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. This cake is perfect for various occasions, from birthday parties to casual family gatherings, and it boasts a moist texture and rich flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: The steps are simple, making it a great choice for both novice and experienced bakers.
- Deliciously Flavorful: Ripe bananas combined with creamy frosting create a delightful taste experience.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a dessert or snack, perfect for any time of day.
- Perfect for Celebrations: Ideal for birthdays, potlucks, or just because—this cake fits any occasion.
- Make Ahead: The cake can be baked in advance and frosted later, saving you time on busy days.
Tools and Preparation
To make your baking experience seamless, gather the essential tools you’ll need. Having the right equipment will help you create the best Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting effortlessly.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric Mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together for a light texture.
- Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients without overflow or mess.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensure accuracy in your recipe for consistent results every time.
Ingredients
For the 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 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: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well mixed.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, beat together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture and buttermilk into the creamed mixture. Start and end with the flour mixture. Gently fold in the mashed bananas until everything is just combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow it to cool completely before frosting.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
While waiting for the cake to cool, prepare your cream cheese frosting. Beat together softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar along with vanilla extract while mixing until creamy.
Step 7: Frosting
Once your cake is completely cooled, spread an even layer of frosting over the top using a spatula. Serve slices of this delicious Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting at room temperature or chilled!
How to Serve Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate the overall experience. With a few creative touches, you can impress your guests and make your dessert table truly special.
Pair with Coffee
- A warm cup of coffee complements the sweetness of the banana cake beautifully. Try a rich espresso or a smooth latte for an indulgent treat.
Add Fresh Fruit
- Slices of fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or even more bananas can enhance the flavors. They add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the frosting.
Ice Cream Delight
- Serve a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream alongside your cake. The cold ice cream pairs wonderfully with the moist banana cake and creamy frosting.
Create a Dessert Platter
- Arrange slices of banana cake on a platter along with other desserts like brownies or cookies. This variety allows guests to sample different flavors.
Garnish with Nuts
- Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for added crunch and flavor. Nuts enhance the banana taste while adding texture.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of warm caramel sauce over each slice adds an extra layer of sweetness. It beautifully complements the cream cheese frosting.
How to Perfect Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, and cream cheese are at room temperature for easier mixing.
- Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined when adding dry ingredients to keep your cake tender and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the center is done; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs.
- Cool Completely: Ensure your cake is completely cooled before frosting to prevent melting.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days for maximum freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic choice that adds a cold contrast to the warm cake.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful mix of seasonal fruits provides freshness that balances the sweetness.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich and creamy, this decadent dessert pairs nicely with banana flavors.
- Coffee Crumble Cookies: These crunchy cookies add texture and complement coffee drinks served alongside.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds fluffiness that pairs well with dense cake.
- Lemon Sorbet: The tartness cuts through the richness of the cake, offering a refreshing palate cleanser.
- Caramelized Pineapple: Sweet and slightly tangy, this tropical fruit enhances the banana flavor beautifully.
- Chia Seed Pudding: A healthy option that adds creaminess without overpowering the main dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, small mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
- Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix until ingredients are just combined for a fluffy texture.
- Using unripe bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture. Ensure your bananas have plenty of brown spots for the best flavor.
- Skipping the buttermilk: Buttermilk keeps the cake moist and adds a slight tang. Don’t substitute it with regular milk for optimal results.
- Not letting the cake cool completely: Frosting a warm cake can melt the frosting. Allow your cake to cool completely before adding the cream cheese frosting.
- Ignoring measurement accuracy: Baking is a science, so use precise measurements for ingredients. A kitchen scale can help ensure accuracy.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Item: Store leftover banana cake in an airtight container.
- Duration: It will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
- Tip: Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.
Freezing Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Item: Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil.
- Duration: The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
- Tip: Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Reheating Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes. This helps retain moisture.
- Microwave: Heat a slice on medium power for about 15-20 seconds. Check frequently to avoid overheating.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet on low heat, cover with a lid, and warm for about 5 minutes or until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding our Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe:
Can I replace cream cheese frosting with whipped cream?
Yes, you can use whipped cream instead of cream cheese frosting if you prefer a lighter topping!
How do I make Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting gluten-free?
Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup.
What can I add to my Banana Cake?
You can incorporate nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon for added flavor in your banana cake!
How long does Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting last?
The cake stays fresh for up to four days in the refrigerator when stored properly.
Final Thoughts
This delightful Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts or chocolate chips based on your preferences. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just because, this recipe is sure to please everyone. Try it out today and enjoy every bite!
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the irresistible flavors of our Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. This moist cake, infused with ripe bananas, is topped with a creamy and luscious frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday or enjoying a casual family gathering, this dessert will quickly become a favorite among friends and loved ones. Easy to make and even easier to enjoy, this recipe allows you to impress without the stress. Perfect for any time of day, serve it up as an afternoon snack or after dinner delight.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until fluffy; add eggs and vanilla.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients and buttermilk; fold in mashed bananas.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth; mix in powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Once the cake is cooled, frost generously and serve.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
