Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Welcome to our delightful recipe blog! Today, we’re excited to share a mouth-watering treat that’s sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Get ready to indulge in the heavenly flavors of our Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. This cake is perfect for birthdays, family gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home. Its moist texture and rich frosting make it truly irresistible!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and creamy frosting creates a flavor that everyone will adore.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Versatile Treat: Serve it as dessert at parties or enjoy it as a snack with coffee or tea.
- Moist and Tender: The bananas keep the cake moist, ensuring every bite is soft and delicious.
- Frosting Perfection: The cream cheese frosting adds a smooth and tangy finish that elevates the cake.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start baking your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spatula
- 9×13 inch baking pan
Importance of Each Tool
- Electric mixer: This tool helps achieve a fluffy texture for both the cake batter and frosting, making mixing effortless.
- Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking; they ensure consistent results.
- Spatula: A good spatula allows you to fold ingredients gently without deflating the batter.
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
For the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How to Make Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, combine the following:
Flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Mix these dry ingredients thoroughly and set aside.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together:
Unsalted butter
Granulated sugar
Beat until light and fluffy. Add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the creamed mixture. Start with flour, alternating with buttermilk, ending with flour. Gently fold in the mashed bananas until just combined.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Step 6: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools, beat together:
Cream cheese
Unsalted butter
Mix until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy.
Step 7: Frost Your Cake
Ensure that your cake is completely cooled before spreading the frosting evenly over the top. Enjoy your delicious Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting!
How to Serve Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Serving your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting can elevate its deliciousness. Here are some creative ideas to make your dessert experience even better.
Casual Gatherings
- Coffee Pairing: Serve a slice of banana cake alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee for a delightful afternoon treat.
- Ice Cream Side: Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a decadent dessert experience.
Celebratory Occasions
- Fruit Garnish: Add slices of fresh bananas or berries on top for a vibrant look and added flavor.
- Decorative Sprinkles: Use colorful sprinkles to give your cake a festive touch, perfect for birthdays or celebrations.
Simple Snacks
- With Whipped Cream: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream on the side for an extra creamy delight.
- Nut Topping: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the frosting for added crunch and flavor.
How to Perfect Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
To ensure you achieve the best results with your banana cake, follow these simple tips.
- Use Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas not only add sweetness but also moisture, making your cake incredibly soft.
- Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure butter and eggs are at room temperature. This helps in achieving a smooth batter.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently fold in the flour mixture and bananas. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean when inserted into the center.
- Cool Completely Before Frosting: Allow the cake to cool fully so that the frosting doesn’t melt into the cake.
- Experiment with Flavors: Try adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor in your banana cake.
Best Side Dishes for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Pairing your banana cake with complementary side dishes can enhance its taste. Here are some great options.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Classic vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast to the warmth of the banana cake.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over each slice adds indulgence and richness.
- Chai Tea: A warm cup of chai tea offers spices that beautifully complement the flavors in banana cake.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruit makes for a healthy side that pairs well with dessert.
- Toasted Nuts: Serving toasted almonds or pecans alongside adds crunch and enhances nutty flavors in the cake.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When baking banana cake with cream cheese frosting, there are common pitfalls that can affect the outcome. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:
- Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe bananas are essential for flavor, overly brown bananas can make the cake too mushy. Aim for bananas that are ripe with some brown spots.
- Skipping the Creaming Step: Failing to cream butter and sugar adequately can result in a dense cake. Take your time to mix until light and fluffy for a better texture.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Using incorrect measurements can ruin your banana cake. Always use measuring cups and spoons for precision.
- Opening the Oven Door Too Soon: Every time you open the oven door, heat escapes, which can cause the cake to sink. Wait until the minimum baking time has passed before checking.
- Frosting a Warm Cake: Frosting a warm cake can melt your cream cheese frosting, causing it to slide off. Allow the cake to cool completely before adding the frosting.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover banana cake with cream cheese frosting in an airtight container.
- It will last for about 5 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Wrap slices of banana cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and cover them with foil. Heat for about 10 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on medium power for 20-30 seconds or until warm.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat. Warm each slice covered for about 5 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions frequently asked about making banana cake with cream cheese frosting:
Can I use frozen bananas for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas! Just make sure they are well-drained before mashing.
What can I substitute for buttermilk in this recipe?
You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice with one cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I make my cream cheese frosting fluffier?
To achieve fluffier frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together thoroughly before adding powdered sugar.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Banana Cake?
Absolutely! Mixing in chopped walnuts or chocolate chips adds great texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This banana cake with cream cheese frosting is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or even spices like cinnamon. It’s perfect for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. We encourage you to try this recipe and enjoy every bite!
Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting, a perfect dessert for any occasion. This moist and tender cake, enriched with ripe bananas, is topped with a creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting that elevates every bite. Whether it’s a family gathering, birthday celebration, or a simple afternoon treat, this cake guarantees to impress your guests. With easy-to-follow steps and minimal ingredients, even novice bakers can whip up this sweet delight. Enjoy serving it alongside coffee or ice cream for an extra special touch.
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Cream butter and sugar until fluffy; add eggs and vanilla.
- Alternate adding dry ingredients and buttermilk to the creamed mixture; fold in mashed bananas.
- Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 25-30 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For frosting: beat cream cheese and butter until smooth; gradually mix in powdered sugar and vanilla.
- Once cooled, frost the cake evenly.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (90g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 30g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
