Name: Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-483890H59M24S
Total time: PT-483890H59M24S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup sour cream; 8 oz cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting combines two beloved treats: the dense, flavorful banana bread and the creamy, rich frosting of a traditional cake. The moist texture of the banana bread cake pairs perfectly with the smooth, tangy frosting, creating a dessert that's both comforting and decadent. The added cream cheese frosting gives this banana bread a sophisticated touch, making it a delightful treat for any occasion.

Not only is this cake delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to make. It doesn’t require a lot of ingredients or complicated steps, making it a perfect go-to recipe for beginners and experienced bakers alike. Plus, the smell of freshly baked banana bread wafting through your home is sure to add to the experience.

Ingredients

3 ripe bananas
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon salt
½ cup sour cream

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9x13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
In a large bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
In a separate bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, and continue to beat until fluffy.
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top.
Slice and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12-16
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 45-50 minutes

Variations

Add-ins: You can mix in chocolate chips, walnuts, or pecans for extra texture and flavor.
Spices: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for a hint of spice to complement the banana flavor.
Gluten-free option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.
Vegan version: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese for a vegan version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover banana bread cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store it longer, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Freezing: This cake freezes well. Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To thaw, simply leave at room temperature for a few hours or microwave for a few seconds.
Reheating: If you prefer to eat the cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes, frozen bananas work great for banana bread cake. Just thaw them out before mashing.

2. Can I make this cake without cream cheese frosting?

Absolutely! If you prefer, you can enjoy the banana bread cake without frosting or use a simple glaze instead.

3. Can I make this recipe in a different-sized pan?

Yes, you can use a round or square cake pan, but keep in mind that the baking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the pan.

4. How can I make the cake more moist?

Ensure your bananas are very ripe and mashed well. Adding sour cream, as the recipe suggests, also helps make the cake moist.

5. Can I use margarine instead of butter?

Yes, margarine can be used as a substitute for butter, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

6. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, this cake stores well and can be made ahead of time. Just be sure to frost it once it has cooled completely.

7. Can I add nuts to the cake batter?

Yes, you can add walnuts or pecans to the batter for added crunch and flavor.

8. What if I don’t have sour cream?

You can substitute sour cream with plain yogurt or buttermilk for a similar effect.

9. Can I use a hand mixer instead of a stand mixer for the frosting?

Yes, a hand mixer works perfectly fine for making the cream cheese frosting.

10. How can I make the frosting fluffier?

Make sure your cream cheese and butter are softened before mixing, and beat the frosting on high speed for a few minutes until it becomes light and fluffy.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a sweet, moist, and indulgent treat that takes the classic banana bread to the next level. With its delicious flavor and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether served as a dessert, snack, or breakfast treat, this cake is sure to be a hit with anyone who tries it. So go ahead and give this recipe a try, and enjoy the comforting flavors of banana bread with a rich, creamy twist!