This banana bread cake is everything you love about classic banana bread, but softer, lighter, and baked as a tender cake that feels special enough for any occasion. Ripe bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture, while a smooth cream cheese frosting adds just the right balance of richness. It’s the kind of homemade dessert that fills the kitchen with warmth and disappears quickly once sliced.
Ingredients:
For the cake:
3 ripe bananas, mashed
2 large eggs, room temperature
½ cup vegetable oil or melted butter
¾ cup granulated sugar
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon baking powder
½ teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For the cream cheese frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
1½ cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a rectangular or square baking pan with parchment paper, leaving a slight overhang for easy removal.
In a large bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Whisk in the eggs, oil, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is well combined and glossy.
In a separate bowl, mix the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring gently just until no streaks of flour remain. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake soft and tender.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan before frosting.
To make the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, then continue beating until light, fluffy, and spreadable.
Once the cake has cooled, generously spread the cream cheese frosting over the top. Slice into squares and serve.
Serving Notes:
This banana bread cake tastes even better after it rests for a few hours, allowing the flavors to deepen. It’s perfect for afternoon coffee, family gatherings, or as a comforting homemade dessert any day of the week. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture and flavor.
