If you’re a banana lover, then this Banana Bread Cake is going to be your new favorite go-to treat. Imagine biting into a soft, moist piece of cake, infused with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, and topped off with creamy, luscious cream cheese frosting. It’s comfort food at its finest, evoking the warmth of home and the joy of baking.
What makes this cake so special? It’s simple, yet absolutely irresistible. The combination of mashed bananas, brown sugar, and a hint of vanilla melds beautifully into a cake that is delightfully sweet without being too sugary. Plus, the cream cheese frosting adds a rich tang that perfectly balances the sweetness of the banana bread, creating a harmony of flavors that will leave your taste buds singing.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile — it can be served as a breakfast treat, an afternoon snack, or even a dessert. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or indulging by yourself, one thing is for sure: this Banana Bread Cake will surely brighten your day. Also, you can whip it together with pantry staples, making it a fantastic option when you want to bake something delicious without a fuss.
Let’s dive into how to make this delightful treat!
How to Make Banana Bread Cake
Making this Banana Bread Cake is a breeze, making it a perfect recipe for both beginner bakers and seasoned chefs. You’ll be amazed by how simple the steps are while still producing a cake that feels like a special occasion indulgence.
Ingredients:
To create this mouthwatering cake, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp milk (if needed for consistency)
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 tsp salt
Directions:
Now, let’s get started on baking this delightful cake.
Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is a crucial step because it ensures that your cake bakes evenly.
Prepare the Pan: Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This will help prevent the cake from sticking and will make it easier to remove once it’s done baking.
Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the mashed bananas, melted butter, and brown sugar. Stir them together until they are well mixed and the brown sugar begins to dissolve. This mixture should be smooth and slightly glossy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs and vanilla extract. Make sure everything is well combined, creating a lovely, fragrant base for your cake.
Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the dry ingredients, leading to a more consistent bake.
Mix the Batter: Gradually add the dry mixture to your banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
Pour into the Pan: Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Use a spatula to smooth the top, ensuring it’s even.
Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Cool the Cake: Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step is important, especially if you want to frost the cake later without it melting.
Prepare the Frosting: While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, mix the softened cream cheese, a dash of vanilla extract, and the milk together until the mixture is smooth and spreadable. If it feels too thick, add a little more milk until you reach your desired consistency.
Frost and Enjoy: Once the banana bread cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting on top generously. Slice and serve!
How to Serve Banana Bread Cake
Serving this Banana Bread Cake can be as simple or as fancy as you wish! Here are a few ideas on how to enjoy it:
Breakfast Delight: Serve a slice of the cake alongside a warm cup of coffee or tea for a delightful breakfast option. The sweetness of the banana bread pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of your favorite breakfast beverage.
Elevated Dessert: For an elegant touch, plate a slice with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon. You can also add a few banana slices on the side for extra flair!
Snack Attack: Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up, you can munch on a slice as a mid-day snack. It’s great for kids, too — a wholesome, sweet treat that won’t leave them crashing later.
Celebratory Cake: If you’re hosting a gathering, this cake makes a fantastic centerpiece. Add some seasonal fruit or a decorative drizzle of frosting over the top for a festive look.
Gifting: Consider wrapping a loaf in parchment paper and tying it with twine to gift to a friend or neighbor. It’s a lovely way of sharing comfort and kindness.
Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Equipment
- 9-inch Round Cake Pan
- Mixing Bowls
- Electric Mixer
- Whisk
- rubber spatula
- Cooling Rack
- Oven
Ingredients
Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas about 3 medium bananas
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar sifted
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar with an electric mixer until pale and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add eggs one at a time, beating after each addition. Mix in mashed bananas, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually fold in dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.
- To make frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, then vanilla extract. Beat until fluffy and spreadable.
- Spread frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Slice and serve for a cozy, banana-sweet treat.
Notes
How to Store Banana Bread Cake
Storing your Banana Bread Cake properly will keep it delicious and fresh for days. Here are some tips on how to do it:
Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a few days, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: If you want to extend its shelf life, you can refrigerate the cake. Use an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. It should stay fresh for about a week when refrigerated.
Freezing: For longer storage, this cake freezes wonderfully. First, slice the cake, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
Tips to Make Banana Bread Cake
Baking is all about finding techniques that work best for you, so here are a few tips to help you nail this Banana Bread Cake:
Select Ripe Bananas: The more speckled your bananas are, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. They should be brown and soft — perfect for mashing!
Gentle Mixing: When incorporating the dry ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture rather than the soft cakey crumb that you want.
Check for Doneness: Make sure to check your cake a minute or two before the recommended baking time. Ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking, which can dry out your cake.
Frosting Tips: If your cream cheese frosting is too thick, don’t hesitate to add a bit more milk. You want it to be creamy and easy to spread, not clumpy or hard.
Adjust for Flavor: If you enjoy experimenting, consider adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile. A teaspoon of cinnamon can bring a warm, cozy touch to your cake.
Healthy Notes About Banana Bread Cake
While this Banana Bread Cake is definitely a treat, there are healthier aspects to consider:
Use Whole Wheat Flour: By opting for whole wheat flour alongside all-purpose flour, you’re boosting the fiber content of your cake. Fiber is essential for digestive health and can help you feel full longer.
Bananas for Nutrients: Bananas are not just sweet; they’re also packed with potassium, which is important for heart health, and vitamin B6, which supports brain health. Plus, they provide natural sweetness, meaning you don’t need to add as much sugar.
Cream Cheese in Moderation: While the cream cheese frosting adds flavor and creaminess, it’s wise to use it in moderation. Cream cheese contains protein and can contribute to your daily calcium intake.
Lower Sugar Option: If you prefer, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar in the cake by a quarter or half to make it a bit less sweet while still enjoying its deliciousness.
Variation
This Banana Bread Cake can be easily customized to suit your tastes. Here are a few fun variations to consider:
Nutty Additions: Try adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture of the cake. Just a half cup sprinkled into the batter can bring extra flavor and nutrients.
Chocolate Chips: For a chocolatey twist, fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips (about 1 cup) to the batter. The chocolate pairs wonderfully with the bananas, making it a decadent dessert.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate other fruits like blueberries or strawberries for a fruitier flavor. They can add a nice contrast to the sweetness of the bananas and cream cheese frosting.
Spiced Up: Add some warm spices such as allspice or ginger for an aromatic touch. This can create a unique flavor profile, perfect for holiday gatherings.
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FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work wonderfully in banana bread and cakes. Just make sure to thaw them beforehand and drain any excess liquid. They can help you achieve that moist texture without compromising flavor.
2. How do I know when the cake is done baking?
The best way to check for doneness is by inserting a toothpick or a cake tester into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it’s ready. If there’s batter clinging to it, give it a few more minutes in the oven.
3. Can I omit the frosting?
Definitely! The cake is delicious on its own, and you can enjoy it plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar. If you prefer a lighter option, try a yogurt topping or simply serve it with fresh fruit.
This Banana Bread Cake is not just an ordinary recipe; it’s a warm hug in dessert form. Whether you’re treating yourself or sharing with loved ones, each bite is a delightful reminder of the comfort of home-cooked sweets. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to indulge in a slice of pure banana bliss! Enjoy!