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### **Why Banana Bread Cake?**
So, why choose to make a banana bread cake instead of a traditional loaf? The answer lies in the versatility of cake. Cakes are easier to serve in individual portions and are often perceived as more celebratory. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, a holiday, or a family get-together, the cake form adds a sense of occasion. The smooth, tangy cream cheese frosting complements the rich banana flavor, taking this dessert to a level of indulgence that banana bread alone can’t match.
The banana bread cake version is also more forgiving when it comes to texture. While banana bread can sometimes become dense or dry, the addition of cake ingredients such as extra eggs, butter, and sour cream helps create a lighter, fluffier texture. This balance of moistness and lightness makes the banana bread cake a wonderful alternative when you’re looking for a banana-infused dessert with a bit more flair.
### **The Cream Cheese Frosting Twist**
One of the key elements that sets the banana bread cake apart from traditional banana bread is the **cream cheese frosting**. The tanginess of the cream cheese perfectly complements the sweetness of the banana cake, creating a balanced flavor profile that’s not overly sweet. The cream cheese frosting adds an indulgent richness that takes the cake to a whole new level, making it even more irresistible.
Whether you opt for a traditional frosting recipe or a more customized version with added flavors such as vanilla or cinnamon, the frosting provides a smooth, silky finish that elevates the overall experience of eating the cake.
## **3. The Ultimate Recipe for Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting**
Now that we’ve covered the history and appeal of banana bread cake, it’s time to get to the fun part—**the recipe**! This banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting is easy to make, even for beginners, and it’s guaranteed to impress everyone who tastes it.
### **Ingredients for Banana Bread Cake**
To make the banana bread cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
#### **For the Cake:**
– **3 ripe bananas** (about 1 ½ cups mashed)
– **2 ½ cups all-purpose flour**
– **1 ½ teaspoons baking powder**
– **½ teaspoon baking soda**
– **½ teaspoon salt**
– **1 teaspoon cinnamon** (optional, but adds great flavor)
– **1 cup unsalted butter**, softened to room temperature
– **1 ½ cups granulated sugar**
– **3 large eggs**, at room temperature
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**
– **1 cup sour cream** or Greek yogurt (for added moisture)
– **½ cup whole milk** (or buttermilk for a tangier taste)
#### **For the Cream Cheese Frosting:**
– **8 oz cream cheese**, softened to room temperature
– **½ cup unsalted butter**, softened to room temperature
– **4 cups powdered sugar**, sifted
– **1 teaspoon vanilla extract**
– **Pinch of salt** (to balance sweetness)
– **1-2 tablespoons milk** (if the frosting is too thick)
### **Instructions for Banana Bread Cake**
#### **Step 1: Preheat the Oven**
Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easier removal.
#### **Step 2: Prepare the Dry Ingredients**
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
#### **Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar**
In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Beat until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. This step is essential for incorporating air into the batter, which will help create a light and airy texture in the cake.
#### **Step 4: Add the Eggs and Vanilla**
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, add the vanilla extract and continue to mix until everything is fully incorporated.
#### **Step 5: Mix in the Mashed Bananas**
Mash the ripe bananas in a separate bowl and fold them into the butter and sugar mixture. The bananas should be very ripe, as they contribute both moisture and flavor to the cake.
#### **Step 6: Alternate Adding the Dry Ingredients and Wet Ingredients**
Add about one-third of the dry flour mixture to the banana mixture, followed by half of the sour cream (or Greek yogurt) and milk. Mix gently, then repeat the process with another third of the dry ingredients and the remaining wet ingredients. End with the final third of the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
#### **Step 7: Bake the Cake**
Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula to ensure an even bake. Bake for **25-30 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer them to wire racks to cool completely.
#### **Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting**
While the cakes are cooling, make the cream cheese frosting. In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, until the frosting reaches your desired consistency. Add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. If the frosting is too thick, add a tablespoon or two of milk to thin it out.
#### **Step 9: Frost the Cake**
Once the cakes have completely cooled, spread a generous amount of frosting on top of the first layer of the banana cake. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting. If you’d like, you can garnish the top with sliced bananas, crushed nuts, or a dusting of cinnamon for added flair.
#### **Step 10: Serve and Enjoy**
Allow the frosted cake to set for about 30 minutes before slicing. This gives the frosting time to firm up a little. Slice into pieces and enjoy! This cake pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings or dessert after a meal.
## **4. Tips and Variations for the Best Banana Bread Cake**
### **1. Use Overripe Bananas**
The riper the bananas, the better the flavor and moisture in the cake. Overripe bananas with brown spots are perfect for banana bread cake, as they are naturally sweeter and softer, which enhances the texture of the cake.
### **2. Add Mix-ins**
While the classic banana bread cake is already delicious on its own, feel free to add your favorite mix-ins for added texture and flavor. Chocolate chips, chopped nuts (such as walnuts or pecans), or even dried fruits like raisins or cranberries would all be excellent additions
.
### **3. Customize the Frosting**
If you want to give the frosting a unique twist, consider adding a bit of lemon zest, maple syrup, or a dash of cinnamon. You can also substitute some of the powdered sugar for cocoa powder for a chocolatey twist.
### **4. Make It Into Cupcakes**
For a fun twist, you can make banana bread cake cupcakes instead of a full cake. Just divide the batter among a muffin tin lined with cupcake liners and bake at the same temperature for about 18-20 minutes. Top with the cream cheese frosting for individual, portable servings.
### **5. Store Properly**
Banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you need to store it for a longer period, you can freeze the un-frosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Frost the cake after thawing for the best results.
## **5. Conclusion**
Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect way to elevate the beloved classic banana bread into an indulgent dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just enjoying a cozy day at home, this moist, flavorful cake with its tangy cream cheese frosting is sure to be a hit. So, grab your ripe bananas, preheat your oven, and start baking your way to a deliciously unforgettable treat.
