Banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting is the perfect combination of moist, flavorful cake and rich, creamy frosting. It takes the classic banana bread and transforms it into a soft, fluffy dessert that feels special yet is incredibly easy to make. The natural sweetness from ripe bananas pairs beautifully with the tangy cream cheese frosting, creating a balanced flavor profile.
This cake is ideal for casual gatherings, potlucks, or a simple treat at home. It requires basic ingredients, minimal prep time, and can be made without any advanced baking skills. If you enjoy banana bread but want something a little more indulgent, this recipe is an excellent choice.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large mixing bowls
- Hand or stand mixer
- 9×13-inch baking pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk or spatula
- Cooling rack
Preparation Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness. Bananas with brown spots are ideal.
- To make a buttermilk substitute, combine ½ cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar, then let it sit for five minutes before using.
- For added texture and flavor, consider mixing in chopped walnuts or chocolate chips.
- Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
Ingredients
For the 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 milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice/vinegar as a substitute)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar (adjust to taste)
Step-by-Step Directions
For the Banana Bread Cake:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and set it aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the mashed bananas, flour, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
- In a separate large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar using a hand or stand mixer until smooth and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the banana mixture to the creamed butter mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Pour in the buttermilk and gently mix until the batter is smooth and evenly combined.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before adding frosting.
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing until the frosting reaches your desired sweetness and consistency.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using a spatula.
- Slice and serve the banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting.
This banana bread cake is rich, moist, and easy to prepare. The cream cheese frosting adds a perfect finishing touch, making it an irresistible dessert for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting is versatile and can be served in different ways depending on the occasion. Whether you are enjoying it as a casual snack or serving it at a gathering, these ideas will help you elevate the experience.
- Warm or Chilled: This cake tastes great at room temperature, but chilling it for an hour before serving enhances the texture of the frosting. If you prefer a warm slice, microwave it for about 10 seconds.
- Drizzle with Caramel or Honey: A light drizzle of caramel or honey over the frosting adds a rich depth of flavor.
- Top with Nuts or Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle chopped walnuts, pecans, or mini chocolate chips over the frosting for extra crunch and flavor.
- Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries to add a refreshing contrast.
- Add a Scoop of Ice Cream: Vanilla, caramel, or cinnamon ice cream pairs perfectly with this cake.
- Dust with Cinnamon or Cocoa Powder: A light sprinkle of cinnamon or cocoa powder on top enhances the cake’s flavor and presentation.
- Serve with Coffee or Tea: The warm, comforting flavors of this cake go well with a cup of coffee, chai, or black tea.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even though this recipe is straightforward, a few common mistakes can affect the final result. Here are some key things to watch out for:
1. Overmixing the Batter
Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake. Mix the ingredients until just combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
2. Using Underripe Bananas
Ripe bananas are essential for sweetness and moisture. If your bananas are still yellow with no brown spots, let them ripen for a few more days, or speed up the process by baking them in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.
3. Skipping the Cooling Step
Applying frosting to a warm cake will cause it to melt and become runny. Always let the cake cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting.
4. Not Measuring Ingredients Properly
Use the scoop-and-level method for flour and pack brown sugar tightly to ensure accurate measurements. Too much flour can make the cake dry, while too little sugar can affect the flavor.
5. Overbaking the Cake
If the cake bakes for too long, it can become dry. Check for doneness at 25 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is ready.
Side Dish Recommendations
Banana bread cake is rich and flavorful, so pairing it with lighter sides balances the meal. Here are eight excellent options:
1. Fresh Fruit Salad
A mix of berries, oranges, and kiwi provides a refreshing contrast to the sweet and creamy cake.
2. Greek Yogurt with Honey
The tanginess of Greek yogurt pairs well with the cake’s sweetness, and a drizzle of honey adds a natural touch of extra sweetness.
3. Vanilla Ice Cream
A scoop of vanilla ice cream enhances the cake’s flavor and creates a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
4. Chai or Spiced Tea
A warm cup of chai or cinnamon-spiced tea complements the banana and cream cheese flavors beautifully.
5. Espresso or Cappuccino
The slight bitterness of espresso balances the sweetness of the cake, making it an excellent pairing.
6. Whipped Cream with Cinnamon
A dollop of whipped cream with a sprinkle of cinnamon adds a light, airy texture to each bite.
7. Almond or Oat Milk Latte
For a dairy-free option, a latte made with almond or oat milk adds a subtle nutty flavor that pairs well with the cake.
8. A Drizzle of Warm Peanut Butter
A small amount of melted peanut butter drizzled over a slice of banana bread cake enhances the richness and adds a hint of nuttiness.
By following these serving suggestions and avoiding common mistakes, you can enjoy the best version of banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting. Whether served as a simple dessert or an indulgent treat with creative toppings, this cake is sure to impress.
Recipe Tips for the Best Banana Bread Cake
Achieving the perfect banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting requires a few key techniques. Here are some tips to ensure the best results every time.
1. Use Overripe Bananas
The darker the bananas, the better. Overripe bananas provide natural sweetness and a moist texture. If your bananas are not ripe enough, place them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two, or bake them in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes until the skins turn black.
2. Do Not Overmix the Batter
Mixing the batter too much can result in a dense cake. Stir until just combined to keep the texture light and soft.
3. Adjust the Frosting Sweetness
If you prefer a less sweet frosting, reduce the powdered sugar slightly or add a pinch of salt to balance the flavor. For a thicker consistency, add more powdered sugar; for a softer texture, add a teaspoon of milk or cream.
4. Add Extra Flavor Enhancements
For a more complex taste, consider adding:
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch
- ½ cup chocolate chips for extra sweetness
5. Proper Cooling Before Frosting
If the cake is even slightly warm, the frosting may melt and become too thin. Let the cake cool completely at room temperature before spreading the frosting.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Proper storage keeps this cake fresh and maintains its flavor. Follow these guidelines for storing and reheating.
Refrigeration
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Let it sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes before serving to soften the frosting.
Freezing
- Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
Reheating
- To warm up a slice, microwave for 10-15 seconds on medium power.
- If reheating an unfrosted cake, place it in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour. The texture may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
2. Can I Use Whole Wheat Flour Instead?
Yes, but the cake will be denser. To maintain a lighter texture, use half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
3. What Can I Use Instead of Buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, mix ½ cup milk with 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
4. Can I Make This Cake Without Frosting?
Yes, the cake is delicious on its own. You can also dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle with honey or caramel sauce.
5. Can I Turn This Into Cupcakes?
Yes, divide the batter into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes. Check for doneness with a toothpick.
6. How Do I Make the Cake Less Sweet?
Reduce the amount of granulated sugar or brown sugar in the batter, or make the frosting with less powdered sugar. A pinch of salt in the frosting also helps balance the sweetness.
7. Can I Add Mix-Ins Like Nuts or Chocolate Chips?
Yes, stir ½ cup chopped walnuts, pecans, or chocolate chips into the batter before baking.
8. How Do I Keep the Cake Moist?
- Do not overbake—check for doneness at 25 minutes.
- Store in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out.
- Use overripe bananas, as they add natural moisture.
Conclusion
Banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting is a simple yet indulgent dessert that balances soft, moist cake with creamy, tangy frosting. Whether served for breakfast, as a snack, or for a special occasion, this cake is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With easy substitutions, flavor additions, and proper storage, you can customize and enjoy this recipe in many ways.
Try this recipe and enjoy a delicious homemade treat that brings out the best flavors of banana bread in a rich, satisfying cake.
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