This Banana Bread Cake is the perfect blend of moist, fluffy banana bread and rich, creamy frosting! With the sweetness of ripe bananas, warm vanilla flavor, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is perfect for desserts, brunch, or a sweet snack.
This easy-to-make one-bowl cake will become your new favorite way to use up ripe bananas!
💚 Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Super Moist & Flavorful – Thanks to ripe bananas and buttermilk.
✔ Perfectly Sweet – The balance of brown sugar and vanilla makes it irresistible.
✔ Creamy, Tangy Frosting – Classic cream cheese frosting elevates this cake!
✔ Great for Any Occasion – Ideal for breakfast, dessert, or special events.
📌 Ingredients (Serves 12)
🍰 For the Banana Bread Cake:
- 1½ cups mashed ripe bananas (3-4 medium bananas)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup buttermilk (or ½ cup milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar/lemon juice)
🧁 For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3-4 cups powdered sugar (adjust to desired sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
💡 Optional Additions:
✔ Stir in ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a nutty crunch.
✔ Sprinkle cinnamon for a hint of warmth.
✔ Add chocolate chips for extra indulgence!
🍽 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔥 Step 1: Preheat the Oven & Prepare the Pan
1️⃣ Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2️⃣ Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
💡 For a round cake, use two 9-inch cake pans instead.
🍌 Step 2: Make the Banana Cake Batter
1️⃣ In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.
2️⃣ Add butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar and beat until fluffy.
3️⃣ Mix in eggs and vanilla extract until combined.
💡 Tip: Overripe bananas make the cake extra moist & naturally sweet!
🥣 Step 3: Combine Dry & Wet Ingredients
1️⃣ In a separate bowl, whisk together:
- Flour
- Baking soda
- Salt
2️⃣ Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with buttermilk.
3️⃣ Stir until just combined—don’t overmix!
💡 Tip: Overmixing can make the cake dense instead of fluffy.
🍰 Step 4: Bake Until Golden Brown
1️⃣ Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish.
2️⃣ Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3️⃣ Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
💡 For cupcakes, bake at 350°F for 18-20 minutes.
🧁 Step 5: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
1️⃣ In a bowl, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
2️⃣ Gradually add powdered sugar (start with 3 cups) and beat until fluffy.
3️⃣ Add vanilla extract if using.
💡 Tip: For a thicker frosting, add more powdered sugar.
🍽 Step 6: Frost & Serve
1️⃣ Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
2️⃣ Garnish with chopped nuts, banana slices, or a dusting of cinnamon.
3️⃣ Slice and enjoy!
💡 Chill for 30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
🕰️ Recipe Timing & Nutrition
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Bake Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: ~45 minutes
- Calories: ~320 kcal per serving
- Servings: 12
👩🍳 Pro Tips & Variations
✔ Make It Gluten-Free – Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
✔ Want a Bundt Cake? – Bake in a bundt pan for 45-50 minutes.
✔ Dairy-Free Version? – Swap butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free cream cheese.
✔ Extra Moist? – Add ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt.
❓ FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! The cake can be made a day ahead and stored at room temperature (unfrosted) or in the fridge (frosted).
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Can I freeze banana cake?
Yes! Wrap the unfrosted cake in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw before frosting.