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. Perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a sweet craving, this cake is both easy to make and utterly delicious.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and creamy frosting creates a flavor explosion that will please any palate.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can achieve success.
- Versatile Dessert: This cake is perfect for various occasions, from casual brunches to festive celebrations.
- Moist and Tender: Thanks to the bananas and buttermilk, each slice is incredibly moist and fluffy.
- Delightful Cream Cheese Frosting: The tangy cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the sweetness of the banana cake.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather your tools. Having everything prepared will make the process smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer or whisk: Ensures thorough mixing for light and fluffy batter.
- Mixing bowls: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without spills.
Ingredients
For the Banana 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: Prepare the Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following dry ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix them together until evenly combined.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, beat together:
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
Continue beating until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the flour mixture and 1/2 cup buttermilk into the creamed mixture. Start with half of the flour mixture, then add buttermilk, followed by the remaining flour. Fold in the mashed bananas gently until just incorporated.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for about 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
Step 6: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat together:
8 oz cream cheese (softened)
1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
Mix until smooth. Gradually add in:
3 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Beat until creamy.
Step 7: Frost Your Cake
Once your cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top with a rubber spatula. Enjoy your delicious Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!
How to Serve Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your delicious Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate any occasion. Here are some creative ideas to delight your guests and enhance this delightful dessert.
Classic Slice
- Serve a generous slice of banana cake on a dessert plate, topped with a dollop of additional cream cheese frosting for an extra indulgent treat.
With Fresh Fruit
- Pair slices of banana cake with fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries or blueberries. This adds a refreshing contrast and enhances the flavors.
Ice Cream Delight
- Serve warm banana cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side. The creamy ice cream complements the rich flavors of the cake perfectly.
Coffee Companion
- Enjoy banana cake along with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The warm beverage balances the sweetness of the cake beautifully.
Festive Garnish
- Garnish each slice with chopped nuts or chocolate shavings for added texture and visual appeal. This makes your presentation even more inviting.
Mini Cupcakes
- Transform your banana cake into mini cupcakes topped with cream cheese frosting for an easy-to-eat option at parties or gatherings.
How to Perfect Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
To achieve that perfect Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, consider these essential tips:
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Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure eggs and butter are at room temperature for easier mixing, resulting in a smoother batter.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to prevent a dense texture. Overmixing can lead to tough cake.
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Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting; otherwise, the frosting may melt and slide off.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some tasty suggestions:
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds brightness and complements the sweetness of the cake.
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Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt with granola and honey for a creamy, crunchy contrast that balances the richness of the cake.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Classic cookies add variety and are always a favorite among guests when served alongside banana cake.
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Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats bring tropical flair and pair well with banana flavors.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, like brie or goat cheese, offers savory notes that balance sweetness.
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Pecan Pie Bars: Sweet and nutty bars create an indulgent spread, perfect for those who love desserts rich in flavor.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to slip up. Here are common mistakes and tips to avoid them.
- Ignoring ripe bananas – Using unripe bananas will affect the sweetness and flavor of your cake. Always choose ripe, brown bananas for the best results.
- Overmixing the batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined for a lighter texture.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately – Incorrect measurements can ruin your cake. Use a kitchen scale or standard measuring cups for precision.
- Skipping the cooling time – Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt. Allow the cake to cool completely before applying cream cheese frosting.
- Using cold cream cheese – Cold cream cheese won’t blend well, resulting in lumps. Make sure it’s softened at room temperature before mixing.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover banana cake tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Use an airtight container or wrap it well with plastic wrap.
Freezing Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- You can freeze slices of banana cake for up to 3 months.
- Wrap each slice individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the cake on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave – Heat individual slices on medium power for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop – Place a slice in a non-stick pan over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. Expect a denser cake.
What makes this Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting special?
The combination of moist banana cake paired with rich cream cheese frosting creates an irresistible dessert experience.
How do I know when my banana cake is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with few crumbs, your cake is ready!
Can I add nuts to my banana cake?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add great flavor and texture. Just fold them into the batter before baking.
How should I store leftover frosting?
Store any leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or even chocolate chips. Whether it’s for a birthday or just because, this recipe will surely bring joy to any occasion. We encourage you to try it out and enjoy every bite!
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of our Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting—a treat that perfectly marries moist banana cake with rich, creamy frosting. This recipe is ideal for birthdays, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a sweet touch. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip up this heavenly dessert with ease. Each slice offers a burst of flavor, enhanced by the tangy cream cheese frosting that complements the cake’s sweetness beautifully. Your friends and family will be asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- Powdered sugar (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In one bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar until fluffy, then add eggs and vanilla.
- Gradually combine wet and dry ingredients along with buttermilk and mashed bananas.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25–30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely before making frosting: beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, then add powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Frost the cooled cake evenly with the cream cheese mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
