Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
2. Make the Banana Cake Batter
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the mashed bananas, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix to keep the cake light and fluffy.
3. Bake the Cake
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
4. Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- In a medium bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add the vanilla extract, then gradually mix in the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until you reach your desired sweetness.
- If the frosting is too thick, add a little milk, one tablespoon at a time, until the consistency is perfect for spreading.
5. Frost the Cake
- Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the cooled banana bread cake. Slice and serve!
Tips for Making the Perfect Banana Bread Cake
- Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
- Chill the Frosting: If the frosting becomes too soft, refrigerate it for 10-15 minutes before spreading it over the cake.
- Add Extra Texture: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for some added crunch.
Storing Banana Bread Cake
- Room Temperature: This cake can be kept covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
- Freezer: Wrap slices of the cake (without frosting) in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Warm with a Scoop of Ice Cream: Serve the cake slightly warmed with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a truly indulgent treat.
- Sprinkle with Chopped Nuts: For an added touch, sprinkle the top of the frosting with chopped walnuts or pecans.
- Drizzle with Caramel Sauce: Add an extra layer of decadence by drizzling some homemade caramel sauce over the frosting.
Why This Cake is the Perfect Dessert
The Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting brings together the comforting familiarity of banana bread and the elegance of a frosted cake. Its moist texture and rich, creamy topping make it the ultimate dessert for banana lovers. The addition of cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that balances perfectly with the natural flavors of the banana, creating a delicious harmony in every bite.
Conclusion
If you’re a fan of banana bread, you’re going to fall in love with this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Its easy preparation and delightful flavor make it a go-to recipe for celebrations, family gatherings, or just satisfying your sweet cravings. Give this recipe a try, and it will soon become one of your favorite baked goods to make and share!
