Looking for a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor? This Moist Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate treat! Made with ripe bananas and topped with a luscious, tangy frosting, this cake is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or any sweet craving. Let’s dive into this SEO-friendly recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Cake
This banana cake is a dessert lover’s dream:
- Super Moist: Ripe bananas ensure a tender, flavorful crumb.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Versatile: Great for celebrations, snacks, or even breakfast.
- Irresistible Frosting: Creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting steals the show.
Moist Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 12):
For the Cake:
- 3 large ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1-2 tbsp milk (as needed for consistency)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prep: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line with parchment paper.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar with a mixer until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
- Add Wet Ingredients: Beat in eggs one at a time, then add mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
- Combine: Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Fold in nuts if using.
- Bake: Pour batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely in the pan.
- Make Frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar, then vanilla. Add milk 1 tbsp at a time until spreadable. Spread frosting over cooled cake.
- Serve: Slice and serve. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Calories: ~380 kcal per slice (with frosting)
Why This Recipe Is a Winner
This banana cake is both delicious and practical:
- Nutrient Boost: Bananas provide potassium and fiber.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Cake stays moist for days, and flavors deepen over time.
- Freezer Option: Freeze unfrosted cake for up to 3 months.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Appeals to kids and adults alike with its sweet, tangy balance.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Cake
- Use Ripe Bananas: Overripe bananas with brown spots are sweeter and mash easily.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix batter until just combined to keep the cake tender.
- Check Doneness: Ovens vary, so start checking at 25 minutes.
- Frosting Consistency: Adjust milk in frosting for a spreadable or pipeable texture.
- Add Texture: Sprinkle chopped nuts or chocolate chips on the frosting for extra flair.
Customization Ideas
Make it your own:
- Chocolate Twist: Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the batter.
- Spiced Up: Include 1/4 tsp nutmeg or cloves for warmth.
- Fruit Boost: Mix in 1/2 cup crushed pineapple for extra moisture.
- Nut-Free: Skip nuts or replace with shredded coconut.
Pairing Suggestions
Elevate your dessert with:
- Coffee or Tea: Complements the cake’s sweetness.
- Fresh Berries: A side of strawberries or raspberries adds color.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm cake with a scoop for indulgence.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop on the side for extra decadence.
Conclusion
This Moist Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect dessert for any occasion, combining the natural sweetness of bananas with a dreamy, tangy frosting. Easy to make and impossible to resist, it’s a recipe you’ll return to again and again. Bake it today and share your results in the comments!