Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the easy banana cake you’ll bake on repeat! Made with ripe bananas, unsalted butter, and pantry staples, it’s as soft and light as banana muffins and as rich as chocolate chip banana bread. Start by creaming the butter and sugars at high speed, add the eggs and mashed bananas, then bake in cake pans until golden. Cool completely before frosting for the perfect finish!

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Why You’ll Love This Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

This Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. It comes together quickly, making it perfect for those hectic days when you need a sweet escape. The rich, moist cake paired with the tangy cream cheese frosting creates a taste sensation that’s hard to resist. Plus, it’s gluten-free, so everyone can enjoy a slice without worry. What’s not to love?

Ingredients for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Gluten-free baking flour: This is the base of our cake, providing structure without the gluten. You can use a store-bought blend or make your own.
• Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the cake rise, giving it that fluffy texture we all love.
• Cinnamon: A warm spice that adds depth and a hint of sweetness to the cake. It’s like a cozy blanket for your taste buds!
• Kosher salt: Just a pinch enhances the flavors, balancing the sweetness of the bananas and sugar.
• Ripe bananas: The star of the show! The riper they are, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Aim for bananas with plenty of brown spots.
• Sugar: This sweetener brings out the natural flavors of the bananas and adds moisture to the cake.
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter creates a rich, tender crumb. If you prefer, you can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Large eggs: Eggs help bind the ingredients together and add moisture. They also contribute to the cake’s structure.
• Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla adds a lovely aroma and enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
• Cream cheese: This is the key ingredient for our luscious frosting. It provides a creamy texture and a tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the cake.
• Powdered sugar: This sweetener is used in the frosting to achieve that smooth, spreadable consistency.

How to Make Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s dive into the fun part—making this delicious Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delightful dessert in no time.

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your cake bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grease and flour two 8-inch cake pans. This step is crucial to prevent sticking. Trust me, you want your cake to come out beautifully!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the gluten-free baking flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and kosher salt. This step helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices. It’s like giving your dry ingredients a little dance party before they meet the wet ones!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened unsalted butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes. The fluffiness is key to a tender cake. It’s like aerating your cake batter, making it rise beautifully in the oven!

Step 4: Add Eggs and Bananas

Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, gently fold in the mashed ripe bananas and vanilla extract. The bananas add moisture and flavor, making your cake irresistibly delicious. It’s like a sweet serenade for your taste buds!

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; we want a tender cake, not a tough one! It’s like a gentle hug for your batter, bringing everything together without squishing it!

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter evenly into the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly! Just be patient; the wait will be worth it!

Step 7: Cool the Cakes

Once baked, let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to a wire rack to cool completely. This step is essential; frosting a warm cake can lead to a melty mess. We want a beautiful, layered masterpiece!

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cakes cool, let’s whip up the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and powdered sugar together until smooth. This frosting is creamy and tangy, perfectly complementing the sweetness of the cake. It’s like the cherry on top of your baking adventure!

Step 9: Frost and Assemble

Once the cakes are completely cool, it’s time to frost! Place one layer on a serving plate, spread a generous amount of frosting on top, and then stack the second layer. Frost the top and sides of the cake. For a lovely touch, garnish with banana slices or chopped nuts if you like. Your Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is now ready to shine!

Tips for Success

• Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
• Don’t overmix the batter; mix until just combined for a tender cake.
• Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to avoid melting.
• For a fun twist, add chopped nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
• Store leftover cake in the refrigerator to keep it fresh and moist.

Equipment Needed

• Two 8-inch cake pans (you can use round or square pans, whatever you have on hand)
• Mixing bowls (a large bowl for wet ingredients and a medium bowl for dry ingredients)
• Whisk (a fork works in a pinch for mixing dry ingredients)
• Electric mixer (a hand mixer or even a whisk will do for creaming butter and sugar)
• Wire rack (if you don’t have one, a plate will work for cooling the cakes)

Variations of Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Nutty Delight: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
• Chocolate Lovers: Mix in chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a rich, chocolatey twist on the classic banana cake.
• Spiced Up: Experiment with spices like nutmeg or ginger for a warm, cozy flavor profile that complements the bananas.
• Vegan Option: Substitute eggs with flaxseed meal and use coconut oil instead of butter for a delicious vegan version.
• Fruit Fusion: Incorporate other fruits like blueberries or strawberries for a fruity explosion in every bite.

Serving Suggestions for Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea to enhance the flavors.
• For a festive touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves or edible flowers.
• Slice and serve on colorful plates for a cheerful presentation.
• Consider adding a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra indulgent treat.

FAQs about Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Can I use regular flour instead of gluten-free flour?

Absolutely! If gluten isn’t a concern for you, feel free to swap in regular all-purpose flour. Just keep in mind that the texture may differ slightly.

How do I store leftover Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor!

Can I freeze the Banana Cake?

Yes! You can freeze the cake layers before frosting. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge before frosting and serving.

What can I substitute for cream cheese in the frosting?

If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using vegan cream cheese or a whipped coconut cream. Both will give you a deliciously creamy frosting without the dairy!

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Definitely! This Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting can be made a day in advance. Just frost it the day you plan to serve it for the freshest taste!

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about baking a Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. It’s not just about the delicious flavors; it’s about the memories created in the kitchen. The laughter, the little hands helping, and the sweet aroma filling your home make it all worthwhile. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to simple family gatherings. Each slice is a reminder that life’s sweetest moments often come from the simplest recipes. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the joy that this delightful cake brings to your table!

More Recipes Hungry to Try

If you loved this banana cake recipe made with ripe bananas, you’ll definitely want to dive into more sweet and savory delights! These recipes bring the same comfort and flavor-packed joy as a slice of banana cake with cream cheese frosting—and some might even give your favorite chocolate chip banana bread a run for its money!

• Craving something light and fluffy? Try these Nun’s Puffs – Delightful Airy Pastries for a heavenly bite.
• Bring dinner to life with Spinach and Chicken Pasta with Sun-Dried Tomatoes, a creamy, comforting dish perfect after baking your favorite easy banana cake.
• These Crabby Shrimp-Stuffed Garlic Bread Bombs are as irresistible as banana muffins fresh out of the oven!
• For another banana-themed treat, check out this chilled Banana Pudding Layered Dessert—it’s as nostalgic as it is delicious.
• Looking for a side dish to serve with sheet cakes or brunch desserts? This Creamy Cucumber Tomato Onion Salad is crisp and refreshing, especially when your kitchen is already warm from baking!