If you adore the cozy warmth of classic banana bread but crave something a little dressier for dessert or a special morning treat, this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is just what you need. It takes the beloved flavors of ripe bananas and tender crumb and elevates them into a soft, moist cake generously topped with silky, tangy cream cheese frosting. Each bite feels like comfort wrapped in celebration, making it perfect for everything from casual family breakfasts to impressive potluck contributions. You’re going to fall head over heels for how simple ingredients turn into this decadent treat!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe are straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of flavor and texture. From ripe bananas that provide natural sweetness and moisture, to cream cheese that adds a luscious tang in the frosting, every item is carefully chosen to make this cake truly irresistible.
- Ripe bananas: Mash well for natural sweetness and moist texture.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the structure for a tender crumb.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Work together to help the cake rise beautifully.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors perfectly.
- Unsalted butter: Adds richness and a velvety crumb.
- Sugar: Sweetens and helps create a light, fluffy batter.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and give body to the cake.
- Vanilla extract: Introduces warm, aromatic depth.
- Sour cream: Makes the cake tender and adds subtle tang.
- Cream cheese (for frosting): Softened to blend perfectly into a creamy topping.
- Butter (for frosting): Adds smoothness and richness to the frosting.
- Powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting beautifully.
How to Make Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to ensure your cake doesn’t stick and bakes with a perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Mixing these first helps distribute the leavening agents evenly, which means your cake will rise uniformly.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter alongside the sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale. This step is crucial as it traps air, giving your cake a tender, airy texture.
Step 4: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Add the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully mixed in before adding the next. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, which bring moistness and flavor character to your cake.
Step 5: Blend Dry and Wet Components
Alternate adding the dry ingredient mix and the sour cream to the wet ingredients, starting and ending with the dry. Mix just until combined to avoid overworking the batter, which keeps your cake super tender.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
Pour your batter into the prepared dish and slide it into the oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, signaling a perfectly baked cake.
Step 7: Whip Up the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, beat together the cream cheese, softened butter, and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and continue beating until the frosting is fluffy and luscious—just the right balance of sweet and tangy.
Step 8: Frost and Enjoy
Once your cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. This final touch transforms your banana bread into a show-stopping dessert everyone will rave about.
How to Serve Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
To add an eye-catching finish, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or toasted pecans on top of the frosting. It adds delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the soft cake. For an elegant touch, a few banana slices or a dusting of cinnamon can also make your presentation pop.
Side Dishes
Serve this banana bread cake alongside a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to complement the tang of the frosting. A fresh berry compote or a hot cup of coffee or tea makes the experience even more comforting and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into individual squares or adorable mini servings for a party platter. You could even layer slices with frosting in between to create a banana bread layer cake. Garnishing plates with fresh mint or edible flowers lends a charming, gourmet vibe for when you’re hosting guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cake stays moist and delicious when wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The cream cheese frosting may soften the cake’s surface but also keeps it irresistibly fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze the unfrosted banana bread cake by wrapping it well in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then placing it in a freezer-safe bag for up to two months. After thawing, frost the cake fresh to enjoy that creamy tangy topping in all its glory.
Reheating
If you want to warm a slice, pop it in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds or gently warm it in a preheated oven at 300°F for about 10 minutes. Enjoy it slightly warm for a soft texture that pairs wonderfully with the cool frosting.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas provide the best flavor and moisture, making your cake extra tender and naturally sweet.
Is sour cream essential for the cake?
Yes, sour cream adds subtle tanginess and moisture that helps make the crumb soft and rich. You can substitute with Greek yogurt if needed, but avoid leaving it out entirely.
How long does the cake stay fresh in the fridge?
When stored properly in an airtight container, the frosted cake will last about 5 days in the refrigerator without losing its flavor or texture.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can swap the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend, but make sure it contains xanthan gum or another binder for the best texture. You might notice a slight difference, but it will still be delicious.
How do I get the cream cheese frosting super smooth?
Ensure both the cream cheese and butter are fully softened before beating, then add powdered sugar gradually while mixing on medium speed to achieve a creamy, fluffy frosting perfect for spreading.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe quickly becomes a cherished favorite with its wonderful blend of familiar flavors and indulgent frosting. It’s a recipe that feels like a warm hug from the inside and is so easy to make that you’ll reach for it time and time again. Whether you’re sharing with loved ones or savoring some well-deserved self-care, this cake is sure to brighten any occasion. Go ahead, try it today—you’ll be so glad you did!
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Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist and flavorful dessert combining ripe bananas and a tender crumb, topped with a rich and creamy frosting. Perfect for a comforting treat or special occasion, it blends the classic banana bread taste with a luscious cake texture and a smooth cream cheese finish.
Ingredients
Cake Ingredients
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9-inch baking dish to prepare it for the batter.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt, ensuring all leavening agents and salt are evenly distributed.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture is light, fluffy, and well combined, which helps aerate the batter.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing thoroughly after each addition for even incorporation. Then stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract for flavor and moisture.
- Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with the sour cream. Mix gently until just combined to maintain tenderness in the cake.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully baked.
- Make Frosting: While the cake cools, beat together the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, continuing to beat until the frosting is fluffy and spreadable.
- Frost and Serve: Once the cake has completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice and serve for a deliciously moist banana bread cake experience.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
- Ensure all butter and cream cheese are softened to room temperature for smooth mixing.
- Do not overmix the batter once flour is added to keep the cake tender.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
