Banana cake is a delightful treat that combines the rich, sweet flavor of ripe bananas with the smooth and tangy goodness of cream cheese frosting. Imagine slicing into a moist, fluffy cake that melts in your mouth, leaving a burst of banana sweetness on your palate. This recipe is not just any dessert; it’s a family favorite that brings everyone together, whether at a cozy gathering or during a chilly evening at home. Did you know that banana cake was developed as a way to use up overripe bananas? It’s a perfect example of turning food waste into something delicious!
If you’re already a fan of succulent desserts like my popular vanilla sponge cake, you’re in for a treat! This Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a straightforward yet impressive confection that can charm any audience without the fuss. Gather your loved ones and prepare to indulge in a slice or two (or three!) of this heavenly cake.
What is Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
So, what exactly is this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting? Well, it’s a moist, flavorful cake made primarily from ripe bananas, lending it a rich yet delicate texture that pairs beautifully with a creamy frosting that balances the sweetness perfectly. Have you ever wondered about the origins of banana cake? Was it really invented because people were obsessed with bananas? And let’s face it; the saying “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach” rings true here! This cake has a magical ability to win over anyone who takes a bite. So, why not whip up this scrumptious treat and see for yourself? Your next family gathering deserves it!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Let me share three reasons why this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting will quickly become your go-to dessert. First, this cake is a showstopper! The moist texture of the cake paired with the silky cream cheese frosting creates an irresistible treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Secondly, by making this delightful dessert at home, you’re not just saving money but also crafting something entirely genuine and tailored to your family’s taste. It’s a win-win! Finally, the addition of various toppings, like walnuts or toasted coconut flakes, can elevate this cake to new heights of flavor. Think of it as being a little like a classic carrot cake but with that vibrant banana twist!
Are you ready to impress your loved ones with this scrumptious cake? Let’s dive into the details!
How to Make Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Quick Overview
Making this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a breeze, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels. With its moist texture and a flavor profile that’s both sweet and tangy, this cake will become a staple in your baking repertoire. Preparation takes around 20 minutes, and with a baking time of about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have a delectable treat ready for your gathering in no time!
Key Ingredients for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Here are the ingredients you will need to create this delicious Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup buttermilk (or a homemade substitute of milk with lemon juice)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat Your Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Mash the Bananas: In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Alternate Mixing: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and mashed bananas. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting: In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and spreadable.
- Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting on top and enjoy!
Top Tips for Perfecting Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots!
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or even a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter for added flavor.
- Don’t Overmix: Once you add flour to the wet ingredients, stir only until just combined to avoid a tough cake.
- Timing is Key: Keep an eye on your cake while it bakes. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture.
Storing and Reheating Tips
To keep your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, you can freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight, or let it come to room temperature on the kitchen counter, which helps maintain that delightful texture.
Try this scrumptiously easy Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting at your next family gathering. Your loved ones will rave about it, and who knows? You might even inspire them to dive into the world of baking! So grab those ripe bananas and let’s get baking!
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth. Set aside.
- In another bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, and then stir in the vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk and mashed bananas. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Stir until just combined.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- In a bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth.
- Gradually add in the powdered sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract until the mixture is creamy and spreadable.
- Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting on top and enjoy!
Leave a Reply