Banana cake with cream cheese frosting is the perfect sweet treat that tantalizes your taste buds with its rich, moist texture and subtle sweetness. Imagine a slice of this fluffy cake melting in your mouth, adorned with a luscious cream cheese frosting that dances on the tongue like an elegant ballet. perfect side for banana cake.
Every time I whip up this delightful banana cake, I’m transported back to my grandma’s kitchen, where the aroma of ripe bananas wafted through the air like a warm hug. It’s the kind of dessert that brings smiles to faces and sparks joy at gatherings, making it ideal for birthdays, potlucks, or just an ordinary Tuesday when you need a little pick-me-up.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This banana cake is incredibly easy to prepare, even for novice bakers looking to impress.
- The flavor profile combines sweet and tangy notes from ripe bananas and cream cheese frosting.
- Visually, it’s a showstopper with its golden hue and creamy frosting.
- Versatile enough to enjoy on its own, it also pairs beautifully with coffee or tea.
Ingredients for banana cake with cream cheese frosting
For more inspiration, check out this strawberry cheesecake cookies recipe.
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ripe Bananas: Aim for about 3-4 large bananas that are spotty for maximum sweetness; they should be overripe for the best flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Use about 2 cups of all-purpose flour for structure; sift it before measuring to avoid clumps.
- Sugar: A mix of granulated and brown sugar (about 1 cup each) gives sweetness and depth; brown sugar adds moisture.
- Baking Soda: Just one teaspoon will help your cake rise beautifully; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
- Eggs: Two large eggs act as binding agents; they should be at room temperature.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of pure vanilla extract (1 teaspoon) enhances the flavors wonderfully.
For the Frosting:
- Cream Cheese: Use an 8-ounce block of softened cream cheese for that rich flavor; ensure it’s at room temperature for easy mixing.
- Unsalted Butter: Half a cup of softened butter adds richness; make sure it’s soft enough to blend smoothly.
- Powdered Sugar: About two cups will give your frosting that perfect sweetness without being gritty; sift it before use.
- Milk: A tablespoon or two of milk helps achieve a smooth consistency in your frosting; add more if needed.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make banana cake with cream cheese frosting
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans or line them with parchment paper to ensure easy removal after baking.
Step 2: Mash Those Bananas
In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. You can use a fork or potato masher—whatever floats your boat! Set aside once you’re done mashing those beauties.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, beat together the eggs, sugar (both kinds), vanilla extract, and melted butter until everything looks like a creamy dream. Add the mashed bananas into this mixture and stir until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In yet another bowl (yes, we’re creating quite the dishwashing situation here), whisk together the flour and baking soda. Gradually add this dry mix into your wet mixture while stirring gently until just combined—don’t overmix or you’ll end up with tough cake!
Step 5: Bake Your Cake
Divide the batter evenly between your prepared pans. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in pans for about ten minutes before transferring them onto wire racks.
Step 6: Make That Cream Cheese Frosting
While your cakes cool down, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter in a bowl until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk until you reach your desired consistency—smooth yet spreadable.
To serve, stack one layer of banana cake on a plate, slather on some creamy frosting, then top it off with the second layer. Finish by coating the top and sides with more frosting for that Instagram-worthy presentation!
Enjoy every bite of your banana cake with cream cheese frosting as you reminisce about family gatherings or indulge in some well-deserved self-care after a long day!
You Must Know
- This delicious banana cake with cream cheese frosting is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a great way to use up overripe bananas.
- The fragrant aroma of baking will fill your kitchen, making it a cozy spot for family and friends.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by preheating the oven to 350°F (175°C). Mash those ripe bananas first for easy mixing, then cream together sugar and butter while your flour and baking powder are mixed separately. Combine everything for a smooth batter before pouring it into the pan.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added nutrition or toss in walnuts or chocolate chips for extra texture. You could also use different spices like nutmeg or cinnamon for a unique spin.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover banana cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for about a week. To reheat, microwave slices briefly or enjoy them cold with frosting still intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum flavor and sweetness—brown spots are your best friend!
- Don’t overmix the batter; this keeps your cake light and fluffy.
- Finally, let your cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
Sometimes I bake this banana cake just to see my kids’ faces light up when they take their first bite. The joy is contagious, and their happy giggles make every mess worth it!
FAQs :
What ingredients do I need for banana cake with cream cheese frosting?
To make banana cake with cream cheese frosting, gather ripe bananas, all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, baking soda, vanilla extract, and salt for the cake. For the frosting, you will need cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. The balance of moist banana flavor and creamy frosting creates a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
How do I store leftover banana cake with cream cheese frosting?
To store leftover banana cake with cream cheese frosting, place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap. Keep it in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. The cake can last for about 3 to 5 days when refrigerated. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing individual slices wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
Can I make banana cake with cream cheese frosting ahead of time?
Yes, you can make banana cake with cream cheese frosting ahead of time. Bake the cake and let it cool completely before wrapping it in plastic wrap. You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and frost it just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
What variations can I try for my banana cake with cream cheese frosting?
You can explore various variations for your banana cake with cream cheese frosting. Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for extra crunch. Consider mixing in chocolate chips or shredded coconut for a different flavor profile. delicious dipping sauce You can also experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the taste and aroma of this delicious dessert.
Conclusion for banana cake with cream cheese frosting :
Banana cake with cream cheese frosting is a delightful dessert that balances moistness and creamy richness perfectly. By using simple ingredients like ripe bananas and essential baking staples, you create a treat that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. cream cheese desserts and snacks Whether enjoyed at a family gathering or as a special indulgence at home, this recipe is sure to impress everyone who tastes it. Remember to store leftovers properly to savor this delicious dessert even longer!

Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
Banana cake with cream cheese frosting is a heavenly dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with rich, creamy frosting. This moist cake is incredibly easy to make and perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to cozy family gatherings. Each bite offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures, making it a sure crowd-pleaser. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this irresistible sweet treat that’s bound to create cherished memories!
Ingredients
- 3–4 large ripe bananas (about 1 ½ cups mashed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 ounces cream cheese (softened)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- Milk (1-2 tablespoons as needed)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two round cake pans.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth and set aside.
- In another bowl, beat together eggs, both sugars, vanilla extract, and melted butter until creamy. Stir in mashed bananas.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together flour and baking soda. Gradually add to wet ingredients until just combined.
- Divide the batter between prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool in pans for ten minutes before transferring to wire racks.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter together until fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and milk until desired consistency is reached.
- Frost cooled cake layers and serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Use very ripe bananas for optimal sweetness. Add nuts or chocolate chips for variations. Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days.