Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This banana cake is wonderfully soft and flavorful, making it an irresistible dessert or afternoon treat. The cream cheese frosting adds a luscious layer of sweetness and tang that pairs beautifully with the natural richness of ripe bananas. It’s easy to make with simple ingredients, and the result is a comforting cake that feels both homey and indulgent.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour

• 2 teaspoons baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 tablespoons canola oil

• 3/4 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs, at room temperature

• 1 large egg white, at room temperature

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 4 large ripe bananas

• 1/4 cup milk

For the frosting:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 1/2 cups confectioners’ sugar

• 2 tablespoons chopped toasted nuts, optional

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease or spray an 8-inch square baking pan.

2. In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.

3. Using an electric mixer, beat butter, oil, and sugar until well combined. Add eggs and egg white one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.

4. In a separate bowl, mash bananas with milk until smooth.

5. Mix half of the dry ingredients into the butter mixture, then fold in banana mixture, followed by the remaining dry ingredients.

6. Pour batter into the prepared pan and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan on a wire rack.

7. For the frosting, beat cream cheese and vanilla with an electric mixer. Gradually add confectioners’ sugar until smooth.

8. Spread frosting evenly over cooled cake and sprinkle with nuts, if desired.

Servings and timing

• Yield: 16 servings

• Prep Time: 30 minutes

• Cook Time: 45 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

• Add spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for extra warmth.

• Stir in chocolate chips or chopped walnuts for more texture.

• Replace some of the flour with whole wheat flour for a heartier cake.

• Swap the cream cheese frosting with a simple glaze or leave it unfrosted for a lighter treat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover banana cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight. For serving, allow the cake to come to room temperature or microwave slices for 15–20 seconds for a softer texture.

FAQs

Can I make this banana cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day in advance. Store it covered at room temperature and frost it just before serving.

Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, thaw and drain frozen bananas before mashing. They work just as well as fresh ripe bananas.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. Bake it in a 9×13-inch pan, adjusting the baking time slightly longer.

Do I have to use cream cheese frosting?

No, you can use buttercream, whipped cream, or a simple glaze.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, substitute a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend designed for baking.

Can I reduce the sugar?

You can slightly reduce the sugar in the batter without affecting the texture, though it will be less sweet.

Should the bananas be overripe?

Yes, overripe bananas with brown spots provide the best flavor and sweetness.

Can I add nuts inside the cake?

Yes, fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds for crunch.

Does this cake need to be refrigerated?

Yes, since it has cream cheese frosting, it should be refrigerated.

Conclusion

This banana cake with cream cheese frosting is a comforting, delicious dessert that highlights the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Easy to prepare with simple pantry ingredients, it’s versatile enough for everyday snacking yet special enough to serve at gatherings. With its moist crumb, tangy frosting, and optional nutty topping, it’s sure to become a favorite in your baking rotation.

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