Introduction to Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Welcome to the world of comfort baking! If you’re like me, juggling a busy schedule while trying to whip up something delightful, then this Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is your new best friend. It’s the kind of recipe that wraps you in a warm hug, perfect for any occasion—be it a family gathering or a simple weeknight treat. With just a handful of ingredients and a little love, you can create a moist, flavorful cake that will impress your loved ones and satisfy your sweet tooth. Let’s dive in!
Why You’ll Love This Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a game-changer for busy moms and professionals alike. It’s incredibly easy to make, taking just about 50 minutes from start to finish. The taste? Oh, it’s a delightful blend of sweet bananas and creamy frosting that dances on your palate. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Trust me, you’ll be coming back for seconds!
Ingredients for Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delicious masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Ripe Bananas: The star of the show! Choose bananas that are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Unsalted Butter: This adds richness and moisture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetness is key! It helps create that lovely golden crust.
- Large Eggs: They bind the ingredients together and add moisture. Room temperature eggs work best.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash of this adds a warm, inviting flavor that complements the bananas beautifully.
- All-Purpose Flour: The backbone of the cake, providing structure. You can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- Baking Soda: This is your leavening agent, helping the cake rise and become fluffy.
- Salt: Just a pinch enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
- Sour Cream: This secret ingredient adds moisture and a slight tang, making the cake incredibly tender.
- Cream Cheese: The star of the frosting! It gives that creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: This sweetens the frosting and gives it that smooth, spreadable consistency.
- Vanilla Extract (for frosting): A little extra vanilla in the frosting elevates the flavor even more.
For those who like to experiment, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter for an extra layer of flavor. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!
How to Make Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s warming up, grab a 9×13 inch baking pan and grease it well. This will ensure your Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting comes out easily and doesn’t stick. Trust me, no one wants a cake disaster!
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer or stand mixer to whip it until it’s light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it incorporates air, making your cake tender and delightful. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks pale and creamy!
Step 3: Mix in Wet Ingredients
Now, it’s time to add the fun stuff! Toss in the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. The bananas will add moisture and sweetness, making this the best banana cake with frosting you’ve ever tasted. Don’t be shy—mix it well!
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the baking soda and salt throughout the flour. It’s a simple yet important step that ensures your cake rises beautifully and has a balanced flavor. Set this bowl aside for now.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream. Start with a bit of dry, then a bit of sour cream, and repeat until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix! This will keep your Amazing Banana Bread Cake light and fluffy, just how we like it.
Step 6: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Pop it in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait!
Step 7: Cool and Frost
Once baked, let the cake cool completely in the pan. This is key! While it cools, beat together the softened cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Once the cake is cool, spread that luscious frosting on top. Your Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is ready to shine!
Tips for Success
- Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Don’t overmix the batter; it should be just combined for a light texture.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
- For a fun twist, add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days—if it lasts that long!
Equipment Needed
- Mixing Bowls: A set of various sizes is ideal. You can also use any large bowl you have on hand.
- Hand Mixer or Stand Mixer: For creaming butter and sugar. A whisk works too, but it’ll take more effort!
- Baking Pan: A 9×13 inch pan is perfect. If you don’t have one, a similar-sized dish will do.
- Spatula: Essential for smoothing the batter and frosting. A rubber spatula is my favorite!
Variations of Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
- Chocolate Lovers: Stir in chocolate chips or chunks for a rich, decadent twist that pairs beautifully with the cream cheese frosting.
- Spiced Up: Incorporate a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the bananas.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this cake suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
- Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use a plant-based butter alternative to create a vegan-friendly cake.
Serving Suggestions for Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Pair with Coffee: A warm slice of cake alongside a steaming cup of coffee makes for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve with sliced strawberries or a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich cake.
- Presentation: Dust with powdered sugar or add a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top for a beautiful finish.
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side elevates this dessert to a whole new level!
FAQs about Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen bananas work great in this Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Just thaw them first and mash them well. They’ll add the same delicious flavor and moisture!
How do I store leftover banana bread cake?
To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to 5 days, but I doubt it will last that long with how tasty it is!
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake the cake a day in advance. Just frost it right before serving to keep that cream cheese frosting fresh and creamy. It’s perfect for prepping for a busy week!
What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use Greek yogurt or mascarpone cheese. They’ll give you a creamy texture, but the flavor will be slightly different from traditional cream cheese frosting.
Is this the best banana cake with frosting?
I’d say so! The combination of moist banana bread and rich cream cheese frosting creates a delightful treat that’s hard to resist. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s a favorite!
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about baking this Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s not just about the delicious flavors; it’s about the memories created in the kitchen. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet moment with a slice and a cup of tea, this cake brings joy to any occasion. The aroma wafting through your home, the laughter around the table, and the smiles as everyone takes a bite—these are the moments that make life sweeter. So, roll up your sleeves and let this delightful recipe become a cherished part of your baking adventures!
PrintAmazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A deliciously moist banana bread cake topped with creamy cream cheese frosting, perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the sour cream, until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
- For the frosting, beat the cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
- Spread the cream cheese frosting over the cooled banana bread cake and serve.
Notes
- Make sure the bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
- This cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- For added flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
Keywords: Amazing Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, Best banana cake with frosting