Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Name: Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 2 h 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, softened; 1½ cups granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup full-fat sour cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 cup mashed bananas (about 3 ripe bananas); 1/2 cup (1 stick) salted butter, softened (for frosting); 8 oz full-fat cream cheese; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting); 2 tablespoons heavy whipping cream

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Looking for the ultimate banana dessert that’s part cake, part banana bread, and fully irresistible? This banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting brings together the dense, moist richness of banana bread with the soft crumb of a classic cake—all topped with a velvety layer of cream cheese frosting. Whether you’re baking for a family gathering or just want to use up those overripe bananas, this easy one-bowl recipe is sure to become a go-to.

This guide walks you through the secrets behind the perfect banana cake texture, how to whip up a thick, luscious frosting, and tips to make it bakery-worthy every time. Don’t miss our collection of homemade desserts for more sweet inspiration.

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The Secret to a Perfect Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Why this banana cake stands out

Unlike traditional banana bread, this banana bread cake bakes up fluffier while still maintaining a moist, rich texture. The key lies in the balance of fat, moisture, and banana content. What sets it apart? The cream cheese frosting layered on top creates a luxurious finish that’s not too sweet but perfectly creamy.

The key ingredients that make it extra moist

A few key ingredients elevate this banana cake from average to extraordinary:

Full-fat sour cream – Adds creaminess and depth
Ripe bananas – Naturally sweet and flavorful
Salted butter – Balances sweetness and enhances richness
Heavy cream in the frosting – Fluffier and holds its shape

Each of these plays a vital role in the final texture. If you’ve only used bananas and oil before, you’re in for a game-changing upgrade.

Full-fat vs light ingredients: what works best?

When it comes to banana cake, don’t skimp on fat. While light sour cream or reduced-fat cream cheese may seem like healthier options, they lack the structure and flavor needed for a dense, satisfying crumb. Full-fat dairy brings moisture and richness that lower-fat versions simply can’t replicate.

Pro Tip: Using full-fat cream cheese ensures your frosting pipes or spreads beautifully without becoming runny.

Discover great ideas like this in our cranberry pecan cheese ball recipe, where richness makes all the difference.

Step-by-Step Banana Bread Cake Recipe

Ingredients list for cake and frosting

Here’s everything you need for the cake and frosting—no fancy ingredients, just pantry staples that deliver big flavor.

For the Banana Bread Cake:

Ingredient	Quantity
Salted butter (softened)	½ cup
Granulated sugar	1½ cups
Eggs	2 large
Full-fat sour cream	1 cup
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
All-purpose flour	2 cups
Baking soda	1 tsp
Salt	¼ tsp
Mashed bananas	1 cup (about 3 ripe bananas)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

Ingredient	Quantity
Salted butter (softened)	½ cup
Cream cheese (full-fat, block style)	8 oz
Powdered sugar	3 cups
Vanilla extract	1 tsp
Heavy cream	2 tbsp

Check out how these base ingredients can transform into other treats, like our pineapple cream cheese pound cake—another moist favorite.

How to prepare the batter perfectly

In one large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This may take 2–3 minutes on medium-high speed. Add the eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract. Mix until fully blended. Stir in the dry ingredients—flour, baking soda, and salt—just until combined. Finally, gently fold in the mashed bananas.

Avoid overmixing at this stage to keep the cake tender. The batter should look thick but spreadable.

Baking time, temperature, and doneness tips

Pour the batter into a greased 9×13-inch baking pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with moist crumbs. The edges should turn golden brown and start to pull slightly away from the pan.

Let the cake cool completely in the pan before frosting. This ensures a smooth surface and prevents the frosting from melting.

Want another festive option? Don’t miss our reindeer cupcakes party recipe for holiday fun.

How to make fluffy cream cheese frosting

In a clean bowl, beat the butter and cream cheese until creamy and smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually, followed by vanilla and heavy cream. Start with low speed to prevent sugar splatter, then increase to medium-high until the frosting is thick and fluffy.

Consistency Check: The frosting should hold its shape but still be spreadable. If too thick, add a tiny splash of heavy cream. If too thin, sift in extra powdered sugar.

Looking for inspiration? Try our raspberry linzer cookies dessert for a fruity twist with frosting skills.

Expert Tips for Baking and Storing Banana Cake

Make-ahead tips & storage recommendations

This banana bread cake actually tastes better the next day. That’s right—letting it rest enhances the banana flavor and improves texture. To make it ahead:

Bake the cake fully, then let it cool in the pan
Cover tightly with foil and store at room temperature overnight
Frost it the next day a few hours before serving

If storing after frosting, keep it in the fridge covered with foil or plastic wrap. It stays fresh for up to 4 days. Want to freeze it? Wrap the unfrosted cake in plastic and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months.

Don’t miss our chessman banana pudding dessert if you’re looking for more banana-forward treats you can prep ahead.

Cold vs room temperature serving: what’s best?

There’s no wrong answer here—it’s all about personal preference. Serve this banana cake chilled for a firmer bite and enhanced cream cheese flavor. Prefer a fluffier texture? Let it sit at room temp for about 30 minutes before slicing.

Test both and see which version hits the sweet spot for you.

Garnish ideas for a bakery-style finish

If you want to dress up your banana bread cake for a party or special occasion, here are some simple but effective toppings:

Sliced bananas (add just before serving)
Chopped toasted walnuts or pecans
A sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg
Mini chocolate chips or white chocolate shavings

Presentation makes all the difference. For example, the finish on our pink marble cake shows how minimal toppings can create a showstopper.

Banana Cake Troubleshooting & Pro Tips

Common banana cake fails and fixes

Even seasoned bakers run into issues with banana cakes. Here’s how to avoid the most common ones:

Problem	Cause	Fix
Cake too dense	Overmixed batter	Stir just until combined
Cake didn’t rise	Expired baking soda	Always check freshness
Wet center	Underbaked	Extend bake time 3–5 mins
Frosting too runny	Low-fat cream cheese or too much cream	Use full-fat cream cheese and measure cream carefully

How to ensure your frosting is thick and fluffy

Heavy whipping cream is the MVP here. Its high fat content helps whip the frosting into a firm yet silky consistency. If you’re using anything other than heavy cream (like milk or half-and-half), reduce the amount significantly—start with a teaspoon and increase slowly.

Another trick: Chill your bowl and beaters before mixing the frosting. Cold tools help maintain stiffness and prevent your frosting from turning runny in warmer kitchens.

Why sour cream is non-negotiable

If there’s one ingredient you don’t want to skip or swap, it’s full-fat sour cream. It does more than just add moisture—it enhances the structure and creates a tender crumb that doesn’t dry out. You simply can’t replicate that richness with yogurt or low-fat alternatives.

For another example of a dessert that thrives on moisture and fat content, don’t miss our boozy eggnog bundt cake recipe.

Variations & Add-Ons to Elevate Your Banana Cake

Adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices

If you want to personalize your banana bread cake, try these mix-in options:

Chopped walnuts or pecans: Add crunch and earthy flavor
Mini chocolate chips: Go milk or dark for richness
Spices: Add ½ tsp of cinnamon or nutmeg for warm notes
Toffee bits or shredded coconut: For a tropical flair

Stir into the batter right before pouring it into the pan. Keep total mix-ins under 1 cup to maintain cake structure.

Banana cupcakes or layer cake adaptation

Want to convert this into a celebration-worthy dessert? Here’s how:

Banana Cupcakes: Scoop into lined muffin tins and bake at 350°F for 18–22 minutes.
Layer Cake: Divide batter between two 8-inch round cake pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes. Cool and frost as a layered cake.

This recipe is incredibly versatile. And if you’re going the cupcake route, try decorating them like our festive crinkle cookies for a holiday-ready look.

Healthier tweaks without losing flavor

Want to make a few smart swaps? Here’s how to lighten it up slightly:

Use Greek yogurt in place of sour cream (but note texture change)
Replace ½ cup sugar with mashed ripe dates or maple syrup
Use whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber
Reduce frosting quantity or skip heavy cream (though you’ll sacrifice fluffiness)

Keep in mind: flavor and texture may shift slightly. Banana desserts are naturally sweet and forgiving, so experimenting is safe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze banana bread cake?

Yes. Let the cake cool completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze without frosting for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then frost before serving.

How ripe should bananas be for banana cake?

The riper, the better. Use bananas that are heavily speckled or blackened. They offer more natural sweetness and moisture. Avoid green or yellow bananas—they’re too firm and not sweet enough.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes. Use a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour with xanthan gum. Brands like King Arthur or Bob’s Red Mill work well. Keep an eye on baking time, as gluten-free flours can change texture slightly.

Is this recipe suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. It’s a one-bowl cake that doesn’t require special equipment. The ingredients are simple, and the steps are straightforward. Plus, frosting it doesn’t need to be fancy—just spread and serve.

Conclusion: Why This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting Is a Must-Bake

From its ultra-moist crumb to the thick, creamy frosting, this banana bread cake with cream cheese frosting hits all the right notes. It’s rich without being heavy, sweet but not cloying, and customizable to suit any occasion. Whether served at a brunch, brought to a potluck, or simply enjoyed at home with coffee, this cake delivers both flavor and comfort.

Check out our gingerbread loaf cake dessert recipe for another cozy baked treat with bold flavors.

Looking for inspiration? Try our cranberry-orange muffins to keep your oven busy with banana’s favorite fall companions.

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