# **Divine Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Symphony of Flavors**
## **Introduction**
There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a freshly baked banana cake wafting through the house—warm, sweet, and utterly comforting. This **Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting** is a foolproof gourmet recipe that delivers a moist, tender crumb and a rich, tangy frosting. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake will impress everyone.
Double the recipe next time—because one slice is never enough!
—
## **History of Banana Cake**
Banana-based desserts became popular in the U.S. during the Great Depression when resourceful home cooks sought ways to use overripe bananas instead of wasting them. The addition of cream cheese frosting, a Southern staple, elevated this humble cake into a decadent treat enjoyed worldwide.
—
## **Health Benefits**
– **Bananas** are rich in potassium, fiber, and natural sweetness.
– **Greek yogurt** (optional) adds protein and moisture.
– **Whole wheat flour** (optional substitute) increases fiber content.
—
## **Ingredients**
### **For the Banana Cake:**
– 3 large ripe bananas (mashed, about 1½ cups)
– 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– ½ tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
– ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
– ½ cup (100g) brown sugar
– 2 large eggs, room temperature
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk (or Greek yogurt)
### **For the Cream Cheese Frosting:**
– 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
– ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
– 3½ cups (420g) powdered sugar, sifted
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
—
## **Instructions**
### **Method: Making the Banana Cake**
1. **Preheat & Prep:**
– Preheat oven to **350°F (175°C)**.
– Grease and line a **9×13-inch pan** or two **8-inch round pans**.
2. **Dry Ingredients:**
– In a bowl, whisk together **flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon**.
3. **Wet Ingredients:**
– In another bowl, beat **butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar** until fluffy.
– Add **eggs, one at a time**, then mix in **vanilla and mashed bananas**.
4. **Combine:**
– Alternate adding **dry ingredients** and **buttermilk** to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
5. **Bake:**
– Pour batter into the pan and bake for **25-30 mins** (round pans) or **35-40 mins** (sheet cake) until a toothpick comes out clean.
– Cool completely before frosting.
### **Method: Cream Cheese Frosting**
1. Beat **cream cheese and butter** until smooth.
2. Gradually add **powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt**, beating until creamy.
3. Frost the cooled cake and decorate with banana slices or walnuts (optional).
—
## **Nutritional Info (Per Slice)**
– Calories: ~380 kcal
– Carbs: 58g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 16g
– Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 42g
—
## **Conclusion & Cake Lovers’ Verdict**
This **Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting** is a **crowd-pleaser**—perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or a cozy night in. The soft crumb and luscious frosting make it irresistible.
**Why lovers adore it:**
✔ **Moist & flavorful** from ripe bananas.
✔ **Creamy, tangy frosting** balances the sweetness.
✔ **Easy to customize** with nuts or chocolate chips.
**Pro Tip:** Double the recipe—your kitchen will smell heavenly, and everyone will beg for seconds!
**🍌🍰 Enjoy every blissful bite!**
Would you like any variations (like adding nuts or a caramel drizzle)? 😊