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s the ideal treat for any occasion from cozy family brunches to special celebrations.
What sets this recipe apart is the use of overripe bananas, which lend natural sweetness and a rich depth of flavor to the cake. The addition of buttermilk ensures a tender crumb, while the smooth cream cheese frosting provides a delightful contrast to the cake’s subtle sweetness. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe comes together with simple ingredients and straightforward steps. Whether served with a hot cup of coffee or as the grand finale to a dinner party, this Banana Bread Cake is guaranteed to impress.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the mashed bananas, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve.
Helpful Tips for a Perfect Banana Cake
Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the better the flavor. When looking for the best bananas to use, choose those with plenty of brown spots. These overripe bananas are not only sweeter but also add a deeper, more intense banana flavor to your cake. Their natural sweetness will enhance the overall taste, making your cake extra delicious.
Avoid Overmixing: When mixing the wet and dry ingredients, it’s crucial not to overdo it. Mix just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense and heavy cake texture. The batter should be smooth and lump-free, but avoid excessive mixing as this can develop the gluten in the flour, which will affect the cake’s tenderness.
Room Temperature Ingredients: To achieve a smooth batter and creamy frosting, always use ingredients at room temperature. Make sure the butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature before you begin. This helps them incorporate better and blend smoothly into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture and a more consistent final product.
Test for Doneness: To check if your cake is done, insert a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cake is ready. If it comes out with wet batter, give it a few more minutes in the oven. It’s essential not to overbake, as this can dry out your cake and make it less moist.
Cooling is Key: Once your cake is baked, allow it to cool completely before frosting. If you try to frost a warm cake, the frosting may melt and slide off, resulting in a mess rather than a smooth and beautiful finish. Letting it cool also helps the cake set properly, giving it the right texture and structure.
Substitutions and Variations
Substitutions:
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make your own by mixing 1/2 cup of milk with 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to make this cake gluten-free. Check the baking soda and baking powder to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.
- Sugar Alternatives: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or a sugar substitute like erythritol for a lower-sugar option.
- Dairy-Free: Substitute butter with plant-based butter and use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting.
Variations:
- Add Mix-Ins: Stir in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips for added texture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: Enhance the flavor by adding 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg or a pinch of cloves along with the cinnamon.
- Banana Bread Muffins: Turn this recipe into muffins by pouring the batter into a lined muffin tin. Bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes.
- Tropical Twist: Add 1/4 cup of shredded coconut and a tablespoon of crushed pineapple to the batter for a tropical banana cake.
- Caramel Drizzle: Top the frosted cake with a drizzle of homemade caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
- Cinnamon Sugar Swirl: Create a cinnamon-sugar swirl by layering half the batter, sprinkling a mixture of sugar and cinnamon, then adding the rest of the batter on top.
- Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans for individual servings or gifting options. Adjust the baking time accordingly.
- Frosting Alternatives: Swap the cream cheese frosting for a whipped cream topping or a drizzle of maple glaze for a lighter option.
- Extra Bananas: Slice fresh bananas and layer them on top of the frosting for an extra banana boost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! Bake the cake and store it (unfrosted) at room temperature for up to 2 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
Q: How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
A: Grease the pan generously with butter or non-stick spray and dust it with flour, or line the pan with parchment paper for easy removal.
Q: Can I make this recipe without frosting?
A: Absolutely! The cake is delicious on its own or with a simple dusting of powdered sugar.
Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?
A: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Q: Can I use frozen bananas?
A: Yes, frozen bananas work well. Just thaw them completely and drain off any excess liquid before mashing.
Q: How can I make the frosting thicker?
A: If the frosting is too thin, add more powdered sugar, 1/4 cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
Q: What makes this cake so moist?
A: The combination of ripe bananas, buttermilk, and proper mixing technique ensures a moist texture. Avoid overbaking as this can dry out the cake.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, you can double the recipe to make a larger cake or two layers. Adjust the baking time slightly and ensure even distribution of batter.
Q: Can I add extra bananas?
A: Adding too many bananas can make the batter too wet and dense. Stick to the recipe’s recommended amount for the best texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are some ideas for serving it that will make every slice even more enjoyable:
- Brunch Delight: Include this cake in your brunch spread. Pair it with fresh fruit, yogurt, or savory dishes like quiches and frittatas for a balanced meal.
- Coffee Companion: Serve a slice with your morning coffee or tea for a sweet start to your day. The flavors complement a creamy latte or bold espresso perfectly.
- Dessert Highlight: Present this cake as the centerpiece of your dessert table at gatherings or celebrations. Its rich flavor and beautiful frosting make it an instant crowd-pleaser.
- Festive Touch: Garnish the cake with sliced bananas, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or crushed nuts for an extra special presentation during holidays or birthdays.
- With Ice Cream: Add a scoop of vanilla, caramel, or banana-flavored ice cream for a decadent dessert that everyone will love.
- Mini Dessert: Cut the cake into small, bite-sized pieces and serve on a platter for parties or potlucks. It’s a mess-free way for guests to enjoy this treat.
- Take It To-Go: Wrap individual slices in wax paper or airtight containers for a quick breakfast or snack option that’s easy to grab on the way out.
- Late-Night Treat: Warm up a slice for a few seconds in the microwave and enjoy with a glass of milk for a cozy nighttime indulgence.
- Pair with Spreads: Offer a side of caramel sauce, chocolate ganache, or even a dollop of whipped cream to give guests options to enhance their slice.
- Gift It: Wrap the cake beautifully and give it as a homemade gift to friends or family. It’s a thoughtful way to share something delicious.
More Relevant Recipes
Print
Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – Easy Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful twist on classic banana bread, baked into a moist, tender cake and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. Perfect for dessert, brunch, or anytime you’re craving a comforting treat.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Prepare the Cake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the mashed bananas, buttermilk, and vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely.
- Make the Frosting: In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the cake batter.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 34g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: Banana bread cake, cream cheese frosting, banana cake