Oh, the sweet aroma of freshly baked banana cake wafting through the kitchen! If you’re like me and have a soft spot for moist desserts, then you’re in for a treat. Today, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s not just any cake; it’s a delightful blend of flavors that will make your taste buds dance! Plus, it’s a quick and easy recipe that can be whipped up in just 45 minutes. Perfect for those busy weeknights when you want to impress your family without spending hours in the kitchen. And if you’re looking for easy pasta recipes to pair with this cake, I’ve got you covered!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Moist and flavorful, thanks to ripe bananas.
- Cream cheese frosting adds a rich, creamy touch.
- Great for any occasion, from family gatherings to casual get-togethers.
- Can be customized with nuts or banana slices for added texture.
Ingredients
Let’s gather our ingredients! You’ll need:
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed, about 1 1/4 cups of mashed banana)
- 1 1/4 cups granulated sugar
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (or unflavored coconut oil)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- 1 (8 oz. pkg.) cream cheese (room temperature)
- 1/2 cup butter (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 1/4-5 cups powdered sugar
- Additional toppings: chopped pecans or walnuts and/or banana slices
Full ingredient list with measurements is provided in the printable recipe card below.
How to Make the Recipe
Now, let’s get baking! Follow these simple steps:
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Lightly spray a 9×13" pan with non-stick baking spray and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas using a fork or potato masher. Add the sugar, vegetable oil, sour cream, eggs, and vanilla. Mix well using a whisk or hand mixer.
- In a second bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Use a fork or whisk to mix together, helping to break up any lumps.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients. Use a whisk or hand mixer to mix the batter. If you’re adding nuts, fold them into the batter using a rubber scraper.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake the cake at 350 degrees for 32-35 minutes until golden brown. Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean and crumb-free, it’s done. Let the cake cool completely to room temperature before frosting.
- For the cream cheese frosting: place the room temperature cream cheese and butter into a mixing bowl. Cream together with a hand or stand mixer. Add in the vanilla. With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the powdered sugar one cup at a time, stopping to scrape down the sides of the bowl. The frosting will be thick but not overly firm. Spread evenly onto the cooled cake. Top with additional chopped nuts and/or banana slices, if desired.
Pro Tips for Making the Recipe
Here are some of my favorite tips to ensure your banana cake turns out perfectly:
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
- Don’t skip the cooling step before frosting; it helps the frosting stay intact.
- If you want to make this a Cream Cheese Banana Cake, consider adding a layer of banana slices between the cake and frosting.
- For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cinnamon to the batter for a warm flavor.
How to Serve
This banana cake is perfect for any occasion! Serve it as a delightful dessert after a family dinner or as a sweet treat during a coffee break. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent experience. If you’re looking for weeknight dinner ideas, consider serving this cake alongside some creamy garlic pasta for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
You can make this cake ahead of time! Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and frost it before serving.
So, what are you waiting for? Grab those ripe bananas and let’s get baking! This Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is sure to become a family favorite. And if you’re in the mood for more delicious recipes, check out my other favorites like the Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, and Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Happy baking!
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9x13 inch pan with non-stick spray.
- Mix mashed bananas, sugar, sour cream, oil, eggs, and vanilla until well combined.
- Combine dry ingredients; gradually add to wet mixture. Fold in nuts if using.
- Pour batter into pan and bake for 32-35 minutes. Cool completely before frosting.
- Beat cream cheese, butter, vanilla, and powdered sugar until smooth. Spread on cooled cake and add toppings.