Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

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Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

Banana bread cake is a delicious twist on the classic banana bread recipe. This dessert combines the dense, moist texture of banana bread with the softness of a cake, making it a versatile option for both casual gatherings and formal occasions. Topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s a treat that banana lovers and cake enthusiasts adore. Perfect for using up overripe bananas, this recipe ensures nothing goes to waste while delivering rich flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

3 ripe bananas (mashed)

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour

1 tsp baking powder

1 tsp baking soda

½ tsp salt

1 tsp cinnamon (optional)

½ cup unsalted butter (softened)

½ cup vegetable oil

1 ½ cups granulated sugar

2 large eggs

1 tsp vanilla extract

½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz (225g) cream cheese (softened)

½ cup unsalted butter (softened)

3 cups powdered sugar (sifted)

1 tsp vanilla extract

2 tbsp heavy cream (optional, for a creamier texture)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, vegetable oil, and sugar until light and fluffy. This takes about 2–3 minutes using an electric mixer.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
  5. Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream (or Greek yogurt) until well combined.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined. Do not overmix.
  7. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting.

Step 2: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a large bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  3. Add the vanilla extract and heavy cream (if using) and beat until the frosting reaches your desired consistency.

Step 3: Assemble the Cake

  1. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
  2. For added decoration, sprinkle crushed nuts, banana slices, or a dusting of cinnamon on top.
  3. Slice and serve!

History and Evolution

Banana bread has its roots in the Great Depression when creative home bakers began incorporating overripe bananas into their recipes to reduce waste. Over time, variations such as banana muffins, banana cakes, and frosted banana desserts emerged. The addition of cream cheese frosting gives this version a modern flair, turning the humble banana bread into a show-stopping dessert.

Formation and Texture

This cake boasts a dense, yet fluffy crumb, thanks to the balance of bananas and leavening agents. The sour cream or Greek yogurt ensures moisture, while the cream cheese frosting adds a tangy richness that complements the sweetness of the cake.

Conclusion

Banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, beloved by dessert enthusiasts around the world. It’s perfect for breakfast, a midday snack, or an indulgent dessert after dinner. This cake proves that simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

For the Banana Cake Lovers

Banana cake enthusiasts adore this recipe for its nostalgic charm and versatility. Whether you prefer it plain, paired with a cup of coffee, or topped with an extravagant frosting, it’s a crowd-pleaser. The addition of cream cheese frosting elevates it to a level where banana lovers and frosting fans unite in sweet harmony.

Methods for Banana Lovers

Customizing Flavors: Add a handful of chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or coconut flakes to the batter.

Layered Option: Divide the batter between two 9-inch cake pans for a layered cake. Double the frosting to ensure every layer is covered.

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with gluten-free baking flour for a celiac-friendly version.

This is more than just a recipe; it’s a celebration of banana bread’s versatility and the universal love for a well-frosted dessert. Enjoy!

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