Moist Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Moist Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulge in the delightful flavors of this moist banana cake, a testament to the sweet allure of ripe bananas and the lusciousness of cream cheese. The tender crumb of this cake is the result of perfectly mashed bananas, which not only add natural sweetness but also create a delightful texture. Topped with a rich and creamy cream cheese frosting, this cake is an irresistible treat for birthdays, family gatherings, or simply a cozy evening at home. With roots in classic American desserts from the 20th century, this banana cake evokes nostalgia and warmth, reminding us of the joy of home baking. Each bite is a celebration of flavors that will leave you yearning for another slice!

Servings: 12

Ingredients

  • Ripe bananas (3 large, mashed)
  • All-purpose flour (2 cups)
  • Baking powder (1 teaspoon)
  • Baking soda (1 teaspoon)
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon)
  • Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, softened)
  • Granulated sugar (1 1/2 cups)
  • Eggs (3 large)
  • Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons)
  • Buttermilk (1/2 cup)
  • Cream cheese (8 ounces, softened)
  • Powdered sugar (3 cups)
  • Vanilla extract (for frosting) (1 teaspoon)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking pan with butter or cooking spray.
  2. In a medium bowl, mash the ripe bananas with a fork until smooth and set aside.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
  5. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, beat in the 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract.
  6. Fold the mashed bananas into the butter mixture until fully integrated.
  7. Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the banana mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined to avoid overmixing.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack.
  11. While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy.
  12. Gradually add the powdered sugar and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, beating until the mixture is creamy and well combined.
  13. Once the cake is completely cool, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake.
  14. Slice, serve, and enjoy this delicious banana cake with your friends and family!

Dietary Information

Servings: 12 • Dish Type: Dessert • Prep Time: 20 minutes • Cook Time: 35 minutes • Calories: 350 • Fat: 15g • Carbs: 50g • Protein: 4g • Sodium: 200mg • Sugar: 30g