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Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist and tender dessert combining the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with a rich, tangy cream cheese topping. Perfect for family gatherings, celebrations, or a cozy treat, this classic cake uses simple, everyday ingredients to create a flavorful and crowd-pleasing dessert with a smooth, luscious frosting.

Ingredients

Scale

Cake Ingredients

  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients

  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 to 3 cups powdered sugar
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons milk or cream (as needed for consistency)
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Batter: Start by mashing the ripe bananas until smooth but still slightly chunky for texture. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, then beat in the eggs one at a time followed by the vanilla extract. Alternate adding the dry ingredients (flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt) and mashed bananas to the wet mixture, folding gently to keep the batter airy and soft.
  2. Bake the Cake: Pour the batter evenly into a greased or parchment-lined 9×13 inch cake pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure the frosting stays smooth and intact.
  3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting: Beat the softened cream cheese with butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar while mixing on low speed until fully combined and smooth. Add a splash of milk or cream as needed to reach spreading consistency. For extra flavor, add a few drops of vanilla extract and mix well.
  4. Frost the Cake: Once the cake is completely cool, apply a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Use a spatula to create swirls or smooth the frosting evenly. Optionally, garnish with chopped nuts or thin banana slices for added texture and presentation.

Notes

  • Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
  • Do not overmix the batter; fold gently to avoid a tough cake texture.
  • Ensure the cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting or sliding off.
  • Use room temperature butter and cream cheese for a smoother frosting texture.
  • Test for doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.

Nutrition

Keywords: banana cake, cream cheese frosting, moist banana cake, easy dessert, classic banana cake, homemade frosting