The smell of a freshly baked banana cake is truly comforting. Its moist crumb and rich flavor are perfect with a silky cream cheese frosting. This classic American dessert is a favorite that brings back memories of cozy family gatherings and homemade sweets.
As a passionate home baker, I’m excited to share my favorite recipe. This banana cake with cream cheese frosting is sure to delight your senses. It will become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Why This Banana Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting Will Become Your Go-To Recipe
An easy banana cake recipe is a treasure for bakers. This banana cake with cream cheese frosting is a quick bread recipe that always impresses. It’s perfect for bakers of all levels.
This banana cake is loved for its perfect mix of sweet and rich flavors. The cake is moist, thanks to the ripe bananas. The cream cheese frosting adds a silky touch, making each bite a treat. It’s a recipe that will quickly become your favorite.
This banana cake recipe is also very flexible. You can enjoy it as a simple dessert or add special toppings for special events. Its versatility makes it a reliable choice for any occasion.
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Banana Cake
Baking the ultimate banana cake needs a special list of ingredients. As a passionate baker, I’ve learned that the key is finding the right mix. This mix makes the cake moist and full of flavor.
The star of this cake is ripe bananas. The sweeter and more fragrant they are, the better the cake will taste. You also need all-purpose flour for structure and baking soda for the perfect rise.
Brown sugar adds a deep, caramelized flavor. Vanilla extract boosts the cake’s taste. These ingredients make the cake a true comfort food.
For the cake’s creamy texture, you’ll need eggs, milk, and butter. Eggs bind the ingredients, milk keeps it moist, and butter makes it tender. A bit of salt balances the sweetness, bringing all the flavors together.
With these ingredients, you’re ready to bake the most delicious fruit-based cakes. Your friends and family will love them.
Kitchen Tools and Equipment You’ll Need
Baking homemade cakes is easier with the right tools. For this banana cake with cream cheese frosting, you’ll need some key items. They’ll help you bake a delicious cake.
You’ll need a strong stand mixer or hand mixer. It’s for creaming butter and sugar, and mixing wet and dry ingredients. A good hand mixer can also do the job.
For baking, get two 9-inch round cake pans. They help bake the cake in even layers. This makes frosting easier. You can also use square or rectangular pans if you don’t have round ones.
A reliable oven thermometer is essential. It ensures your oven is at the right temperature. This is key for baking the cake perfectly.
For frosting, a large offset spatula or icing knife is best. It helps spread the frosting evenly. This gives your cake a professional look.
How to Choose and Prepare Bananas for Baking
Choosing the right bananas is key for a delicious banana cake with cream cheese frosting. You want bananas that are ripe but not too ripe. Look for bananas with a few brown speckles on the peel.
These bananas will give your cake the right mix of sweetness and texture. Don’t pick bananas that are too brown, as they can make the cake heavy. Green bananas won’t have the banana flavor you’re looking for.
After picking the right bananas, it’s time to get them ready. Peel and mash the bananas well. This step makes sure the banana flavor is spread evenly in the cake. It also helps the cake have a smooth texture.
Step-by-Step Mixing Process for a Moist Cake
Making the perfect moist banana cake begins with mixing. By following a few simple steps, your cake will be tender, flavorful, and moist. Let’s explore the easy banana cake recipe that will become your favorite.
First, preheat your oven and grease your baking pan lightly. This makes the cake easy to remove after baking. Next, mix the dry ingredients – flour, baking soda, and a pinch of salt – in a large bowl. Whisk them together until they’re fully mixed.
In another bowl, mash the ripe bananas until they’re smooth. Add the room-temperature eggs, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Whisk these wet ingredients until they’re well mixed. Then, slowly add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and fold them together gently. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make the cake dense and tough.
After mixing the batter just enough, pour it into your prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Then, put it in the oven and let it bake. This easy banana cake recipe will give you a moist and flavorful cake every time.
Baking Tips for the Perfect Golden Brown Finish
Getting that golden brown crust on your baked goods is an art. I’ve learned a few tricks to make your banana cake look great. The secret is balancing oven temperature and baking time.
To get a golden brown finish, preheat your oven to 350°F. This temperature is perfect. It makes the outside golden while keeping the inside moist. Bake for 45-55 minutes, watching it closely at the end.
Check if your cake is done with the toothpick test. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. Don’t over-bake, as it can make the cake dry. The cake should be springy and easy to remove from the pan.
Follow these tips to make moist, golden banana cakes. They’ll impress your family and friends. Serve it with creamy frosting for a recipe that’s a hit.
Creating the Silky Cream Cheese Frosting
Making the perfect cream cheese frosting is a fun art that can make any banana cake special. Start by beating softened cream cheese until it’s light and fluffy. Then, add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
The goal is to whip the mix until it’s smooth and spreadable. It should not be too thick or too thin.
Learning to make cream cheese frosting is a big plus for dessert lovers. It pairs well with banana cake, creating a sweet and tangy mix. With a few easy steps, you can turn your cake into a stunning centerpiece that will wow everyone.
To apply the frosting, use a gentle touch and an offset spatula. Spread it evenly over the cooled cake’s top and sides. Make sure to cover every part, for a smooth, professional look. The frosting will enhance the cake’s flavor and offer a luxurious feel that melts in your mouth.
Decorating Your Banana Cake Like a Pro
Take your homemade banana cake to the next level with my decorating tips. Whether you want a simple yet stunning look or a show-stopping dessert, I’ve got you covered. Let’s explore ways to turn your moist and flavorful cake into a masterpiece that will wow your guests.
Piping the cream cheese frosting into elegant swirls or rosettes is a favorite technique of mine. It adds a beautiful texture and lets you show off the frosting’s rich, creamy flavor. For a whimsical touch, try dusting the base with toasted coconut or crushed graham crackers.
Why not add fresh fruit to your decorations? Sliced bananas, juicy strawberries, or vibrant blueberries can add color and a refreshing contrast. Arrange them in a pattern that catches the eye for a stunning presentation. Get creative and make your banana cake the centerpiece of the dessert table.
FAQ
What makes this banana cake with cream cheese frosting so special?
This banana cake with cream cheese frosting is a classic American dessert. It’s incredibly moist and flavorful. The banana taste is rich and perfect with the silky cream cheese frosting.
It’s an indulgent treat that will become a family favorite.
Is this banana cake recipe easy to make?
Absolutely! This banana cake recipe is simple and straightforward. You need just a few basic ingredients and easy steps to make a delicious cake at home.
Even if you’re new to baking, you can easily make this tasty treat.
What are the key ingredients needed for this banana cake?
The key ingredients for the banana cake are ripe bananas, all-purpose flour, sugar, eggs, butter, and baking soda. For the frosting, you’ll need cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract.
These ingredients create the perfect flavor and texture.
What kind of kitchen equipment do I need to make this banana cake?
You’ll need basic baking tools like a mixing bowl, hand mixer or stand mixer, a 9×13-inch baking pan, and a frosting spatula or butter knife. A cake tester or toothpick is also helpful.
With these tools, you can bake a delicious homemade cake.
How do I choose the best bananas for baking?
Choose bananas that are ripe and spotty. The riper they are, the stronger the banana flavor in the cake. Avoid green or unripe bananas for the best results.
Mash the bananas well before adding them to the batter.
What’s the secret to a perfectly moist banana cake?
The secret is in the mixing process. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Then, gently fold in the mashed bananas without overmixing.
This creates the perfect crumb and prevents the cake from becoming dense or dry.
How do I get a beautifully golden brown crust on the banana cake?
To get a golden brown crust, preheat your oven correctly and bake the cake for the recommended time. Keep an eye on it towards the end and use the toothpick test.
Properly greasing the baking pan also helps achieve the perfect golden-brown finish.
What’s the secret to making the cream cheese frosting silky smooth?
The secret is to have all ingredients at room temperature before mixing. This ensures they mix seamlessly. Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth before adding powdered sugar.
With patience and the right technique, you’ll get a frosting that’s silky smooth.
How can I decorate my banana cake to make it look extra special?
There are many ways to decorate your banana cake. Start by spreading the frosting evenly over the cake. For a more elaborate look, pipe the frosting in swirls or rosettes.
You can also top the cake with chopped nuts, a dusting of cinnamon, or fresh banana slices for a beautiful presentation.
Print
Banana Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 4 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup sour cream or plain yogurt
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
Making the Cake:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan (or line with parchment paper).
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large bowl, use a hand or stand mixer to beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Incorporate Wet Ingredients: Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add Bananas and Sour Cream: Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream until fully incorporated.
- Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
Making the Cream Cheese Frosting:
- Beat Cream Cheese and Butter: In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add Sugar and Flavoring: Gradually add the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Beat on low speed initially to avoid splattering, then increase to high speed until fully combined and smooth.
- Adjust Consistency: If the frosting is too thick, add 1-2 teaspoons of milk. If too thin, add more powdered sugar.
Frost and Decorate:
- Frost the Cake: Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake using an offset spatula or butter knife.
- Optional Decorations: Garnish with banana slices, chopped nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon for an extra touch.
