Introduction
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect balance between classic banana bread and a moist, tender cake. It’s packed with ripe bananas, warm spices, and a luscious cream cheese frosting that makes every bite irresistible. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, this cake is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk
Garnish (Optional):
- Chopped nuts
- Banana slices
- Cinnamon sprinkle
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Banana Bread Cake
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and mashed bananas until well combined.
- Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined.
- Fold in nuts if using.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow cake to cool completely before frosting.
Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
- Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating until creamy and spreadable.
Step 3: Assemble the Cake
- Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
- Garnish with chopped nuts, banana slices, or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
- Slice and serve!
Tips for Success
- Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moisture.
- Don’t overmix the batter to keep the cake light and fluffy.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days; bring to room temperature before serving.
Variations
- Chocolate Chip Banana Cake: Fold in 1/2 cup chocolate chips for extra indulgence.
- Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: Substitute vanilla extract with maple syrup for a richer flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour.
Conclusion
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful treat that brings comfort and sweetness to any table. Whether for a family gathering or a simple treat-yourself moment, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!