Banana Cake Recipe

If there’s one dessert I can never say no to, it’s Banana Cake. Moist, tender, and packed with that irresistible natural sweetness from really ripe bananas, this cake is a childhood favorite that just never gets old. Whether you enjoy it plain, slathered with rich cream cheese frosting, or with a crunch of walnuts inside, each bite feels like an enormous, delicious hug. Banana Cake always brings good vibes to any table—it’s the kind of treat that turns a cozy afternoon into a celebration and makes sure no overripe banana gets left behind!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this cake is just how simple and effective each ingredient is. They come together to make something truly delightful: soft, fragrant, lightly spiced, and with that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. Here’s what you’ll want for the most memorable Banana Cake:

• All-purpose flour: This is the foundation of your cake, providing structure and softness in every bite.
• Baking soda: Gives your cake the lift and airiness that make it so tempting.
• Salt: Just a bit, to balance the sweetness and enhance all the other flavors beautifully.
• Unsalted butter (softened): Adds richness and helps your cake turn out perfectly tender.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake, while also aiding in that gorgeous golden color.
• Brown sugar (packed): Provides a subtle molasses depth and extra moisture.
• Eggs: Essential for binding everything together and giving the cake structure.
• Vanilla extract: Infuses your Banana Cake with a cozy, classic aroma.
• Sour cream: The secret weapon for super-moist, luscious crumb every time.
• Ripe bananas (mashed): Use very ripe bananas with spotty skins for the sweetest, deepest banana flavor.
• Chopped walnuts (optional): Mix these in for toasty crunch, or leave out for a nut-free treat.
• Cream cheese frosting (optional): A swoosh of tangy, creamy frosting takes the cake into full-on celebration mode.

How to Make Banana Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and take a moment to grease a 9×13-inch baking pan. This step ensures your Banana Cake pops out like a dream once it’s baked. There’s something about the gentle smell of butter and bananas filling the kitchen that already gets your mouth watering before the mixing even starts!

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Whisking not only distributes everything evenly but also keeps your cake nice and light. This simple step sets the foundation for a perfectly balanced Banana Cake.

Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugars

Grab a large bowl and beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until the mixture is pale and fluffy. This process creates tiny air pockets that result in a light, tender crumb—a secret to irresistible Banana Cake!

Step 4: Add the Eggs, Vanilla, and Sour Cream

Crack in the eggs one at a time, blending well after each. Stir in the vanilla extract and sour cream, which lend that distinctive moistness and cozy aroma Banana Cake lovers crave. Your batter will start to look silky at this point, and you’ll know you’re on the right track.

Step 5: Fold in the Bananas

Now comes the star of the show: mashed bananas! Mix them in gently until you have a smooth, creamy batter. The bananas not only boost flavor, but they guarantee that sweet, dreamy bite Banana Cake is famous for.

Step 6: Combine and Optional Add-Ins

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, stirring just until blended. If you’re using walnuts, fold them in now for a subtle crunch and a classic touch. The key is not to overmix—just enough to bring everything together.

Step 7: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it out evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for about 30–35 minutes. When a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean (a few moist crumbs are fine!), your Banana Cake is done. Let it cool completely before frosting or slicing—it smells so wonderful you might be tempted to dig in early!

How to Serve Banana Cake

Garnishes

To make your Banana Cake look absolutely irresistible, sprinkle the top with a handful of extra chopped walnuts, fresh banana slices, or dust with a little cinnamon. Of course, a thick swirl of cream cheese frosting never fails to impress!

Side Dishes

Pair a generous slice of Banana Cake with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a dreamy dessert, or with a mug of hot coffee or tea for the perfect afternoon treat. If you’re hosting, try serving it with a bowl of fresh berries on the side for a pop of color and tartness.

Creative Ways to Present

This versatile cake can be turned into cupcakes, a simple loaf, or even layered into a showstopper with extra frosting and caramel drizzle. Cut into bite-sized squares for a party platter or stack with cream and fruit for an easy, elegant trifle. Banana Cake truly shines in any format!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Banana Cake stores beautifully at room temperature for up to two days when wrapped well or kept in an airtight container. If you’ve frosted it, pop it in the fridge to keep the topping creamy and fresh.

Freezing

To extend its life, freeze unfrosted Banana Cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. You can also freeze individual slices for grab-and-go treats. Just be sure to add any frosting after thawing for the best texture.

Reheating

Warm a slice gently in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to bring back that bakery-fresh fluffiness. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying chilled or reheating for that just-baked magic.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for this Banana Cake?

Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing and adding to the batter. Frozen bananas are often even sweeter, making your cake super flavorful.

Is it necessary to add walnuts?

Nope! Walnuts are totally optional. Leave them out for a nut-free Banana Cake or substitute with pecans, chocolate chips, or even dried fruit for a twist.

Can I make Banana Cake gluten-free?

Definitely—simply swap in your favorite gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Just make sure it contains xanthan gum or a similar binder for the best results.

What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?

If you need perfectly ripe bananas in a hurry, pop them (unpeeled) on a baking sheet and bake at 300°F (150°C) for about 15 minutes. Let them cool, peel, and they’re mash-ready!

Can I make this Banana Cake into cupcakes?

Yes! Just divide the batter among lined muffin tins and bake at the same temperature for 18–22 minutes. They’re a huge hit for parties or lunchbox treats.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect excuse to use up those spotted bananas, this Banana Cake is it! It’s cozy, simple, and sure to be a hit whether you go classic or dress it up with all the trimmings. Give it a try—you’ll see why it’s an all-time favorite in so many homes!

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