Description
Imagine the comforting taste of classic banana bread, but with a twist—a light, moist cake topped with a dreamy cream cheese frosting. This banana bread cake takes the familiar banana bread flavors to the next level. It’s tender and subtly sweet with a tangy, rich frosting that turns it into an irresistible dessert for any occasion. Whether it’s a cozy family gathering or a sweet mid-week treat, this banana bread cake hits all the right notes.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed (the riper, the better for flavor)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (adds extra moisture and a slight tang)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare for Baking
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes on medium speed. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Add the Bananas and Sour Cream
Gently fold the mashed bananas and sour cream into the wet mixture until smooth. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep that fluffy texture.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Avoid over-mixing as this can make the cake dense.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
Step 7: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.
Step 8: Frost and Serve
Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. Slice into squares, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
- Texture Tip: Over-mixing the batter can result in a dense cake, so stir gently when combining the wet and dry ingredients.
- Make-Ahead Option: This cake can be made a day ahead and kept at room temperature (covered) without the frosting. Frost before serving.
- Storage: Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.