Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful twist on the classic banana bread, taking it to a whole new level with the addition of rich cream cheese frosting. This moist, flavorful cake is a perfect combination of sweet, banana flavor and creamy, tangy frosting. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to enjoy with a cup of coffee or need a show-stopping treat for a gathering, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients

For the Banana Cake:

• 2 ripe bananas
• 1/2 cup butter
• 1 cup sugar
• 2 eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese
• 1/4 cup butter
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the bananas and set them aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well to combine.
4. Stir in the mashed bananas and mix until smooth.
5. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the banana mixture, stirring just until combined.
6. If desired, fold in the chopped walnuts for extra texture and flavor.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting. Beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until the frosting is fluffy and well-combined.
9. Once the banana bread cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting on top.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Chocolate Chips: For an extra indulgent treat, stir in 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter before baking.
• Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and use dairy-free butter and cream cheese for a vegan-friendly version.
• Fruit Add-ins: You can add other fruits like blueberries or strawberries to the batter for added sweetness and flavor.
• Cinnamon Spice: Add a teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.

Storage and Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover banana bread cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week.
• Reheating: If you prefer your cake warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds.

10 FAQs

1. Can I use frozen bananas?
   • Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly for this recipe. Just thaw them before mashing.
2. Can I use a different pan size?
   • You can use a different size pan, but you may need to adjust the baking time. A larger pan will cook the cake more quickly, while a smaller pan may take longer.
3. How can I tell when the cake is done?
   • Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
4. Can I make this cake without frosting?
   • Yes, the banana bread cake is delicious on its own, or you can serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar instead.
5. Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?
   • Yes, you can substitute walnuts with other nuts such as pecans or almonds for a different flavor.
6. Can I make the frosting in advance?
   • Yes, you can prepare the cream cheese frosting ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Let it come to room temperature before spreading on the cake.
7. Can I freeze this cake?
   • Yes, this banana bread cake freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before serving.
8. Can I substitute the butter with oil?
   • Yes, you can use vegetable oil or coconut oil instead of butter. Use about 1/2 cup of oil in place of the butter.
9. How do I prevent the frosting from being too runny?
   • Make sure the cream cheese and butter are at room temperature before mixing. If the frosting is too thin, add a bit more powdered sugar to thicken it.
10. How long will the cake last?

• This cake will stay fresh for up to 3 days at room temperature, or up to a week in the fridge. Be sure to store it in an airtight container.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delicious and moist dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. The rich, sweet banana cake pairs wonderfully with the creamy, tangy frosting, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Simple to make and full of flavor, it’s a must-try recipe for anyone who loves banana bread with a twist.

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