Moist, tender, and impossibly flavorful, this Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is everything you love about classic banana bread, but elevated to celebration status. Ripe bananas infuse the cake with natural sweetness and richness, while a dreamy layer of tangy cream cheese frosting transforms each bite into pure comfort. Whether you’re baking for a special brunch, a cozy family gathering, or simply to use up those extra bananas on your counter, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds. This is the banana cake you’ll want to make again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting comes from simple ingredients that work together to create layers of flavor and texture. Each one has a special role, so let’s break it down and appreciate what goes into making this cake truly unforgettable.
- All-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure for a moist, tender crumb.
- Baking soda: Adds just the right lift, ensuring your cake is light yet satisfying.
- Baking powder: Works alongside the baking soda to help the cake rise beautifully.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the bananas and spices.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy warmth and gentle spice to every bite.
- Unsalted butter (for cake and frosting): Creates a rich, buttery flavor and silky texture.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps achieve that perfect golden brown top.
- Brown sugar: Lends moisture and a subtle caramel note that pairs perfectly with bananas.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and add richness; room temperature eggs mix in best.
- Vanilla extract (for cake and frosting): Rounds out the flavors and enhances the banana and cream cheese notes.
- Sour cream: This is the secret to a super-moist, tender cake that stays fresh longer.
- Ripe bananas: The star of the show! Make sure they’re spotty and soft for ultimate flavor.
- Cream cheese: For that dreamy, tangy frosting that elevates the whole cake.
- Powdered sugar: Gives the frosting its lush, smooth sweetness.
- Pinch of salt (for frosting): Just a touch keeps the frosting from being too sweet and brings out the tanginess.
How to Make Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Prep the Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan with butter or nonstick spray to ensure your cake releases easily. Taking a moment to do this in advance sets you up for a stress-free baking experience!
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This step ensures all the leaveners and spice are evenly distributed, so your cake bakes up light and flavorful in every bite.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with both the granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps the cake rise and gives it a lovely, tender texture.
Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Pour in the vanilla extract and mix until everything is beautifully combined. This step builds richness and depth of flavor in your Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Step 5: Mix in the Bananas and Sour Cream
Stir in the sour cream and mashed bananas, blending until the batter looks thick and luscious. The bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, while the sour cream keeps the crumb incredibly tender.
Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture in two or three additions, mixing gently just until everything is incorporated. Avoid over-mixing to keep your cake soft and fluffy.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and smooth the top evenly. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before moving on to the frosting—patience pays off here!
Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until silky smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt, beating until the frosting is light, fluffy, and completely irresistible. This creamy topping is the finishing touch that makes the Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting truly unforgettable.
Step 9: Frost and Enjoy
Once the cake is completely cool, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Slice, serve, and watch smiles appear around your table. Enjoy every bite—you’ve earned it!
How to Serve Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Garnishes
Dress up your Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting by sprinkling a dusting of ground cinnamon or nutmeg over the frosting, or add a handful of toasted chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch. If you’re feeling extra festive, a drizzle of caramel sauce or a few banana slices arranged artfully on top will make your cake look like it came straight from a bakery.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or a tall glass of cold milk. For a brunch spread, serve alongside fresh fruit salad or yogurt parfaits to balance the sweet, rich flavors. If you’re making it for dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side is pure bliss.
Creative Ways to Present
Try cutting the cake into bite-sized squares and serving them on a tiered tray for a party, or arrange slices on a pretty platter with a few edible flowers for an elegant touch. For a personalized twist, let guests add their favorite toppings—like mini chocolate chips, coconut flakes, or extra chopped nuts—at a DIY toppings bar.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting covered in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to five days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making those next-day slices even more irresistible!
Freezing
If you’d like to save some for later, freeze unfrosted cake slices wrapped tightly in plastic and foil for up to three months. You can also freeze frosted cake, but let it firm up in the fridge first, then wrap and store. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for best texture.
Reheating
To enjoy a warm slice, microwave individual portions for just 10–15 seconds. If reheating from frozen, allow the cake to thaw first, then warm gently. Be careful not to overheat, as the cream cheese frosting is best when soft and creamy, not melted.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt works wonderfully in this recipe and will give your Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting a slightly tangy flavor while keeping it moist and tender.
What’s the best way to mash bananas?
The easiest method is to use a fork or a potato masher on very ripe bananas. If you prefer an ultra-smooth batter, you can use a hand mixer or blender, but a few small lumps are totally fine and add to the cake’s character.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour in place of the all-purpose flour. Make sure your blend contains xanthan gum or a similar stabilizer for the best texture.
Will this recipe work as cupcakes?
Definitely! Simply divide the batter among lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F for about 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Top each cupcake with a swirl of cream cheese frosting for a fun, portable treat.
How do I know when the cake is fully baked?
Check with a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is ready to come out of the oven. The top should also spring back lightly when pressed.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a dessert that’s guaranteed to wow everyone at the table, look no further than this Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s simple, decadent, and packed with nostalgic flavor—the perfect way to celebrate any occasion or just make an ordinary day a little sweeter. Give it a try and watch it become a new favorite in your home!
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Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist, flavorful dessert perfect for any occasion. Made with ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake offers a delightful twist on traditional banana bread, delivering a soft texture and sweet, creamy topping that’s irresistible.
Ingredients
Banana Bread Cake
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup sour cream
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1½ cups)
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to ensure the cake doesn’t stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents and spices.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy, creating a smooth base.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to incorporate air, then add vanilla extract for flavor.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Mix in the sour cream and mashed ripe bananas until well blended, adding moisture and banana flavor.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients and mix just until combined to avoid overmixing, which can toughen the cake.
- Pour Batter and Bake: Pour the batter into the greased pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before applying frosting to prevent melting and sliding.
- Prepare Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt, then beat until fluffy.
- Frost the Cake: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled banana bread cake for a rich and sweet finish.
Notes
- For a nutty twist, fold ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter before baking.
- You can add a drizzle of caramel or sprinkle cinnamon on top of the frosting for extra flavor and flair.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
