Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

If you’re a fan of classic banana bread, wait until you try this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. A moist, flavorful cake made with ripe bananas, paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting — it’s the perfect dessert or afternoon treat. Whether you’re looking for a quick bake to impress guests or something to enjoy on a cozy day at home, this cake is both simple and satisfying. Let’s dive into how to make this delightful recipe.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Cake

This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is an irresistible twist on the classic banana bread. It’s soft, tender, and incredibly moist with just the right amount of banana flavor. The addition of the cream cheese frosting takes this treat to a whole new level, making it indulgent without being overly sweet. It’s a quick and easy recipe, perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a bake sale, or just a sweet snack at home. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas!

Ingredients for Banana Bread Cake

Here’s what you’ll need for the cake and frosting:

Banana Bread Cake Ingredients:

• Mashed ripe bananas: Provides moisture and that signature banana flavor.
• All-purpose flour: The base for the cake, giving it structure.
• Baking soda: Helps the cake rise, creating a light texture.
• Salt: Balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Unsalted butter: Adds richness and flavor.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake.
• Brown sugar: Contributes moisture and depth of flavor.
• Eggs: Binds the ingredients together and adds to the texture.
• Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Buttermilk: Keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tanginess.

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:

• Cream cheese: Forms the base of the frosting, giving it a rich, creamy texture.
• Unsalted butter: Combines with the cream cheese to create a smooth frosting.
• Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting and gives it the perfect texture.
• Vanilla extract: Adds a warm, aromatic note to the frosting.
• Heavy cream (optional): Makes the frosting smoother and easier to spread if needed.

Optional Garnishes:

• Chopped walnuts or pecans: Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Ground cinnamon: Sprinkles on top for extra flavor and a touch of spice.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure your cake doesn’t stick.

2. Make the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set it aside. In a large bowl, cream the softened butter with both granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract, followed by the mashed bananas.

3. Combine the Wet and Dry Ingredients

Alternate adding the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the banana mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a denser cake.

4. Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.

5. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake is cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating after each addition until the frosting is fluffy and light. Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired consistency.

6. Frost the Cake

Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Optionally, you can garnish with chopped walnuts, pecans, or a dusting of cinnamon for extra flavor and texture.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Cake

• Don’t overmix the batter: Mixing too much can result in a dense, tough cake. Stir just until everything is combined.
• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the more natural sweetness and flavor they’ll add to the cake.
• Let the cake cool completely: Frosting a warm cake can cause the cream cheese frosting to melt and slide off. Wait for the cake to cool before frosting.
• Adjust the sweetness: You can control the sweetness of the frosting by adding more or less powdered sugar, depending on your preference.

Variations and Pairing Ideas

• Add-ins: For extra texture, consider adding chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or even shredded coconut to the cake batter.
• Gluten-Free Version: If you need a gluten-free option, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend that can be used 1:1 in baking.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a warm, spicy undertone that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the banana and cream cheese frosting.

This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is delicious on its own but can also be paired with a cup of coffee or a tall glass of milk for a well-rounded treat. If you have leftovers (which is unlikely!), you can store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

Why You Should Make This Banana Bread Cake

Banana bread is a classic for a reason — it’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. By transforming it into a cake and adding a velvety cream cheese frosting, this recipe takes the classic to a whole new level. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply because you love banana bread, this cake will quickly become a family favorite.

Enjoy the perfect balance of moist, flavorful banana cake and smooth, creamy frosting. It’s a treat that’s as easy to make as it is to devour!

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate combination of comfort and indulgence. Whether you’re a banana bread enthusiast or new to the banana cake world, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your baking repertoire. With its moist texture, rich banana flavor, and smooth cream cheese frosting, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility — perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to casual coffee breaks. Enjoy baking and savor every bite of this delicious treat!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

More Relevant Recipes

• Gingerbread Loaf Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: If you love banana bread cake, this gingerbread loaf cake with cream cheese frosting offers a similar texture and sweetness. The spicy, aromatic ginger flavor pairs beautifully with the smooth, tangy frosting, making it an excellent option for the holidays or a cozy dessert anytime.
• Lemon Sheet Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: For those who enjoy a citrusy twist, this lemon sheet cake is light and moist, topped with a creamy frosting that perfectly balances the zesty lemon. It’s a refreshing variation of the banana bread cake and adds a burst of bright flavor.
• Cranberry Eggnog Bread: This cranberry eggnog bread combines the richness of eggnog with the tartness of cranberries, similar to the comforting banana bread. It’s a wonderful festive option, and the eggnog glaze makes it extra indulgent, much like the cream cheese frosting on the banana bread cake.

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