Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Quick & Fluffy Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Sweet memories of grandma’s kitchen come flooding back with this irresistible banana bread cake that combines comfort and decadence.

Moist crumbs tell stories of ripe, fragrant bananas blended into a tender masterpiece.

Cream cheese frosting adds a luxurious layer of indulgence that makes every slice feel like a celebration.

Rich and velvety, this dessert transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary.

Delicate spices whisper warmth throughout each delectable bite.

When you slice into this heavenly creation, pure joy will dance across your taste buds.

Prepare to be enchanted by a dessert that feels like a warm, delicious hug.

What Makes Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting So Decadent

  • Comfort in Every Slice: Dive into a nostalgic treat that brings warmth and joy with its rich banana flavor and tender crumb.
  • Stress-Free Baking: Create a delightful dessert with simple ingredients and straightforward steps that even novice bakers can master confidently.
  • Crowd-Pleasing Dessert: Perfect for potlucks, family gatherings, or weekend treats that will have everyone asking for seconds and requesting the recipe.
  • Versatile Indulgence: Enjoy as a breakfast companion, afternoon snack, or elegant dessert that transforms basic ingredients into a memorable culinary experience.

Ingredients for Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Main Ingredients:
  • Bananas: Fresh, ripe bananas provide the signature flavor and moisture for the bread cake.
  • Flour: The essential base that gives structure to the banana bread.
  • Butter: Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb in the cake.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the banana bread and helps with caramelization.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and provide structure.
Leavening and Seasoning:
  • Baking Soda: Helps the cake rise and creates a light texture.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the banana bread.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and warmth to the cake's flavor profile.
Optional Add-Ins and Frosting:
  • Walnuts: Provides a crunchy texture and nutty flavor to the bread.
Cream Cheese Frosting:
  • Cream Cheese, Butter: Create a smooth, rich base for the frosting.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and thickens the cream cheese frosting.

How to Bake Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Pan

Heat the oven to 350F (175C). Generously grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring every corner is covered to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Crush Those Bananas

Take ripe bananas and mash them thoroughly with a fork until they become a smooth, creamy texture. Set the mashed bananas aside for later use.

Step 3: Whip Up the Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then pour in vanilla extract. Mix until the ingredients are completely combined and look silky.

Step 4: Combine Banana Goodness

Fold the mashed bananas into the butter mixture, stirring gently to create a rich, fragrant batter.

Step 5: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender.

Step 6: Add Nutty Crunch

If desired, gently fold in chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 60-70 minutes, checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. The toothpick should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.

Step 8: Whip Up Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is light and fluffy.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Allow the cake to cool completely. Spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top of the cake, creating swirls and peaks for a beautiful finish.

Pro Tips for Moist Banana Bread Cake

  • Choose ripe, spotty bananas for maximum sweetness and deeper banana flavor in your bread cake.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent a tough, dense texture; gently fold ingredients until just combined.
  • Toast walnuts before adding to enhance their nutty flavor and provide extra crunch to the banana bread.
  • Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the cream cheese topping from melting or sliding off.
  • Store leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Variations for Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Chocolate Chip Banana Bread: Add 1/2 cup chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet, indulgent version that kids and adults will love.
  • Tropical Banana Bread: Mix in shredded coconut and chopped macadamia nuts for a Hawaiian-inspired flavor profile with added crunch.
  • Spiced Banana Bread: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg, and a pinch of ginger to create a warm, aromatic cake with deeper complexity.
  • Gluten-Free Banana Bread: Substitute regular flour with almond flour or gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for those with wheat sensitivities.

Pairing Ideas for Banana Bread Cake

  • Pair Delectable Wine with Cake: Select a sweet Riesling or Moscato to complement the banana bread's rich, moist texture and balance its sweetness.
  • Brew Perfect Coffee Match: Choose a medium roast Colombian or Ethiopian coffee with subtle caramel notes that enhance the cake's nutty and sweet profile.
  • Create Creamy Beverage Companion: Enjoy a cold glass of whole milk or a creamy chai latte that softens the cream cheese frosting's tanginess and adds warmth to each bite.
  • Elevate Dessert Experience: Serve alongside a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream to create a luxurious contrast between the warm cake and cold, smooth ice cream.

Storage Tips for Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Store covered in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Keep frosted cake in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent cream cheese from spoiling.
  • Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Cut cake into individual portions, wrap each slice separately in plastic wrap, then place in freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. Microwave for 20-30 seconds or thaw at room temperature.
  • Warm refrigerated slices in microwave for 15-20 seconds. For a crisp texture, briefly toast in toaster oven at 350F for 2-3 minutes.

FAQs on Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

  • Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect for banana bread as they’re sweeter and mash more easily, creating a more flavorful and moist cake.

  • Is it necessary to add walnuts to the recipe?

No, walnuts are optional. You can skip them entirely or substitute with other nuts like pecans or almonds if you prefer, or leave them out completely.

  • How do I know if my banana bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, the cake is done. If there’s wet batter on the toothpick, it needs more baking time.

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Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe


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4.6 from 37 reviews

  • Total Time: 75-85 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Moist banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting delivers a heavenly dessert that blends classic comfort with elegant indulgence. Delicate crumb and tangy frosting create a perfect balance, promising pure satisfaction for anyone craving a delightful sweet treat.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 ripe bananas
  • 1 1/2 cups (190 grams) all-purpose flour
  • 2 eggs
  • 1/2 cup (115 grams) butter
  • 1 cup (200 grams) sugar

Leavening and Seasoning:

  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Frosting Ingredients:

  • 8 ounces (225 grams) cream cheese
  • 1/4 cup (55 grams) butter
  • 2 cups (240 grams) powdered sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Optional Ingredient:

  • 1/2 cup (60 grams) chopped walnuts

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 350F (175C) and lightly coat a 9×5 inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
  2. Thoroughly mash ripe bananas in a medium-sized mixing bowl until smooth and creamy, creating a rich base for the cake.
  3. In a separate large bowl, whip butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, creating a smooth foundation for the cake batter.
  4. Incorporate eggs and vanilla extract into the butter mixture, blending until fully integrated and creating a uniform consistency.
  5. Gently fold the mashed bananas into the butter mixture, ensuring even distribution of fruit throughout the batter.
  6. Sift together flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl to eliminate any potential lumps and ensure even mixing.
  7. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring carefully to maintain a smooth, lump-free batter.
  8. If desired, fold in chopped walnuts, distributing them evenly throughout the batter for added texture and flavor.
  9. Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
  10. Bake for 60-70 minutes at 350F (175C), checking doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean when the cake is fully baked.
  11. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan for about 15-20 minutes before removing.
  12. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until silky and well combined, creating a smooth base.
  13. Gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla extract, whipping until the frosting reaches a light, spreadable consistency.
  14. Once the cake has cooled completely, generously spread the cream cheese frosting across the top, creating an even layer.

Notes

  • Overripe bananas work best for maximum sweetness and moisture, creating a richer, more intense banana flavor in the bread.
  • Use room temperature ingredients like eggs and butter to ensure smoother mixing and better cake texture.
  • Fold walnuts gently to prevent deflating the batter, maintaining a light and fluffy consistency.
  • For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with almond or gluten-free blend, keeping the same measurement proportions.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 60-70 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 394 kcal
  • Sugar: 32 g
  • Sodium: 246 mg
  • Fat: 26 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Fiber: 1.5 g
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Cholesterol: 61 mg
Samantha Lee

Samantha Lee

Recipe Developer & Content Creator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipes, Recipe testing and development, Food blogging and digital content creation, Culinary education and workshops​

Education

Oregon Culinary Institute (Portland, OR)

  • Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasized plant-based cooking, global cuisines, and recipe testing methodologies.​

Samantha sees cooking like painting, every fresh herb, every juicy tomato, a new splash of color on a canvas.
After graduating from Oregon Culinary Institute, she blended her love of global cuisines and plant-based cooking into recipes that feel fresh, fearless, and full of heart.
Samantha’s kitchen is a place where comfort food gets a modern remix and every meal feels like a little adventure. When she’s not cooking, she’s out exploring farmers’ markets, sketching new recipe ideas, or getting her hands dirty in a community garden.

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