If you treasure the comforting flavors of banana bread but crave something a bit more decadent and celebratory, then this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe is exactly what you need. It takes the familiar moistness of banana bread and elevates it into a rich, luscious cake topped with silky cream cheese frosting. Every bite delivers that perfect balance of sweet banana flavor, buttery texture, and tangy cream cheese that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re making it for a family gathering or a special afternoon treat, this cake is sure to become a beloved favorite.

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting to the heart of this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe means using simple, straightforward ingredients. Each plays a crucial role, from the ripe bananas that bring natural sweetness and moisture to the cream cheese and butter that make the frosting irresistibly smooth and tangy.

Mash ripe bananas: About 3-4 bananas will add natural sweetness and moist texture.
All-purpose flour: The base of the cake, providing structure and crumb.
Baking soda: Helps the cake rise and keeps it light.
Salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing the sweetness.
Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and tenderness to the cake.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake without overpowering bananas.
Brown sugar: Adds a subtle caramel note that complements the banana.
Large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add moisture.
Vanilla extract: Brings depth and warmth to the flavor profile.
Buttermilk (or substitute): Keeps the cake moist and tender with a slight tang.
Cream cheese (softened): For a creamy, tangy frosting that pairs perfectly with the cake’s sweetness.
Powdered sugar: Sweetens the frosting, allowing you to adjust to taste.

How to Make Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing and flouring a 9×13-inch baking pan. This way, your cake will bake evenly and lift out smoothly when it’s ready.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures that your leavening is evenly distributed for a uniform rise and that the salt brings out all the flavors.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

Using a large bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy. This step traps air, which contributes to the light texture of your cake and offers a hint of caramel sweetness from the brown sugar.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time to maintain the mixture’s lightness, then mix in the vanilla to bring warmth and depth to your batter.

Step 5: Incorporate Bananas

Blend in the mashed ripe bananas until fully incorporated. These bananas infuse the batter with natural sweetness and incredible moisture.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk

Gradually add the flour mixture and buttermilk alternately, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which keeps your cake tender and moist.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This ensures your cake is perfectly cooked through but still moist.

Step 8: Cool Before Frosting

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is key because the cream cheese frosting works best on a fully cooled cake.

Step 9: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar, about a cup at a time, beating well after each addition until the frosting is fluffy and just the right sweetness for your taste.

Step 10: Frost and Serve

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled banana bread cake. Slice it up and get ready to enjoy one of the most comforting and delicious treats you’ll ever make!

How to Serve Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Garnishes

Add a personal touch by sprinkling chopped walnuts or pecans on top of the frosting for a delightful crunch, or scatter a few banana chips for extra banana flavor and a fun texture contrast.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or a cold glass of milk. For a special brunch, serve it alongside fresh berries or a light fruit salad that complements the cake’s richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving this cake as mini slices stacked in a dessert parfait with layers of whipped cream and fresh fruit. Alternatively, cut it into squares and serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store leftover Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. After that, refrigeration is best to keep the frosting fresh and prevent spoilage.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight for the best texture.

Reheating

For a warm treat, gently warm a slice in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds. This softens the cream cheese frosting just a little and enhances the cake’s comforting flavors without melting the frosting completely.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect because they’re sweeter and softer, providing natural sweetness and moistness that make your banana bread cake extra delicious.

What can I use if I don’t have buttermilk?

You can easily make a buttermilk substitute by adding one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar to half a cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using. It adds the same tender texture and slight tang as real buttermilk.

Is it necessary to use both granulated and brown sugar?

Using both sugars adds complexity to your cake’s flavor—the brown sugar brings a subtle caramel note, while the granulated sugar sweetens without overpowering the banana taste. But you can adjust according to your preference.

Can I make this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum usually works well. Just be sure to check the blend suits baking cakes to maintain texture.

How long does this cake keep in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, the cake keeps well for up to 4-5 days. The cream cheese frosting stays fresh and creamy throughout this period.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. It’s simple yet indulgent, nostalgic but with a touch of sophistication thanks to that luscious frosting. Whip it up for your next gathering or whenever you want to treat yourself to a cozy, delicious moment. Trust me, once you try it, this cake will have a permanent spot in your recipe collection!