Ever dreamed of transforming traditional banana bread into something extraordinary? This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is where cozy comfort meets elegant indulgence. Imagine the most tender, moist banana bread you’ve ever tasted, elevated with a cloud of silky cream cheese frosting that melts in your mouth.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Transform your overripe bananas into a luxurious cake that combines the homey comfort of banana bread with the decadence of cream cheese frosting. This recipe bridges the gap between a classic banana bread and a sophisticated layer cake, making it perfect for both casual gatherings and special occasions.
Pure Comfort
There’s something magical about the aroma of banana bread baking in the oven. This elevated version maintains all the nostalgic warmth of traditional banana bread while adding an indulgent twist with its velvety cream cheese frosting. Each slice delivers that perfect balance of moist, banana-rich cake and creamy, tangy topping.
Ingredients
What You Need
Cake:
- 3 very ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Time to Cook
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Bake Time: 35-40 minutes
- Cooling Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 2 hours
Steps to Make It
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs one at a time, then add mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool completely before frosting.
Frosting:
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth.
- Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Beat until creamy and spread over cooled cake.
Make It Perfect
- Use overripe bananas with lots of brown spots for the best flavor
- Bring dairy ingredients to room temperature before starting
- Don’t overmix the batter once you add the flour
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting
Mix It Up
Try these delicious variations:
- Add 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter
- Incorporate 1/2 cup chocolate chips
- Swirl in 1/4 cup caramel sauce before baking
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon to the frosting
Perfect Partners
Serve with:
- Fresh coffee or tea
- A glass of cold milk
- Fresh banana slices as garnish
- Toasted nuts for extra crunch
Busy Day Hero
Make the cake portion ahead and freeze unfrosted for up to 3 months. The cream cheese frosting can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator.
Work Ahead
Prep ingredients the night before:
- Mash bananas and store in an airtight container
- Measure dry ingredients and store in a sealed bag
- Bring dairy ingredients to room temperature
Save Some For Later
Store frosted cake in an airtight container:
- Room temperature: 2 days
- Refrigerated: 5 days
- Freezer (unfrosted): 3 months
Everyone’s Happy
This versatile cake suits many dietary preferences:
- Easily made nut-free by omitting nuts
- Can use gluten-free flour blend (1:1 ratio)
- Perfect for both kids and adults
Good For You Too
- Bananas provide potassium and fiber
- Can reduce sugar content by 25% without affecting texture
- Add whole wheat flour for extra nutrition
- Rich in mood-boosting compounds from bananas
Easy Clean Up
- Line your pan with parchment paper for easy removal
- Use minimal bowls by planning your mixing order
- Clean as you go to prevent frosting from hardening
- Soak tools immediately after use
Switch It Up
- Make into cupcakes (bake 20-25 minutes)
- Create a layer cake using two 8-inch rounds
- Turn into a bundt cake (adjust baking time)
- Make mini loaves for gifting
Simply Perfect
This banana bread cake hits all the right notes:
- Moist and tender crumb
- Perfect balance of banana flavor
- Creamy, tangy frosting
- Not too sweet, not too heavy.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw completely and drain excess liquid.
Why did my cake sink in the middle?
Check your baking soda freshness and avoid opening the oven door while baking.
Can I make this without frosting?
Absolutely! It’s delicious plain or with a simple glaze.
How ripe should the bananas be?
Very spotted or black bananas work best.
Can I reduce the sugar?
Yes, you can reduce by up to 25% without affecting texture.
Will this work with cream cheese spread?
Use block cream cheese for best frosting results.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, use a larger pan and increase baking time accordingly.
Conclusion
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting combines the best of both worlds – the comforting familiarity of banana bread with the luxury of a properly frosted cake. Whether you’re serving it at a special gathering or enjoying it as an elevated everyday treat, this recipe delivers consistent, delicious results that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Explore More Flavorful Dishes
If you enjoyed the bold flavors of the Street Corn Chicken Rice Bowl, you’ll love diving into other delicious recipes! For another comforting, protein-packed meal, try the Garlic Butter Chicken Balls with Creamy Parmesan Pasta—a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner. If you’re in the mood for a vibrant and wholesome side, the Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes, Carrots, and Zucchini add a burst of color and flavor to any meal. For those who love indulgent comfort food, the One-Pan Chicken with Buttered Noodles is a simple yet satisfying option. If you’re craving something sweet to balance the spices, the Bergamot Orange and Mascarpone Tiramisu with Pistachio Praline offers a delightful mix of creamy, citrusy, and nutty flavors. And for a savory breakfast or snack, don’t miss the Cheesy Garlic Chicken Wraps—a perfect grab-and-go meal bursting with Italian-inspired goodness!