This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful twist on classic banana bread, combining the comforting flavors of ripe bananas and a hint of vanilla in a fluffy, moist cake. The cake is then topped with a rich cream cheese frosting that adds a luxurious touch of sweetness. This recipe is ideal for brunch, dessert, or any occasion when you want a cake that’s both easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Let’s get into the details of making this perfect treat!

Full Recipe:

 

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 substitute with regular milk and 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar)

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
• 2-3 tablespoons heavy cream (optional for a smoother consistency)

Steps to Make Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Baking Dish

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside for later.

Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients

1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
2. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and the mashed bananas until combined.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

1. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Start with a portion of the dry ingredients, then add buttermilk, and continue alternating until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the cake dense.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.

Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, until you reach your desired sweetness and consistency.
3. Add the vanilla extract and beat in the heavy cream if you want a lighter, smoother frosting.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

1. Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting over the top.
2. For a decorative touch, garnish with banana slices or chopped nuts, if desired.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

1. Cut the cake into squares and serve immediately for a deliciously moist and flavorful dessert.

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per Serving, Based on 12 Servings)

• Calories: 410 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Carbohydrates: 61 g
• Fat: 17 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Sugar: 42 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: 220 mg
• Potassium: 200 mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use frozen bananas?

• Yes, frozen bananas work well for this recipe! Just thaw and mash them before using.

2. How do I store banana bread cake?

• This cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

3. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

• Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking blend for a gluten-free option.

4. Can I make this frosting without cream cheese?

• You could make a simple vanilla buttercream if you prefer, but the cream cheese adds a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.

5. Is there a substitute for buttermilk?

• If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for a few minutes before using.

Tips for Making the Best Banana Bread Cake

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with brown spots.
• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Stir until just combined to keep the cake soft and fluffy.
• Adjust the Frosting Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet frosting, start with 3 cups of powdered sugar and add more only if needed.
• Add Mix-Ins: Chopped nuts or chocolate chips make a delicious addition to this cake.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Once frosted, this cake should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and frost just before serving.

Conclusion

This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a treat that’s sure to impress. It combines all the classic flavors of banana bread in a cake form that’s light, fluffy, and irresistibly delicious. The cream cheese frosting adds an extra layer of decadence that’s hard to resist. This cake is a wonderful dessert option for brunch gatherings, family dinners, or as a special treat just for you. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavors, and let each bite remind you of the comforting taste of homemade banana bread! Thank you for trying out this recipe; don’t forget to share your baking journey and enjoy each sweet bite. Happy baking!