Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Welcome to our delightful recipe blog! Today, we’re excited to share a mouth-watering treat that’s sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Get ready to indulge in the heavenly flavors of our Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This cake is perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a cozy weekend treat. Its moist texture and creamy frosting make it truly irresistible!

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Cake
• For the Cream Cheese Frosting
• How to Make Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
• Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
• Step 4: Mix Flour Mixture and Buttermilk
• Step 5: Bake the Cake
• Step 6: Make the Frosting
• Step 7: Frost the Cake
• How to Serve Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
• With Fresh Fruit
• Pairing with Ice Cream
• Coffee or Tea
• Decorative Elements
• How to Perfect Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
• Best Side Dishes for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
• Reheating Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
• How do I make my cream cheese frosting fluffier?
• Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my banana cake?
• What should I do if my banana cake sinks in the middle?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and rich cream cheese frosting creates a taste that is simply heavenly.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy this cake as a dessert or pair it with coffee for a delightful afternoon snack.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday party or a casual get-together, this cake will impress your guests.
• Moist and Tender: Thanks to the bananas, this cake stays moist for days, making it great for meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

Before we start making our Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather the essential tools. Using the right equipment makes the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×13 inch baking pan
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric mixer: Ensures that your batter is mixed evenly and achieves the right fluffiness.
• Mixing bowls: Using multiple bowls allows you to separate dry and wet ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Cake

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a bowl, mix together:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In another large bowl, cream together:
Beat together the softened butter (1/2 cup) and granulated sugar (1 cup) until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Stir in vanilla extract (1 teaspoon).

Step 4: Mix Flour Mixture and Buttermilk

Add the flour mixture and buttermilk (1/2 cup) alternately into the creamed mixture. Start with the flour mixture and end with it. Gently fold in mashed bananas (3 ripe bananas).

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 6: Make the Frosting

To prepare your cream cheese frosting:
Beat together softened cream cheese (8 oz) and unsalted butter (1/2 cup) until smooth.
Gradually add powdered sugar (3 cups) and vanilla extract (1 teaspoon), beating until creamy.

Step 7: Frost the Cake

Once your cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Enjoy your delicious Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!

How to Serve Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Serving your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate the dessert experience. It’s perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or just a simple family treat. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to make your cake shine.

With Fresh Fruit

• Banana Slices: Add fresh banana slices on top of the frosting for an extra burst of flavor.
• Berries: Serve with strawberries or blueberries for a pop of color and tartness.

Pairing with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream complements the cake’s sweetness perfectly.
• Caramel Swirl Ice Cream: This adds a rich caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas.

Coffee or Tea

• Brewed Coffee: The bitterness of coffee balances the sweetness of the cake, making it a great pairing.
• Herbal Tea: Choose a light herbal tea for a refreshing contrast to the rich frosting.

Decorative Elements

• Chopped Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
• Chocolate Shavings: A sprinkle of chocolate shavings can add visual appeal and richness to the dish.

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How to Perfect Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

To achieve the best results when making your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, follow these helpful tips. They will ensure that your cake is moist, flavorful, and beautifully frosted.

• Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure that your butter, cream cheese, and eggs are at room temperature for smoother mixing.
• Do Not Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cake tender and fluffy.
• Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake to cool completely to prevent the frosting from melting off.
• Storage Tips: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth and depth of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Pairing side dishes with your Banana Cake can enhance its flavor profile and create a balanced meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and freshness alongside sweet cake.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a creamy contrast that complements the cake’s texture.
3. Chocolate Pudding: Rich chocolate pudding provides a decadent side that contrasts nicely with banana flavors.
4. Lemon Sorbet: This refreshing sorbet offers a zesty finish after indulging in sweet cake.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the dessert.
6. Chai-Spiced Nuts: Spiced nuts offer crunch and warmth, making them an excellent pairing option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when making a Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for a perfect cake.

• Using unripe bananas: Using bananas that aren’t ripe can lead to a cake that lacks the sweet flavor and moisture you want. Always use overripe bananas for the best taste.

• Not measuring ingredients accurately: Baking is a science, and incorrect measurements can ruin your cake. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.

• Skipping the creaming step: Creaming butter and sugar together is essential for incorporating air into your batter. Don’t rush this step; mix until light and fluffy.

• Opening the oven door too soon: Checking on your cake too early can cause it to sink in the middle. Wait at least 20 minutes before peeking.

• Frosting a warm cake: If you frost your cake while it’s still warm, the frosting will melt and slide off. Always ensure your cake is completely cooled before frosting.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and place the slice on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 15-20 seconds or until warm.
• Stovetop: Place the slice in a skillet over low heat, covered, for about 5 minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?

You can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may make the cake denser. Consider using half all-purpose and half whole wheat for better results.

How do I make my cream cheese frosting fluffier?

To achieve fluffier frosting, ensure both your cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. Whip them well together to incorporate air.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my banana cake?

Absolutely! Adding walnuts or chocolate chips can enhance flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter gently before baking.

What should I do if my banana cake sinks in the middle?

A sunken center usually indicates that there was too much liquid or not enough flour. Be sure to measure ingredients accurately next time!

Final Thoughts

This Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon. It’s perfect for any occasion and will surely impress your family and friends. Give this recipe a try—you’ll love it!