Banana bread has always been a beloved classic dessert, but have you ever thought about taking it to the next level? If you’re craving something sweet, soft, and flavorful, this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is exactly what you need. A twist on the traditional banana bread, this recipe creates a moist and tender cake with the perfect balance of flavors. The addition of cream cheese frosting adds a creamy richness that takes this treat over the top.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making this banana bread cake, from ingredients to detailed directions, along with helpful tips, benefits, and answers to frequently asked questions. So let’s get started and create a dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients for Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
For the Banana Bread Cake:
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, softened
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup powdered sugar
Directions: How to Make Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious banana bread cake topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting.
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to get it ready for baking.
- Prepare the Cake Batter: In a medium-sized mixing bowl, mash the 2 ripe bananas until smooth. The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful they will be, so use overripe bananas if possible.
- Mix Ingredients: To the mashed bananas, add 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 cup softened butter, and 1 tsp vanilla extract. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Add Dry Ingredients: Gradually add 1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour and 1/2 tsp baking soda to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix. The batter should be smooth and slightly thick.
Step 2: Bake the Banana Bread Cake
- Prepare the Pan: Grease your baking pan lightly with butter or cooking spray. You can use an 8-inch or 9-inch round pan or a loaf pan, depending on your preference.
- Pour the Batter: Pour the banana bread batter into the prepared pan, ensuring it’s spread evenly.
- Bake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown on top and firm to the touch.
- Cool the Cake: Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool completely in the pan before frosting. This step is essential to prevent the frosting from melting off the cake.
Step 3: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the Frosting: In a mixing bowl, beat together 1/4 cup softened cream cheese and 1/2 cup powdered sugar until smooth and creamy. Use an electric mixer or a hand whisk for the best results. The frosting should be light and fluffy.
Step 4: Frost the Cake
- Spread the Frosting: Once the banana bread cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top using a spatula. You can spread the frosting smoothly for an elegant finish or leave it slightly swirled for a more rustic look.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and Serve: Once frosted, cut the Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting into slices and enjoy! The cream cheese frosting adds the perfect sweetness and tang to the moist banana bread cake.
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 250-300 kcal (depending on serving size)
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Protein: 2g
- Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 20g
Tips for the Perfect Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
- Use Ripe Bananas: The key to making this cake moist and flavorful is using ripe bananas. Overripe bananas are sweet and have more flavor, making them ideal for baking.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter: Once you add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mix gently. Overmixing can result in a dense and heavy cake.
- Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter cake, you can increase the sugar by an extra tablespoon. Alternatively, if you want a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by a tablespoon.
- Chill the Frosting: If your cream cheese frosting is too soft or runny, place it in the fridge for 10-15 minutes to firm up before spreading it on the cake.
- Add Toppings: Feel free to add a sprinkle of cinnamon or chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans) to the frosting for an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Benefits of Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
This banana bread cake is not only delicious but also offers several benefits:
- Rich in Potassium: Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, which supports heart health and helps maintain proper muscle and nerve function.
- High in Fiber: Bananas also contain dietary fiber, which helps support digestive health.
- Good Source of Healthy Fats: The cream cheese frosting contains a small amount of fat, which can help provide energy and support cell function.
- Customizable: This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe can easily be adapted for different dietary preferences by using gluten-free flour or substituting a dairy-free cream cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting without the cream cheese frosting?
Yes! If you prefer, you can enjoy the Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting on its own, as it’s already moist and flavorful. Alternatively, you could opt for a simple glaze or powdered sugar dusting for a lighter touch.
Can I freeze the Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting?
Yes, you can freeze the cake without the frosting. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to serve, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then frost as usual.
How can I make this Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting recipe healthier?
To make this banana bread cake healthier, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber, use a sugar substitute like stevia, or use light cream cheese for the frosting.
Conclusion: The Ultimate Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting is a fantastic treat that brings together the natural sweetness of bananas with the creamy tanginess of the frosting. Whether you’re looking for a quick dessert for a family gathering or a special treat for yourself, this recipe is sure to please everyone.
The best part about this recipe is its versatility. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can make this cake in no time. You can also customize it to fit your dietary preferences or get creative with additional flavors and toppings.
Try this recipe today, and you’ll have a delectable dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Happy baking!
