If you’ve ever dreamed of a dessert that perfectly marries moist, flavorful banana bread with the decadent creaminess of frosting, then you are in for a real treat with this Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. This recipe takes everything you love about classic banana bread and elevates it to cake status, layering it with rich, tangy cream cheese frosting that feels like a warm, comforting hug in every bite. Whether you’re craving a sweet breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a show-stopping dessert, this banana bread cake delivers on texture, flavor, and that irresistible homemade charm.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right is the secret to nailing this cake. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of moistness, sweetness, and spice, ensuring your Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe turns out just right every time.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): The foundation that gives the cake its structure and tender crumb.
- Baking soda (1 teaspoon): Helps the cake rise beautifully, keeping it light and fluffy.
- Baking powder (1/2 teaspoon): Works in tandem with soda for an even lift.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, inviting spice that makes this banana bread special.
- Unsalted butter, softened (1/2 cup + 1/4 cup): Needed both in the cake and frosting for richness and smooth texture.
- Granulated sugar (3/4 cup): Sweetens the cake just right without overpowering the bananas.
- Brown sugar, packed (1/4 cup): Brings a deep, caramel-like flavor and moistness.
- Eggs (2 large): Bind ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s tender crumb.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons total): Enhances the overall flavor with a lovely floral note.
- Mashed ripe bananas (1 cup, about 2 large bananas): The star ingredient that infuses natural sweetness and moisture.
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (1/2 cup): Adds tang and moisture to keep the cake tender.
- Cream cheese, softened (8 oz): The base of the luscious frosting, creamy and slightly tangy.
- Powdered sugar (1 1/2 cups): Sweetens and thickens the frosting to perfection.
- Milk (1-2 tablespoons): Adjusts frosting consistency so it spreads smoothly.
How to Make Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to a cozy 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring a 9×9-inch baking pan or lining it with parchment paper ensures your cake won’t stick, making it super easy to remove once it’s baked to golden perfection.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This blending distributes the leavening agents and spices evenly so every bite bursts with consistent flavor and rises beautifully.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars
Grab a large bowl and beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial—it incorporates air that will give your cake a wonderful lift. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each, then stir in vanilla extract for that fragrant sweet touch.
Step 4: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, fold in your mashed bananas and sour cream. These ingredients add moisture and tenderness, plus that unmistakable banana flavor that makes this cake a true delight.
Step 5: Add Dry Ingredients
Gently mix the dry ingredients into your wet mixture just until combined. It’s important not to overmix here; a few lumps are perfect because overworking the batter can make your cake dense instead of tender.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan and slide it into the hot oven. Bake for 30 to 35 minutes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will start to smell heavenly as the cake bakes to a golden brown.
Step 7: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
While the cake cools, whip together the cream cheese and softened butter until silky smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and milk until the frosting reaches a creamy, spreadable consistency that’s just right for topping your cake.
Step 8: Frost and Enjoy
Once your banana bread cake has cooled completely, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Slice into squares and prepare for compliments because this Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is a total showstopper!
How to Serve Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of charm, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting. A few banana slices or a light dusting of cinnamon can also elevate the presentation while adding subtle flavor hints.
Side Dishes
This banana bread cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a comforting dessert or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. For a breakfast treat, serve it alongside a cup of your favorite coffee or chai tea to create a perfect cozy moment.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to impress guests? Cut the cake into fun shapes using cookie cutters or serve individual slices on pretty plates with a drizzle of honey or caramel sauce. Layering a few slices with extra frosting between them can also transform it into a mini layer cake for celebrations.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cake? No problem! Keep it fresh by storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the cream cheese frosting luscious and prevents the cake from drying out.
Freezing
You can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving, and if you like, refresh with a little extra frosting or a quick microwave warm-up to regain softness.
Reheating
Warm your slices gently in the microwave for about 15 seconds on medium power. This brings out the banana’s sweetness and softens the cake, making it taste freshly baked and even more comforting.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect because they are sweeter and mash easily, which enhances the moistness and rich banana flavor of the cake.
Is it okay to substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt?
Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for sour cream. It adds a similar tang and moisture without altering the texture of the cake.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
You can, by swapping the all-purpose flour for a reliable gluten-free flour blend. Just be sure the blend contains xanthan gum or another binder to help keep the cake tender and well-structured.
How long does the cream cheese frosting stay fresh?
When kept refrigerated in an airtight container, cream cheese frosting stays fresh for up to 5 days. For the best taste and texture, enjoy it within this period.
Can I double this recipe for a larger cake?
Definitely! Just double all ingredients and use a larger pan or two pans. Adjust baking time accordingly, usually adding 10–15 minutes, and always test with a toothpick to ensure doneness.
Final Thoughts
This Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is more than just a dessert; it’s a slice of pure comfort and joy that’s easy to make and impossible not to love. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this cake promises a perfect blend of moist banana goodness and smooth, creamy frosting. So go ahead, bake it, share it, and watch it become a new favorite in your recipe collection!
Print
Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist and flavorful treat combining ripe bananas with warm cinnamon and a tangy cream cheese topping. Perfectly sweetened and tender, it’s a comforting dessert or snack that’s easy to make and sure to impress.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons milk (for desired consistency)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×9-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon until well combined. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This aerates the batter for a tender crumb. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to incorporate fully. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: Mix in the mashed ripe bananas along with the sour cream or Greek yogurt, blending until you have a smooth consistency that adds moisture and flavor to the cake.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture. Stir gently just until combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the cake tender.
- Bake: Pour the batter evenly into the prepared baking pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that the cake is done.
- Prepare the Frosting: While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and enough milk to achieve a creamy, spreadable frosting.
- Frost and Serve: Once the cake has completely cooled to avoid melting the frosting, evenly spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Slice into pieces and enjoy your delicious banana bread cake!
Notes
- Ensure bananas are very ripe for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
- Use sour cream or Greek yogurt interchangeably based on preference or availability; both add moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter after adding dry ingredients to prevent a dense texture.
- Frosting can be adjusted in thickness by adding more or less milk.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep the frosting fresh.
