Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Decadent Dessert

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting: A Decadent Dessert

If you’re a fan of banana bread and love the creamy tang of cream cheese frosting, this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate treat! Combining the moist, flavorful texture of banana bread with the richness of a cake, this dessert is perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just a sweet indulgence for yourself. Below, you’ll find a detailed recipe, tips, and variations to make this cake your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and flavorful: Ripe bananas and sour cream ensure a tender crumb.
• Creamy frosting: The tangy cream cheese frosting balances the sweetness of the cake.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe beginner-friendly.
• Versatile: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.

Ingredients

For the Banana Cake:

• 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 bananas)
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream (or buttermilk for extra moisture)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream (optional, for consistency)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal .

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Fold in the mashed bananas and sour cream until smooth.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender .

Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
2. Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting .

Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. Increase the speed and beat until fluffy.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract and heavy cream (if needed) for a smooth, spreadable consistency .

Step 5: Frost and Serve

1. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
2. Garnish with banana slices, chopped walnuts, or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flair .

Tips for Success

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake .
• Room temperature ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for smoother mixing .
• Don’t overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense, so mix just until ingredients are combined .
• Cool completely before frosting: This prevents the frosting from melting and ensures a clean finish .

Variations to Try

1. Nutty Banana Cake: Add 1 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a crunchy texture .
2. Chocolate Chip Banana Cake: Stir in 1 cup of chocolate chips for a decadent twist .
3. Spiced Version: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor .
4. Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend .
5. Vegan Option: Use flax eggs, plant-based butter, and dairy-free cream cheese for a vegan-friendly version .

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes! Bake the cake a day ahead, cool it, and cover it with plastic wrap. Frost just before serving for the freshest presentation .

Q: Can I freeze this cake?
A: Absolutely! Wrap the unfrosted cake tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and frost before serving .

Q: Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream?
A: Yes, Greek yogurt works as a great substitute and adds a slight tang .

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days .

Conclusion

This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful fusion of two beloved treats—banana bread and cake. With its moist texture, rich banana flavor, and creamy frosting, it’s a dessert that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re baking it for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet craving, this recipe is a must-try. Enjoy every bite of this comforting and indulgent treat! 🍌🍰✨

Image Suggestion

Here’s a visual representation of the final product:

For more inspiration, check out these related recipes:

• Classic Banana Bread
• Cinnamon Banana Muffins
• Chocolate Chip Banana Bread

Happy baking! 🧁