Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a moist, flavorful dessert that combines the comforting taste of banana bread with the rich decadence of a classic cake. Topped with a silky cream cheese frosting, this treat is perfect for celebrations, brunches, or a sweet snack any time of day. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas paired with the tangy frosting creates an irresistible combination.

ingredients

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

ripe bananasall-purpose flourgranulated sugarsour creameggsunsalted buttervanilla extractbaking sodasaltground cinnamonground nutmegcream cheese (for frosting)powdered sugar (for frosting)heavy cream or milk (for frosting)

directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.

In a large mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas until smooth.

Add sugar, melted butter, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract to the mashed bananas and whisk until well combined.

In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.

Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.

Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool completely in the pan.

To make the frosting, beat softened cream cheese and butter together until smooth.

Gradually add powdered sugar, then beat in vanilla and a splash of heavy cream or milk until fluffy and spreadable.

Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the cooled cake.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12–15 servings.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 30–35 minutes
Cooling and frosting time: 45–60 minutes
Total time: 1.5–2 hours

Variations

Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra texture.
Fold in mini chocolate chips for a dessert twist.
Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
Top with sliced bananas or a dusting of cinnamon before serving.

storage/reheating

Store Banana Bread Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze individual slices (wrapped tightly) for up to 2 months.
To enjoy warm, microwave a slice for 15–20 seconds.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes, thaw and drain excess liquid before using.

Is this cake very sweet?
It has a balanced sweetness, with ripe bananas and frosting adding natural and creamy sweetness.

Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake and frost the day before for best flavor and texture.

Can I make it without frosting?
Yes, it’s still delicious served plain or with a dusting of powdered sugar.

Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can substitute up to half with whole wheat flour for a slightly denser texture.

What if I don’t have sour cream?
Greek yogurt is a great substitute.

Can I use a different pan size?
Yes, adjust baking time if using a different size or shape.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for best results.

Does it need to be refrigerated?
Yes, due to the cream cheese frosting.

Can I double the recipe?
Yes, for larger gatherings, double and bake in two pans.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting brings the best of both worlds—banana bread comfort and cake indulgence. Whether for a family gathering or a personal treat, its moist crumb and luscious topping make it a crowd-pleaser you’ll want to bake again and again.