Banana Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
If you’re looking for a moist and flavorful dessert, this banana cake with cream cheese frosting is a must-try! The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs perfectly with a rich, velvety cream cheese frosting, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a casual family gathering, this cake will surely impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.
Ingredients
– 2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– For the frosting:
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 4 cups powdered sugar
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, while baking takes 30-35 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 slice): approximately 300 calories, 15g fat, 40g carbohydrates, 3g protein. This nutritional information is based on a standard slice of cake.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
4. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with sour cream.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
10. While the cake cools, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth and creamy.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Additionally, Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lower-calorie version, while maple syrup can be used instead of sugar for added flavor.
Serving and Pairings
This banana cake pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee or tea. You can also serve it alongside fresh fruit or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful dessert experience.
Storage and Reheating
Store the banana cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before serving.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using unripe bananas may result in less flavor.
- Overmixing the batter can make the cake dense.
- Not cooling the cake completely before frosting can cause the frosting to melt.
- Using cold ingredients can affect the texture of the cake.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately can lead to inconsistencies.
Helpful Tips
- For extra flavor, add chopped walnuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
- Let the cream cheese and butter come to room temperature for easier mixing.
- Use a toothpick to check for doneness; it should come out clean.
- Decorate with banana slices for a beautiful presentation.
FAQs
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
How can I make the frosting less sweet?
To reduce sweetness, you can use less powdered sugar or add a pinch of salt to balance the flavors.
Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain excess moisture before mashing them for the batter.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
Greasing the pan thoroughly and using parchment paper can help prevent sticking.
Can I add other flavors to the cake?
Yes, spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of the banana cake.
Conclusion
This banana cake with cream cheese frosting is a delightful treat that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the creamy tang of frosting. Perfect for any occasion, it’s sure to be a hit among family and friends. Enjoy every slice of this moist and flavorful cake!
Banana Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 ripe bananas mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter softened
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan.
- Cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated.
- Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with sour cream.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, smoothing the top.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by beating together the cream cheese, butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla until smooth.