Banana cake is a delightful treat that brings comfort and joy to any table. With moist layers and a sweet cream cheese frosting, it’s a cake that everyone will love. Whether you’re using overripe bananas or just want to bake something special, this recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion!
Why Make This Recipe
Making banana cake is a wonderful way to use up ripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. Plus, it’s a simple recipe that doesn’t take much time or effort. You can whip this up for a family gathering, a birthday party, or just as a sweet treat for the weekend. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again!
How to Make Banana Cake
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Cream cheese frosting (for frosting)
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, mashed bananas, and vanilla; mix until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Once cooled, frost with cream cheese frosting and serve.
How to Serve Banana Cake
Banana cake is best served at room temperature. You can cut it into slices and top each piece with a generous amount of cream cheese frosting. It pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a lovely afternoon treat.
How to Store Banana Cake
Store any leftover banana cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure to let it come back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Tips to Make Banana Cake
- Make sure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavor.
- Don’t overmix your batter; mix until just combined for a fluffy cake.
- Feel free to add chopped nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor!
Variation
You can turn this banana cake into banana muffins by pouring the batter into a muffin tin instead of cake pans. Just reduce the baking time to about 15-20 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Yes, thawed frozen bananas work well! Just make sure to mash them well before adding.
2. How do I make the cream cheese frosting?
To make cream cheese frosting, beat together 8 oz of softened cream cheese, 1/2 cup of softened butter, and 2 cups of powdered sugar until smooth.
3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just frost it right before serving for the best taste.
