Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

There’s nothing quite like the comforting taste of banana bread cake. This delightful dessert takes everything you love about classic banana bread—its soft, moist texture and rich banana flavor—and transforms it into a fluffy cake topped with a creamy, tangy cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a dessert for special occasions, this easy-to-make treat is sure to become a favorite.

What makes this banana bread cake stand out? Its irresistible combination of sweet, ripe bananas and warm cinnamon gives it a deep, cozy flavor, while the addition of sour cream or Greek yogurt ensures a moist crumb. The final touch—a luscious layer of cream cheese frosting—elevates this simple cake to a whole new level. If you’re a fan of banana-based treats, you’ll also love exploring different variations of banana bread (learn more about its history) and other homemade banana desserts.

This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly simple to prepare. With just a few pantry staples and a handful of ripe bananas, you can create a bakery-quality cake right in your own kitchen. Plus, you can customize it by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or extra spices to suit your taste. If you enjoy experimenting with homemade baking, check out these baking tips and tricks for even better results (discover expert baking insights). Ready to bake? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Cake

If you love banana bread and crave a soft, fluffy cake with a rich cream cheese frosting, this recipe is perfect for you. Unlike traditional banana bread, which is often dense and more like a loaf, this banana bread cake has a lighter, more delicate crumb while still being moist and full of banana flavor.

Reasons to Try This Recipe:

• Super Moist & Fluffy – Thanks to sour cream or Greek yogurt, this cake stays incredibly tender without being too heavy.
• Easy to Make – No complicated steps or special equipment—just mix, bake, and frost!
• Perfectly Balanced Sweetness – The natural sweetness of ripe bananas means you can use less sugar while still getting a rich flavor.
• Crowd-Pleasing Treat – Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Plus, it’s great for potlucks and family gatherings.
• Pairs Perfectly with Coffee or Tea – The warmth of cinnamon and the creamy frosting make it a perfect companion for your favorite hot drink.
• Customizable – Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips for extra texture and flavor.

If you’re a fan of banana-based treats, you might also enjoy trying different variations of moist banana cake recipes (find inspiration on Pinterest). Plus, if you’re curious about what makes cream cheese frosting so rich and delicious, check out more about it (explore its origins).

This cake isn’t just delicious—it’s also a great way to use up overripe bananas that might otherwise go to waste. So next time you have a few brown-spotted bananas sitting on your counter, you’ll know exactly what to do with them!

Ingredients Breakdown & Their Roles

Understanding the role of each ingredient in this banana bread cake helps ensure a perfect bake every time. Each component contributes to the cake’s moist texture, rich flavor, and balanced sweetness. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this delicious dessert.

Cake Ingredients & Their Purpose

• All-Purpose Flour – The base of the cake, providing structure and stability. If you prefer a slightly healthier version, you can swap half the flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber. (Learn more about flour types).
• Baking Soda – This leavening agent helps the cake rise, creating a light, fluffy texture instead of a dense one. (Discover how baking soda works).
• Salt – Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients while balancing sweetness.
• Cinnamon – Adds a warm, cozy depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with bananas.
• Unsalted Butter (Melted) – Provides richness and ensures the cake stays moist. Using melted butter rather than softened butter helps create a denser crumb, perfect for a banana cake texture.
• Brown Sugar – Adds a subtle caramel-like sweetness and extra moisture. The molasses in brown sugar deepens the cake’s flavor.
• Eggs – Help bind the ingredients together while adding structure and softness to the cake.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor, making the cake taste even more delicious. (Find out why vanilla extract is essential).
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt – This ingredient is key to keeping the cake super moist and tender. The slight tanginess also balances out the sweetness.
• Ripe Bananas (Mashed) – The star ingredient! Overripe bananas add natural sweetness, moisture, and that classic banana bread flavor.

Cream Cheese Frosting Ingredients & Their Purpose

• Cream Cheese (Softened) – Creates a rich, creamy frosting with a slight tang that perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Unsalted Butter (Softened) – Adds smoothness and a velvety texture.
• Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and thickens the frosting without making it too heavy.
• Vanilla Extract – Enhances the frosting’s flavor, giving it a warm, aromatic touch.

Optional Garnishes

• Chopped Walnuts or Pecans – Adds a crunchy contrast to the soft cake.
• Banana Slices – A decorative and flavorful topping for an extra banana boost.

If you’re looking for more ideas to enhance your homemade banana desserts, check out these creative recipes (explore banana dessert ideas). Whether you keep it simple or add extra toppings, this cake is sure to impress!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making this banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting is incredibly easy. Just follow these simple steps to create a soft, moist, and flavorful cake topped with a rich, creamy frosting.

Preparing the Cake

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan to prevent sticking.
2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Combine the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter and brown sugar until well blended.
4. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mixing until smooth and creamy. The sour cream ensures a moist, tender texture.
5. Incorporate the mashed bananas into the wet mixture, stirring until fully combined. Overripe bananas work best for a naturally sweet, rich flavor.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the cake dense instead of fluffy.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cake should be lightly golden and spring back when touched.
9. Let the cake cool completely before adding the frosting. If the cake is warm, the frosting will melt and become too runny.

Want to learn more about the science behind baking? Check out this guide on how baking soda works to create the perfect cake texture (read more).

Making the Cream Cheese Frosting & Assembling the Cake

10. Beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until smooth and creamy.
11. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until light and fluffy. The powdered sugar thickens the frosting while the vanilla extract enhances the flavor.
12. Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake. Use a spatula to smooth it out for a clean finish.
13. Garnish (optional): Sprinkle with chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture, or top with banana slices for extra flavor.
14. Slice and serve! Enjoy your delicious banana bread cake with a cup of coffee or tea.

For more frosting inspiration, check out different cream cheese frosting variations that can be used for cakes, cupcakes, and other desserts (explore recipes).

By following these steps, you’ll have a perfectly moist and flavorful banana bread cake with a luscious cream cheese frosting that’s impossible to resist!

Expert Tips for Perfect Banana Bread Cake

Want to make the best banana bread cake every time? Follow these expert tips to ensure your cake turns out moist, flavorful, and perfectly baked.

1. Use Overripe Bananas for Maximum Flavor

• The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with brown spots or even fully browned skins.
• If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag for a day or two.
• Need ripe bananas immediately? Bake them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes until they turn soft and dark.

2. Don’t Overmix the Batter

• Overmixing can lead to a dense, tough cake instead of a soft, tender crumb.
• Stir the batter just until combined—a few lumps are okay!

3. Measure Ingredients Accurately

• Using too much flour can result in a dry cake. For best results, spoon the flour into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife.
• If substituting ingredients, like swapping Greek yogurt for sour cream, keep the ratio the same to maintain the cake’s moist texture.

4. Let the Cake Cool Before Frosting

• If the cake is even slightly warm, the cream cheese frosting will melt and become runny. Be patient and let the cake cool completely before frosting.
• For a neater finish, refrigerate the frosted cake for about 15 minutes before slicing.

5. Store the Cake Properly for Freshness

• Refrigerate: Since this cake contains cream cheese frosting, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
• Freeze: If you want to make the cake ahead of time, freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

If you love baking, check out these expert baking tips to elevate your skills even further (read more).

By following these simple but effective tips, you’ll master the art of making the perfect banana bread cake every time!

Variations & Customization Ideas

One of the best things about banana bread cake is how versatile it is! Whether you prefer a nutty crunch, a chocolatey twist, or a healthier version, there are plenty of ways to customize this cake to suit your taste.

1. Nutty Banana Bread Cake

• Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch and a rich, nutty flavor.
• Sprinkle extra nuts on top of the cream cheese frosting for added texture.
• Walnuts are a great addition because they complement the sweetness of the bananas while adding healthy fats.

2. Chocolate Chip Banana Cake

• Stir ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking for a banana-chocolate flavor combo.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer taste or milk chocolate for extra sweetness.
• Want more chocolate? Drizzle melted chocolate over the frosting for an extra indulgent touch.

3. Healthier Version

• Swap ½ of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
• Use coconut sugar or honey instead of brown sugar for a natural sweetener alternative.
• Replace butter with coconut oil or applesauce for a lighter option.

4. Spiced Banana Cake

• Enhance the warmth of the cake by adding:
  • ½ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • A pinch of cloves
• These spices give the cake a cozy, autumn-inspired flavor.

5. Dairy-Free Adaptation

• Replace butter with dairy-free butter or coconut oil.
• Use a plant-based yogurt instead of sour cream or Greek yogurt.
• Choose a dairy-free cream cheese alternative for the frosting.

For more creative banana dessert ideas, check out these homemade banana treats that go beyond just cake (explore recipes).

These variations allow you to put your own twist on this classic banana bread cake, making it even more delicious and personalized!

Serving & Storage Tips

To fully enjoy your banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting, it’s important to serve and store it correctly. Here’s how to keep it fresh, moist, and delicious for as long as possible.

Best Way to Serve Banana Bread Cake

• Room Temperature: This cake tastes best when served at room temperature, allowing the flavors to shine. If refrigerated, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes before serving.
• With Coffee or Tea: The rich banana flavor and creamy frosting pair perfectly with a hot cup of coffee or tea.
• Extra Toppings: If desired, add extra banana slices, a drizzle of honey, or a sprinkle of cinnamon just before serving for a decorative and flavorful touch.

How to Store Banana Bread Cake

Short-Term Storage (Refrigeration)

• Since the cake is topped with cream cheese frosting, it should be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 5 days—just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best texture.

Freezing for Long-Term Storage

• Freezing the Cake (Unfrosted)

  • Wrap the completely cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil.
  • Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  • When ready to use, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight and frost before serving.

• Freezing the Cake (Frosted)

  • If already frosted, place the cake in the freezer for 1 hour to firm up the frosting.
  • Once solid, wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw in the fridge overnight and let it sit at room temperature before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

• You can bake the cake a day ahead and store it at room temperature in an airtight container before frosting it.
• The cream cheese frosting can also be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days—just give it a quick mix before spreading it on the cake.

If you’re looking for more dessert storage tips and ways to keep baked goods fresh, check out this easy dessert guide for inspiration (discover more).

By following these tips, you’ll keep your banana bread cake tasting fresh and delicious, whether you’re enjoying it today or saving it for later!

FAQs

Here are some commonly asked questions about making banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting.

1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! If you have frozen bananas, let them thaw at room temperature and drain any excess liquid before mashing. Frozen bananas tend to be even sweeter, making them perfect for baking.

2. Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Simply swap the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure your blend contains xanthan gum to maintain the cake’s texture.

3. Can I bake this in a different pan?

Yes, but the baking time may vary:

• 9-inch round cake pan: Bake for 30-35 minutes.
• Loaf pan: Bake for 50-60 minutes (similar to banana bread).
• Cupcakes: Bake for 18-22 minutes—perfect for portion control!

4. Why is my cake dense instead of fluffy?

If your cake turns out too dense, it could be due to:

• Overmixing the batter—stir just until combined.
• Using too much flour—measure accurately by spooning the flour into the measuring cup and leveling it off.
• Not enough baking soda—ensure your baking soda is fresh and active (learn more about baking soda).

5. Can I make this cake without frosting?

Definitely! This banana bread cake is delicious on its own. If you prefer a lighter topping, try a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk or a dusting of cinnamon sugar.

For more creative ways to enjoy banana desserts, check out these banana baking ideas for inspiration (find ideas here).

With these FAQs, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to bake the perfect banana bread cake every time!

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

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This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the perfect combination of soft, moist banana bread and a light, fluffy cake. Made with ripe bananas, warm cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla, this cake is packed with flavor and topped with a rich, creamy cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a special occasion, this cake is guaranteed to impress. It’s easy to make, requires simple ingredients, and can be customized with nuts, chocolate chips, or extra spices. One bite, and you’ll be hooked!

If you love banana bread, you’ll enjoy this lighter, cake-like version that’s just as comforting and delicious. Looking for more banana dessert ideas? Check out these homemade banana treats for inspiration (explore more).

• Author: Clara

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed

For the cream cheese frosting:

• 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For garnish (optional):

• Chopped walnuts or pecans
• Banana slices

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the melted butter and brown sugar until well combined.
4. Add the eggs, vanilla extract, and sour cream (or Greek yogurt), mixing until smooth.
5. Stir in the mashed bananas until fully incorporated.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread evenly.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let cool completely.
9. To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
10. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until creamy and well combined.
11. Spread the frosting over the cooled cake and garnish with chopped walnuts or banana slices if desired.
12. Slice and serve!

Notes

• Use overripe bananas for the best flavor and natural sweetness. Bananas with dark brown spots work best.
• Do not overmix the batter. Stir just until combined to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• For a healthier option, substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour and use honey or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.
• The cake must be completely cool before frosting to prevent the cream cheese frosting from melting.
• Storage Tips:
  • Keep the cake refrigerated for up to 5 days in an airtight container.
  • Freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months and add frosting before serving.

For more tips on making the best banana cakes, check out these expert baking tips (discover more). Enjoy your delicious homemade banana bread cake! 🍌