Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

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

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large mixing bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
5. Mix in vanilla extract, sour cream, and mashed bananas until well combined.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients, alternating with milk, and mix until just combined.
7. Fold in nuts if using.
8. Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
9. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow cake to cool completely before frosting.

Step 2: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
2. Gradually add powdered sugar and mix until fluffy.
3. Add vanilla extract and heavy cream, beating until creamy and spreadable.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

1. Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
2. Garnish with chopped nuts, banana slices, or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
3. 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!