Banana Cake
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Experience the moist, fluffy goodness of this delightful Banana Cake recipe, perfect for using up ripe bananas! Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is not only a delicious dessert but also a crowd-pleaser for birthdays and gatherings. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this banana cake is a wonderful treat that will fill your home with a delicious aroma.
This Banana Cake recipe is a family favorite, often requested for special occasions.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Banana Cake recipe is incredibly versatile, making it an ideal dessert for a variety of occasions. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a gathering, or simply craving something sweet, this cake is sure to delight. Its moist texture and rich flavor, complemented by the creamy frosting, make it a crowd-pleaser among both young and old. You can easily customize it with nuts or chocolate chips for an extra touch of indulgence.
Moreover, this cake is perfect for sharing with friends and family. The delightful aroma that fills your kitchen as it bakes sets the perfect mood for any get-together. Don't be surprised if your guests ask for the recipe!
Health Benefits of Bananas
Bananas not only add delicious flavor to your cake but also come packed with health benefits. They are rich in essential nutrients, including potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. Potassium helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health, while vitamin C boosts the immune system. Including bananas in your diet can contribute to overall well-being and digestive health, making this cake a slightly healthier indulgence compared to other desserts.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, ripe bananas enhance the natural sweetness of your cake, allowing you to reduce added sugars without compromising flavor.
Customization and Variations
One of the best things about this Banana Cake recipe is how adaptable it is. You can elevate its flavor by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter. For a chocolate twist, consider folding in chocolate chips or cocoa powder. If you're in the mood for a tropical touch, shredded coconut or crushed pineapple can be added to create a delicious Hawaiian-inspired cake.
You can also experiment with the frosting! Try a chocolate cream cheese frosting for an irresistible chocolate banana combination or a simple glaze for a lighter finish. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this cake uniquely yours!
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
Mix Ingredients
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas and stir in the melted butter. Mix in baking soda and salt. Then add sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
Add Flour
Gently fold in the flour until just combined.
Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Make the Frosting
While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, and mix until smooth.
Frost and Serve
Once the cake is completely cool, frost it with the cream cheese frosting and serve!
Enjoy your delicious Banana Cake!
Tips for Success
For the best results, ensure your bananas are perfectly ripe. The more spots on the banana peel, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Overly ripe bananas not only enhance taste but also make the batter smoother and easier to mix.
When measuring flour, spoon it into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife. This method prevents you from packing the flour too tightly, which can lead to a dense cake.
Storing Your Banana Cake
To keep your Banana Cake fresh and moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. If you plan to keep it longer than a couple of days, refrigerate it. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving to enjoy the best texture and flavor.
If you have leftover cake, it also freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. Just thaw it at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy another slice!
Serving Suggestions
This Banana Cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of tea or a hot cup of coffee, making it an ideal afternoon snack. You can serve it as is or with fresh fruit on the side for an extra health boost. A dollop of whipped cream can also add an elegant touch for special occasions.
For a fun twist, consider serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cake combined with cold ice cream creates a delightful contrast that can elevate any dessert experience. Your guests will love this unexpected treat!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, just thaw them out completely before using.
→ How should I store leftover cake?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Banana Cake
Experience the moist, fluffy goodness of this delightful Banana Cake recipe, perfect for using up ripe bananas! Topped with a rich cream cheese frosting, this cake is not only a delicious dessert but also a crowd-pleaser for birthdays and gatherings. Easy to make and incredibly satisfying, this banana cake is a wonderful treat that will fill your home with a delicious aroma.
Created by: Noelle Chambers
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 8 servings
What You'll Need
For the Cake
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1/3 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- Pinch of salt
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
For the Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas and stir in the melted butter. Mix in baking soda and salt. Then add sugar, beaten egg, and vanilla extract.
Gently fold in the flour until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
While the cake cools, beat the softened cream cheese and butter in a bowl until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, and mix until smooth.
Once the cake is completely cool, frost it with the cream cheese frosting and serve!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 15g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 50g
- Protein: 3g