The Best Banana Cake

This banana cake is a delightful dessert that’s moist, full of flavor, and topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re celebrating a special event or simply treating yourself to something sweet. The combination of ripe bananas and rich frosting makes each bite irresistible!

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

3 large eggs

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 1/2 cups mashed ripe bananas (about 4 bananas)

1/2 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup sour cream

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 oz cream cheese, softened

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened

4 cups powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Pinch of salt

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

Directions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set this aside.

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

In a separate bowl, combine the mashed bananas, buttermilk, and sour cream.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the banana mixture. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans and smooth the tops.

Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.

For the frosting, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy.

Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, and continue beating until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.

Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt.

Once the cakes have cooled completely, spread a layer of frosting on top of one cake. Place the second cake on top and frost the entire cake.

Optionally, decorate with additional banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 servings.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

Chocolate Chip Banana Cake: Add 1 cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter before baking for a chocolatey twist.

Nutty Banana Cake: Mix in some chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added crunch and flavor.

Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with a flaxseed egg substitute and use vegan butter and cream cheese for the frosting.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: I recommend storing any leftover banana cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake for up to a week.

Reheating: If you’d like to enjoy the cake warm, simply heat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

FAQs

How ripe should the bananas be for this cake?

For the best results, I use bananas that are overripe—when they have plenty of brown spots. These bananas are extra sweet and will create a moister cake.

Can I freeze this cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake! Once the cake has cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving.

Can I make the frosting ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cream cheese frosting ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before using.

Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?

Yes, if you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can use regular milk. To replicate buttermilk, simply add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1/2 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe.

Can I make this cake without cinnamon?

If you’re not a fan of cinnamon, feel free to omit it. The banana flavor will still shine through, and you’ll have a simple, classic banana cake.

Conclusion

This banana cake is a true treat for anyone who loves a moist, flavorful dessert. The combination of ripe bananas and creamy frosting creates a cake that’s hard to resist. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just as a sweet indulgence, this recipe is sure to impress!

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