Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

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There’s something so comforting about banana bread, but when you elevate it to a cake and top it with luscious cream cheese frosting, it becomes an irresistible dessert. This Banana Bread Cake is the perfect balance of moist, banana-rich flavor and a creamy, tangy frosting that melts in your mouth. Whether it’s for a casual get-together, a birthday, or simply because you’re craving something sweet, this cake is bound to be a crowd-pleaser.

Moist and Flavorful Banana Bread Cake

Banana desserts are known for their rich flavor and texture, and this Banana Bread Cake is no exception. The cake itself is soft, moist, and speckled with tiny bursts of flavor from poppy seeds (optional but highly recommended!). The cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious layer of sweetness with just the right tang.

It’s easy to prepare, uses simple pantry ingredients, and is a great way to use overripe bananas. If you love banana bread but want to make it even more indulgent, this is the recipe for you.

No special occasion? No problem! This cake is just as perfect for a weekday treat as it is for a celebration. And let’s be honest – who could say no to a slice of banana bread cake layered with creamy frosting and topped with fresh banana slices?

Ingredients for Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Before diving into baking, let’s gather the simple ingredients needed for this moist and flavorful Banana Bread Cake. Each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect texture and taste.

Cake Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas – The riper, the better! They add natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – Provides the structure for the cake.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake just enough without overpowering the banana flavor.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) – Adds richness and moisture.
• 2 large eggs – Helps bind the cake and adds a fluffy texture.
• 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt – Ensures a tender, moist crumb.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor of the bananas.
• 1 tsp baking soda – Helps the cake rise perfectly.
• 1/2 tsp baking powder – Provides additional leavening for a light texture.
• 1/2 tsp salt – Balances the sweetness.
• 1 tbsp poppy seeds (optional) – Adds a delightful crunch and visual appeal.

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients:

• 8 oz cream cheese (softened) – The frosting star, providing a tangy, creamy base.
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter (softened) – Adds smoothness to the frosting.
• 2 cups powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting without being gritty.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract – Complements the tanginess of the cream cheese.
• Fresh banana slices – For decorating the top and adding extra banana flavor.

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How to Make Banana Bread Cake

Follow these steps to create the moist banana bread cake and whip up the creamy frosting for the perfect finishing touch.

Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in the granulated sugar, softened butter, eggs, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and vanilla extract until well combined.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and poppy seeds. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix!

Step 2: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
2. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1/2 cup at a time, mixing well after each addition.
3. Stir in the vanilla extract. Beat until the frosting is fluffy and easy to spread.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting on top.
2. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake evenly.
3. Decorate with fresh banana slices just before serving.

Baking Tips and Storage for Banana Bread Cake

To ensure your Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting comes out perfect every time, here’s everything you need to know about baking, serving, and storing it.

How Long to Bake Banana Bread Cake

The baking time will vary slightly depending on your oven and cake pan size, but here’s a general guideline:

• 8-inch round cake pans: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• 9×13-inch pan: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden and set.
• Cupcakes: Bake for 18-22 minutes for perfectly moist banana cupcakes.

Keep an eye on the cake as it bakes, and avoid overbaking to ensure the cake stays moist and tender.

How to Store the Cake

Proper storage will keep your cake tasting fresh and delicious:

• Refrigerator: Once frosted, store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The cream cheese frosting needs to stay chilled.
• Freezer: For longer storage, freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw the layers completely before assembling and frosting. You can also freeze slices of the frosted cake individually for an easy grab-and-go dessert.

Serving Tips

• Bring the cake to room temperature before serving to allow the frosting to soften slightly.
• Add fresh banana slices on top just before serving to prevent browning.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or tea for the ultimate indulgent treat!

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Key Tips for a Moist and Flavorful Cake

• Use extra ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor. The darker the peel, the better!
• Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake soft and tender.
• Don’t skip the sour cream or Greek yogurt—it’s the secret to a moist crumb.
• Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.
• If making the cake ahead, you can refrigerate it unfrosted, then frost it the day you plan to serve.

Whether you’re baking this for a special occasion or just because, these tips will help you achieve a bakery-worthy Banana Bread Cake every time!

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