Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

by

Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Introduction

Banana cake is a classic dessert loved for its moist texture, rich banana flavor, and comforting sweetness. This cake is a fantastic way to use overripe bananas, turning them into a delightful treat. Paired with smooth and tangy cream cheese frosting, banana cake becomes an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Whether served as a simple snack or a festive celebration cake, this recipe brings joy to all who taste it.

History of Banana Cake

Banana cake has its roots in the early 20th century when bananas became widely available in the U.S. and other parts of the world. The Great Depression encouraged home bakers to find creative ways to use ripe bananas rather than waste them. The rise of baking soda and baking powder made it easier to create light and fluffy cakes, leading to the evolution of banana cake as a staple in home baking. Over time, variations emerged, including the addition of nuts, spices, and, most famously, cream cheese frosting, which adds a rich, tangy contrast to the cake’s sweetness.

Ingredients

For the Banana Cake:

2 ½ cups (315g) all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking soda

1 teaspoon baking powder

½ teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)

½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

1 cup (200g) granulated sugar

½ cup (100g) brown sugar

2 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 cup (240ml) buttermilk (or 1 cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice)

3 large ripe bananas, mashed

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened

½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened

3 cups (360g) powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1-2 tablespoons milk or heavy cream (if needed for consistency)

Optional Additions:

½ cup (60g) chopped walnuts or pecans (for added crunch)

½ teaspoon nutmeg for extra warmth

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round cake pans.
  2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
  4. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
  5. Mix in the mashed bananas. The batter may look slightly curdled—this is normal.
  6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix until just combined (do not overmix).
  7. If using nuts, fold them in gently.

Step 2: Bake the Cake

  1. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan(s).
  2. Bake for 30-35 minutes (for a 9×13-inch pan) or 25-30 minutes (for round pans) until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

  1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
  2. Add the vanilla extract and gradually mix in the powdered sugar until fully incorporated.
  3. If needed, add 1-2 tablespoons of milk or cream to reach a spreadable consistency.

Step 4: Assemble and Decorate

  1. Once the cake has cooled completely, spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. If making a layered cake, spread frosting between the layers before covering the top and sides.
  2. Optionally, sprinkle with chopped walnuts or a drizzle of caramel for extra flavor.

Formation & Variations

This banana cake can be shaped and styled in different ways:

Layer Cake: Divide the batter between two or three cake pans for a stunning multi-layered cake.

Sheet Cake: Bake in a 9×13-inch pan for an easy-to-serve version.

Cupcakes: Pour the batter into muffin tins and bake for 18-22 minutes.

Loaf Cake: Bake in a loaf pan for a banana bread-like experience.

Popular Variations

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake: Add ¾ cup of chocolate chips to the batter.

Spiced Banana Cake: Increase the cinnamon and add nutmeg or cloves for warmth.

Coconut Banana Cake: Mix in shredded coconut for a tropical twist.

Conclusion

Banana cake with cream cheese frosting is a timeless dessert cherished by many. Its moist texture, natural sweetness, and creamy frosting make it a favorite among cake lovers. Whether enjoyed as a casual treat or a special celebration cake, it never fails to impress.

Who Loves Banana Cake?

Banana cake is adored by people of all ages!

Kids love its sweet and soft texture.

Bakers appreciate its simple ingredients and versatility.

Dessert Lovers enjoy its rich flavor with cream cheese frosting.

Healthy Eaters opt for whole wheat flour or honey for a healthier twist.

Grandparents cherish it as a nostalgic homemade classic.

Final Thoughts

This banana cake recipe is perfect for anyone who loves baking and enjoys comforting, homemade treats. Whether you’re making it for a birthday, holiday, or just to use up ripe bananas, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. So grab those bananas and start baking—you won’t regret it!

Leave a Comment