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, family gatherings, or simply as an afternoon snack. The moist banana cake paired with luscious cream cheese frosting makes for an unbeatable combination that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The sweetness of ripe bananas combined with tangy cream cheese creates a delightful taste.
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this cake accessible for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for any occasion, from casual get-togethers to elegant celebrations.
- Moist and Delicious: The bananas keep the cake incredibly moist, ensuring it stays fresh for days.
- Customizable Options: Add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist on this classic recipe.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth process. Having the right equipment will help you create the perfect banana cake.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients effectively without making a mess.
- Electric mixer: Saves time and effort when creaming butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Rubber spatula: Helps scrape down sides of bowls and fold in ingredients gently.
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 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 dry ingredients well to ensure even distribution of leavening agents.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
Beat until light and fluffy. Add in:
2 large eggs, one at a time,
and stir in:
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Add the flour mixture and:
1/2 cup buttermilk
to the creamed mixture. Start by adding some flour, then buttermilk, alternating between them until fully incorporated. Finally, fold in:
3 ripe bananas, mashed
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.
Step 6: Make the Frosting
To create your cream cheese frosting, beat together:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
and
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
Mix until smooth. Gradually add:
3 cups powdered sugar
and
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Continue beating until creamy.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
Once your banana 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
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in many ways. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening at home, these serving suggestions will enhance your experience.
For a Classic Dessert Experience
- Serve with fresh fruit – Add slices of strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing touch.
- Pair with vanilla ice cream – The creamy ice cream perfectly complements the cake’s flavors.
For Special Occasions
- Garnish with nuts – Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for added crunch and flavor.
- Decorate with chocolate shavings – This adds a rich, elegant finish to your cake.
For Afternoon Tea
- Slice into small squares – Perfect for tea parties or brunch gatherings.
- Serve on decorative plates – Presentation makes a difference; use your prettiest dishes!
For Kids’ Parties
- Cut into fun shapes – Use cookie cutters to create fun designs that kids will love.
- Add colorful sprinkles – Brighten up the cake and make it more appealing to young guests.
How to Perfect Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Creating the perfect Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your cake turns out great every time.
- Use ripe bananas – The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
- Room temperature ingredients – Ensure butter and eggs are at room temperature for better mixing.
- Don’t overmix the batter – Mix just until combined to keep your cake fluffy and tender.
- Cool completely before frosting – Frosting a warm cake can cause it to melt and lose its shape.
- Adjust sugar based on sweetness – If your bananas are very sweet, consider reducing the sugar in the recipe slightly.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing side dishes with your Banana Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad – A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
- Whipped Cream – Light and airy, whipped cream adds extra richness without overwhelming flavors.
- Chocolate Sauce – Drizzle warm chocolate sauce over slices for an indulgent treat.
- Coffee or Tea – A warm cup of coffee or herbal tea pairs wonderfully with dessert cakes.
- Yogurt Parfait – Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a balanced snack alongside your cake.
- Cheese Platter – A selection of mild cheeses complements the sweetness while adding savory notes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not Using Ripe Bananas: Failing to use ripe bananas can lead to a less flavorful cake. Choose bananas that are brown and soft for the best sweetness.
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can create a dense texture instead of a light and fluffy cake. Mix until just combined for optimal results.
- Skipping the Cream Cheese Softening: Using cold cream cheese will result in a lumpy frosting. Always soften it at room temperature before mixing.
- Ignoring Baking Time: Each oven is different, so relying only on baking time without checking for doneness can lead to an undercooked or overbaked cake. Use a toothpick to test doneness.
- Neglecting Storage Tips: Improper storage can dry out your cake. Ensure you follow proper storage methods to keep it moist and delicious.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container.
- It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap slices of the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months for optimal taste.
Reheating Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting:
Can I use whole wheat flour instead?
Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour, but this may change the texture slightly. Start with half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour.
How do I make the frosting less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, consider using less powdered sugar or adding more cream cheese. You can also incorporate a pinch of salt.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Adding walnuts or chocolate chips can enhance your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Just fold them into the batter before baking.
What other flavors pair well with banana cake?
Spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can complement banana flavor wonderfully. Experiment with these additions in your batter!
Final Thoughts
This Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, spices, or even swapping the frosting for something different. We encourage you to give this recipe a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful taste of our Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This easy-to-make dessert combines the sweetness of ripe bananas and creamy frosting, creating a moist cake that’s perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual afternoon snacks. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, even novice bakers can create this scrumptious treat.
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, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the 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.
- In another bowl, cream butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time and stir in vanilla.
- Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the creamed mixture, then fold in mashed bananas.
- Pour batter into the pan and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth, gradually adding powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Once cooled, frost the cake evenly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (80g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
