Name: Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium bananas) (Best to use overly ripe bananas.); 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 tsp baking soda; 1/2 tsp salt; 1 cup sugar; 1/2 cup butter, softened (Can substitute half with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter version.); 2 eggs eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 8 oz cream cheese, softened (Dairy-free alternative can be used.); 1/4 cup butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 tsp vanilla extract

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A Sweet Treat for Any Occasion

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is one of those delightful desserts that brings a smile to your face at first bite. Imagine soft, moist cake infused with the sweet flavor of ripe bananas, topped with a rich and creamy frosting—it’s the perfect dessert for any occasion. I first made this cake during a weekend brunch with friends, and it quickly became a staple in my dessert repertoire. There’s something so comforting about the combination of banana bread and cream cheese frosting, making it ideal for everything from casual family get-togethers to special celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Dish

The charm of this Banana Bread Cake goes beyond just taste; it’s about the heartfelt moments it creates. Since it’s quick and straightforward to prepare, it’s perfect for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends. You’ll find this cake to be budget-friendly, using primarily pantry staples. Plus, it’s a great way to use up overripe bananas that often end up in the trash. And let’s not forget, it’s kid-approved! Watching little ones enjoy a slice can be one of the many reasons to bake this cake.

"This Banana Bread Cake was a hit at our family gathering! Everyone raved about the fluffy texture and creamy frosting. Definitely making it again!" – Sarah T.

Step-by-Step Overview

Creating this yummy Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a straightforward affair. The process begins with mashing bananas and mixing them with sugar and butter. Next, you’ll blend in eggs and vanilla—trust me, the aroma from this step alone is heavenly! While that comes together, you’ll whisk your dry ingredients in another bowl. Once combined, the batter goes into a greased cake pan. After a quick bake, the real fun begins with the frosting. It all comes together seamlessly, making it a satisfying project for both novice bakers and those with a bit more experience.

What You’ll Need

For the cake:

2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 medium bananas)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract

For the frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Ingredient Notes: If you prefer a lighter version, you can substitute half of the butter with unsweetened applesauce. For a lactose-free option, use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan with butter and flour.
In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, sugar, and softened butter. Mix well until blended.
Add the eggs and vanilla extract into the banana mixture. Beat until you achieve a smooth consistency.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Don’t overmix!
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy.
Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing well until everything is creamy.
Once the cake has cooled completely, frost it generously with the cream cheese frosting and serve.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

This Banana Bread Cake is delicious on its own, but if you want to elevate the experience, consider serving it with fresh berries or a drizzle of caramel sauce. Pair it with a hot cup of coffee or a chilled glass of milk for an afternoon delight. It also makes for a wonderful dessert at the end of a family meal, leaving your guests satisfied and happy.

Keeping Leftovers Fresh

To store your Banana Bread Cake, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. It can be kept at room temperature for 2-3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider refrigerating it; it will stay fresh for up to a week. Alternatively, you can slice the cake and freeze individual pieces for up to 3 months. Just make sure to wrap them well to avoid freezer burn.

Helpful Cooking Tips

For the best results, use overly ripe bananas as they provide the moisture and sweetness your cake needs. When mashing, aim for a smooth consistency, as this will help blend better with the other ingredients. Don’t rush the cooling process before frosting the cake; a warm cake can cause the frosting to melt off, resulting in a gooey mess.

Creative Twists

If you want to mix it up, try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts into the batter before baking. For a tropical twist, fold in some shredded coconut. You can also experiment with the frosting by incorporating different flavors like almond extract or a splash of orange zest for a refreshing kick.

Your Questions Answered

1. How long does it take to bake?
The banana bread cake typically takes about 25–30 minutes to bake. Always check with a toothpick for doneness!

2. Can I substitute the cream cheese?
Absolutely! You can use a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for a lactose-free option or even Greek yogurt for a lighter frosting.

3. What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?
If you’re in a hurry, place your unripe bananas in a brown paper bag. The ethylene gas they emit will speed up the ripening process.

This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a dessert you’ll want to keep in your baking arsenal. Its timeless flavor and texture make it perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!