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 birthdays, potlucks, or simply as a sweet ending to any meal. Its moist texture, combined with the rich cream cheese frosting, makes it irresistible. Let’s create something truly scrumptious together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This banana cake is simple and requires minimal preparation time, making it perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and creamy frosting gives this cake a unique taste that is both comforting and indulgent.
- Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a dessert for special occasions or as a delightful afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather your tools. Having everything prepared ensures a smooth baking experience.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Baking pan (9×13 inch)
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar easy and efficient.
- Baking pan: A good quality pan ensures even baking for the perfect texture.
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 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.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix these ingredients well and set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, cream together:
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1 cup granulated sugar
Beat until light and fluffy. Add in:
2 large eggs, one at a time.
Stir in:
1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Gradually add the flour mixture and:
1/2 cup buttermilk
to the creamed mixture, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Fold in:
The mashed bananas gently until just combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
To make the frosting, beat together until smooth:
8 oz cream cheese
1/2 cup unsalted butter
Gradually add:
3 cups powdered sugar
and:
1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
Beat until creamy.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
Once your cake is completely cooled, spread the frosting evenly over the top. 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 your dessert experience. Here are some creative suggestions to make it even more delightful for you and your guests.
Pair with Fresh Fruits
- Berries: Strawberries and blueberries offer a fresh contrast to the sweet richness of the cake.
- Banana Slices: Enhance the banana flavor by adding fresh banana slices on top of each serving.
Add a Scoop of Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that complements the banana cake beautifully, adding creaminess with every bite.
- Caramel Ice Cream: For an indulgent twist, try pairing it with caramel ice cream for an extra layer of sweetness.
Drizzle with Sauce
- Chocolate Sauce: A drizzle of warm chocolate sauce adds a decadent touch that chocolate lovers will appreciate.
- Caramel Sauce: Warm caramel sauce drizzled over the top creates a rich and satisfying flavor combination.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Espresso: A shot of espresso pairs perfectly, balancing the sweetness of the cake.
- Herbal Tea: Opt for a calming herbal tea for a lighter pairing that complements the cake’s flavors.
How to Perfect Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and cream cheese are at room temperature for better mixing and texture.
- Do Not Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow your cake to cool completely before frosting to prevent melting and ensure clean slices.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
When enjoying Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, consider pairing it with these delightful side dishes. Each option enhances the overall dessert experience.
- Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits compliments the sweetness of the cake.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit provides a light yet satisfying contrast to the rich cake.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses adds a savory balance that contrasts well with sweet desserts.
- Nut Mix: A simple mix of nuts offers crunch and healthy fats to round out your dessert table.
- Chocolate-Covered Pretzels: The salty-sweet combination is irresistible alongside your banana cake.
- Pineapple Chunks: Fresh pineapple adds a tropical twist that works harmoniously with banana flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:
- Not using ripe bananas: Ripe bananas bring out the natural sweetness and flavor. Choose bananas that are heavily speckled or brown for the best results.
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
- Forgetting to preheat the oven: A properly preheated oven ensures even baking. Always preheat your oven before placing the cake inside.
- Skipping the frosting chilling time: If you rush the frosting, it may be too soft to spread evenly. Chill it for a bit to achieve a better consistency.
- Using cold ingredients: Cold butter or eggs can affect how well they mix. Let your ingredients come to room temperature before you start baking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
- Keep the cake separate from frosting if possible to maintain texture.
Freezing Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil for up to 3 months.
- Label the package with the date for reference.
Reheating Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, covering it, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about our Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe:
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but it may change the texture slightly. The cake might be denser.
How do I make cream cheese frosting thicker?
To thicken cream cheese frosting, simply add more powdered sugar until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I add nuts to my Banana Cake?
Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch and flavor contrast.
How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?
Make sure to grease and flour your baking pan thoroughly. You can also line it with parchment paper for extra protection.
Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can use a gluten-free flour blend as a substitute for all-purpose flour if needed.
Final Thoughts
Our Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from casual family gatherings to more formal celebrations. We encourage you to try this recipe and experience its delightful flavors!
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in our Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, a delightful dessert that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with luscious cream cheese frosting. This moist and tender cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a birthday celebration, a potluck gathering, or simply an afternoon treat. With minimal preparation required, this recipe is accessible for bakers of all skill levels. The rich flavors and comforting texture make this cake a favorite among family and friends. Get ready to impress your loved ones with this scrumptious homemade delight that’s sure to leave everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 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
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 8 oz cream cheese
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream together butter and sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time and vanilla.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients alternately with buttermilk; fold in mashed bananas.
- Pour batter into the pan and bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth; gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Frost cooled cake evenly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 23g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 35mg
