Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – Easy Recipe
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Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – Easy Recipe
A Perfectly Moist Banana Bread Cake with Tangy Cream Cheese Frosting
Hello, fellow baking enthusiasts! Today, we are diving into an incredibly moist banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting—a dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, tangy frosting. Whether you’re looking for a banana loaf with decadent cream cheese frosting or simply a comforting, homemade treat, this recipe will guide you to a delightful end result. Did you know that approximately 70% of home bakers consider banana bread a go-to comfort food? This recipe elevates that beloved classic into a stunning cake, perfect for any occasion. Let’s get started on this mouthwatering adventure!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 3 large, very ripe bananas, mashed (about 1 ½ cups) expect them to be speckled and soft for maximum sweetness
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened for that rich, buttery base
- ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar or brown sugar for a deeper molasses note
- 2 large eggs room temperature eggs emulsify better
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract pure vanilla extract makes a difference
- 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour sifted for a lighter texture
- 1 teaspoon baking soda essential for leavening
- ½ teaspoon salt enhances all the flavors
- Optional: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch
- Optional: ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon adds a warm spice note
- 8 ounces (226g) cream cheese, softened full-fat cream cheese yields the best texture
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened balances the tang of the cream cheese
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar, sifted sift to avoid lumps
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for a touch of sweetness
- 1-2 tablespoons milk or cream (optional) to achieve desired consistency
Timing is Everything
Compared to a traditional banana bread loaf that often takes over an hour to bake, this cake bakes up much quicker. This means you can satisfy your banana bread cravings in less time!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
First things first, get your oven ready! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. A well-prepped pan is key to a cake that releases beautifully.
Step 2: Wet Ingredients Alchemy
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes with an electric mixer. Then, beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the mashed bananas and the vanilla extract. Your batter should smell wonderfully fragrant at this point!
Step 3: Dry Ingredients Marriage
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the sifted flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Whisking ensures that the leavening agents are evenly distributed throughout the dry ingredients, which is crucial for an even rise.
Step 4: Combine and Fold
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing on low speed (or by hand) until *just* combined. Be careful not to overmix! Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake. If you’re adding nuts, gently fold them in now. The batter will be thick, but luscious.
Step 5: Baking Magic
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared baking pan. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer or toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen will be simply divine!
Step 6: Cream Cheese Frosting Creation
While the cake is cooling, prepare the frosting. In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and softened butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the sifted powdered sugar, about a cup at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add milk or cream, one tablespoon at a time, until it reaches your desired spreading consistency. Whip it until it’s light and fluffy!
Step 7: Frost and Decorate
Once the banana bread cake has cooled completely (this is important, otherwise the frosting will melt!), spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. For an extra touch, you can garnish with a few extra chopped nuts or a drizzle of melted chocolate. Slice and serve, and prepare for rave reviews!
Nutritional Highlights
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 per slice (varies based on frosting and additions).
- Fat: Rich in healthy fats from butter and cream cheese.
- Carbohydrates: Primarily from flour and natural sugars in bananas.
- Protein: From eggs and flour.
- This recipe is a delightful treat, best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Healthier Swaps & Flavor Preservers
Looking to make this treat a little lighter without sacrificing flavor? Try these simple substitutions:
- Flour: Replace half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added fiber.
- Sugar: Reduce the sugar in the cake by ¼ cup, or use maple syrup or honey (adjusting other liquid ingredients slightly). For the frosting, experiment with a cream cheese frosting sweetened with a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia.
- Fat: In the cake, you can substitute half the butter with unsweetened applesauce or Greek yogurt for a moist crumb and reduced fat. For the frosting, using less butter and a bit more cream cheese can also lighten it up.
Serving Suggestions
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a star on its own! It’s perfect for:
- A delightful breakfast or brunch treat.
- An afternoon pick-me-up with your favorite cup of coffee or tea.
- Dessert for potlucks, parties, or family gatherings.
- A thoughtful homemade gift for friends and loved ones.
- Serve with a dollop of extra whipped cream or a fresh berry medley for added elegance.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even the most seasoned bakers can make a slip-up. Here are a few common pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overmixing the batter: This is the quickest way to a tough, dense cake. Mix until ingredients are just combined.
- Using underripe bananas: For that signature banana flavor and sweetness, always use bananas with plenty of brown spots.
- Frosting a warm cake: Patience is key! Ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting to prevent a melted mess.
- Not sifting dry ingredients: Sifting flour and powdered sugar helps prevent lumps and ensures a smoother texture in both the cake and frosting.
Storing Your Banana Bread Cake
To keep your delicious creation fresh:
- Room Temperature: Store the frosted cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. The cream cheese frosting makes refrigeration optimal. Let it come to room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before serving for the best texture.
- Freezing: While it’s best fresh, you can freeze unfrosted cake layers (if you made a layer cake variation) or individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
A Slice of Heaven Awaits!
There you have it – a foolproof recipe for an incredibly moist Banana Bread Cake with luscious Cream Cheese Frosting! This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, transforming humble ingredients into a dessert that’s both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re a beginner baker or a seasoned pro, this cake is sure to become a favorite. So, gather your ripe bananas, preheat your ovens, and get ready to bake up some joy. Don’t forget to share your creations with us – we love seeing your baking adventures!
Frequently Asked Questions
***What makes bananas “very ripe” for this recipe?***
Very ripe bananas are typically those that are heavily spotted, almost black, and soft to the touch. The riper the banana, the sweeter and more potent its flavor, which is ideal for banana bread and cakes.
***Can I make this recipe as muffins or cupcakes?***
Absolutely! You can easily adapt this recipe to make muffins or cupcakes. Line a muffin tin with liners and fill each about two-thirds full. Baking time will be shorter, typically 18-22 minutes, so keep an eye on them and test for doneness with a toothpick.
***My cake is a little gummy. What went wrong?***
A gummy texture usually indicates overmixing the batter or that the cake was not baked long enough. Ensure you mix just until the ingredients are combined and bake until a toothpick comes out clean. Over-ripe bananas can also sometimes contribute a slightly denser texture if not balanced with the correct leavening.
***Can I use a different type of frosting?***
Certainly! While the cream cheese frosting is divine, you could also use a classic vanilla buttercream, a chocolate ganache, or even a simple dusting of powdered sugar for a lighter touch. Just ensure the cake is completely cool before frosting.
***How do I prevent my cake from sinking in the middle?***
Ensure your baking soda is fresh and your oven is at the correct temperature. Avoid opening the oven door too early during baking, as the sudden temperature change can cause the cake to fall. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a weakened structure.
Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting – Easy Recipe
Hello, fellow baking enthusiasts! Today, we are diving into an incrediblymoist banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting—a dessert that perfectly balances the sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich, tangy frosting. Whether you’re looking for abanana loaf with decadent cream cheese frostingor simply a comforting, homemade treat, this recipe will guide you to a delightful end result. Let’s get started on this mouthwatering adventure!
Ingredients
- Optional substitutions: For a dairy-free version, try using a dairy-free butter and non-dairy cream cheese. For a lighter alternative, substitute the sour cream with plain Greek yogurt.
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper to ensure easy removal later.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set this aside for later.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in the sour cream and mashed bananas until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- While the bread is cooling, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue mixing until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Once the bread is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Notes
Banana Selection: For the best flavor, use bananas that are overly ripe with brown spots.
Storage Tip: Ensure the banana bread cools completely before applying the frosting to prevent it from melting.
Customization: You can add chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the batter for extra texture and flavor.
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