Name: Moist Banana Cake with Creamy Frosting You’ll Crave
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 120 min
Ingredients: 4 bananas very ripe mashed bananas; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 2 cups all-purpose flour (gluten-free flour can be substituted); 1 teaspoon baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or almond extract); 0.5 cup buttermilk (or milk mixed with vinegar); 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened); 8 ounces cream cheese (softened); 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups icing sugar

As the aroma of warm banana cake wafts through the kitchen, I can’t help but smile—there’s something magical about baking with ripe bananas. This Moist and Delicious Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting has become my go-to recipe, and I know it will be yours too! It’s incredibly easy to whip up and is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy morning treat or a sweet addition for gatherings. The combination of moist cake and creamy frosting creates a delightful experience that celebrates the natural sweetness of bananas. Plus, it’s vegetarian-friendly, making it accessible to anyone craving a comforting dessert. Are you ready to discover your new favorite recipe? Let’s get baking!

Why is this banana cake so irresistible?

Moisture: This cake is renowned for its unbelievably moist texture, thanks to the ripe bananas that infuse each bite with natural sweetness.
Easy to Make: Don’t worry if you’re a beginner; this recipe ensures success with simple, straightforward steps.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat or a dessert—this banana cake fits any occasion perfectly!
Rich Cream Cheese Frosting: The tanginess of the cream cheese frosting perfectly complements the sweet cake, creating a flavor explosion! You could also try adding some chocolate chips for a decadent twist like in my Oreo Cheesecake Cookie or a slice with a hot cup of coffee for an afternoon pick-me-up.
Crowd-Pleaser: Its delicious, homey flavor makes it a hit at gatherings, ensuring there won’t be any leftovers!
Vegetarian-Friendly: With no complicated ingredients, this cake is a great choice for everyone to enjoy!

Banana Cake Ingredients

• Discover what makes this banana cake special!

For the Cake

Mashed Bananas – Use very ripe bananas for the best moisture and natural sweetness.
Lemon Juice – This enhances banana flavor and prevents browning during preparation.
Flour – All-purpose flour is perfect here; gluten-free flour can be substituted if needed.
Baking Soda – Ensures your cake rises beautifully, keeping it light and fluffy.
Salt – A pinch balances the sweetness, enhancing all the flavors in your banana cake.
Butter – Unsalted butter adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s softened first.
Sugar – Granulated sugar sweetens the cake and creates a lovely texture.
Eggs – Large eggs provide both structure and moisture to keep the cake tender.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the flavor; consider using almond extract for a unique twist.
Buttermilk – Contributes to a tender crumb; if unavailable, mix milk with vinegar for a quick substitute.

For the Cream Cheese Frosting

Butter – Use softened unsalted butter for a rich, creamy consistency.
Cream Cheese – Make sure it’s softened to mix easily into a luscious frosting.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile of the frosting wonderfully.
Icing Sugar – Sweetens and smoothens the frosting for that perfect finish.

With these carefully chosen ingredients, your banana cake will not only be easy to make but also undeniably delicious! Enjoy baking your banana cake—it’s a true favorite that will leave everyone craving more!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Banana Cake

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 275°F (135°C). While it warms up, generously grease a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with butter to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your banana cake bakes evenly and comes out easily once it’s done!

Step 2: Mix Bananas and Lemon Juice
In a small bowl, mash about 3 to 4 very ripe bananas until smooth. Stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice to enhance the banana flavor and prevent browning. Set this banana mixture aside, as it will infuse your cake with moisture and natural sweetness.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt until thoroughly combined. This step is essential, as it ensures the even distribution of the leavening agent and seasoning throughout the batter, contributing to the perfect rise and flavor of your banana cake.

Step 4: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a mixer, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This process introduces air into the batter, giving your banana cake that desirable light and airy texture.

Step 5: Add Eggs and Vanilla
One at a time, beat in 2 large eggs into the creamed mixture, ensuring each egg is fully combined before adding the next. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, which adds a lovely depth of flavor to your banana cake. The batter should now be smooth and cohesive.

Step 6: Mix in Dry Ingredients and Buttermilk
Gradually incorporate your flour mixture into the batter, alternating with ½ cup of buttermilk. Begin with the flour mixture and mix until just combined—this prevents overmixing, which could make the cake dense. Once incorporated, fold in the mashed banana mixture gently.

Step 7: Pour and Bake
Carefully pour the batter into your prepared baking pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the oven and let it bake for approximately 60 minutes. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean—this step is crucial for ensuring perfect doneness without drying it out.

Step 8: Cool in the Freezer
Once baked, remove the banana cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. For maximum moisture retention, transfer it to the freezer for 45 minutes. This special step keeps your cake moist and fluffy, making it even more delightful.

Step 9: Prepare the Frosting
While the cake cools, make the cream cheese frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 8 ounces of softened cream cheese until smooth, approximately 3-4 minutes. Then, add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract followed by 2 cups of icing sugar, mixing until the frosting is creamy and well blended.

Step 10: Frost and Decorate
Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. For added texture and flavor, consider topping it with chopped walnuts or creative decorations like heart shapes. This finishing touch not only enhances the appearance but also elevates the deliciousness of your banana cake!

What to Serve with Moist Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Indulging in a slice of this delightful banana cake opens the door to a world of flavors, inviting you to pair it with equally delicious accompaniments.

Fresh Berries: The tartness of blueberries or raspberries adds a refreshing contrast to the sweet, creamy cake. A sprinkle of powdered sugar over berries elevates the presentation beautifully.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy and cool, a scoop of vanilla ice cream is a luscious addition that balances the moistness of the banana cake. You can also drizzle some chocolate syrup for a decadent twist!
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream creates a perfect complement to the rich cream cheese frosting. It enhances the cake’s overall creaminess with a fluffy cloud of texture.
Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee pairs wonderfully with this moist banana cake. The bitterness of the coffee beautifully offsets the cake’s sweetness, making it a perfect afternoon treat.
Coconut Milk Smoothie: Blend banana, coconut milk, and a hint of vanilla for a tropical smoothie that echoes the flavors in the cake. It’s refreshing and aligns perfectly with the dessert’s comfort.
Pecan Praline: The crunchy, nutty flavor of pecan praline awakens the taste buds, adding a delightful texture contrast. It makes a lovely topping as well!
Chocolate Ganache: For chocolate lovers, a drizzle of warm chocolate ganache enhances the cake with indulgent richness. It’s an instant crowd-pleaser that can turn this cake into a chocolatey delight.
Lemon Sorbet: The zesty and refreshing bite of lemon sorbet cleanses the palate while complementing the cake’s sweetness. It’s a bright, light, and enjoyable option to serve alongside.
Caramel Sauce: A warm drizzle of caramel sauce adds extra sweetness and a decadent touch that pairs beautifully with the moist texture of the banana cake.
Hot Tea: Whether herbal or traditional flavors, a nice cup of hot tea makes for a comforting drink that pairs effortlessly with that sweet banana goodness.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your banana cake ahead of time is a great way to simplify your baking on busy days! You can make the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to cover it tightly to prevent any moisture loss. If you prefer, you can also bake the cake a few days in advance; simply let it cool completely, wrap it in plastic wrap, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, frost it with the cream cheese frosting, which can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Just allow it to soften at room temperature before spreading for that luxurious finish!

Expert Tips for Banana Cake

Use Ripe Bananas: Make sure your bananas are very ripe, as they provide the most moisture and sweetness that the banana cake deserves.
Don’t Over-Mix: Gently fold the ingredients together to avoid over-mixing, which can lead to a dense cake. You want a light and fluffy texture!
Check Doneness Early: Since ovens can vary in temperature, start checking your banana cake around the 50-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Keep It Cool: After baking, place your cake in the freezer as suggested to lock in moisture. This improves the final texture, making your banana cake irresistibly moist.
Customize Your Frosting: Feel free to add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of rum extract to the frosting for a unique twist on the classic cream cheese flavor!

Banana Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative with this banana cake recipe—your kitchen adventure awaits!

Applesauce Twist: Substitute half of the mashed bananas with unsweetened applesauce for a subtle, fruity flavor that adds extra moisture.
Chocolate Delight: Fold in a cup of chocolate chips or chunks into the batter for a rich, decadent twist that will delight chocolate lovers. Imagine each bite bursting with gooey goodness!
Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a satisfying crunch and a hint of nutty flavor.
Spiced Up: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to add a warm, spicy flavor that complements the sweetness of your bananas.
Coconut Cream: Swap in coconut cream for the buttermilk for a tropical vibe! This substitution not only adds fantastic flavor but also contributes to a lush texture.
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing taste.
Fruity Fusion: Mix in a ½ cup of diced strawberries or blueberries for bursts of fruity freshness throughout the cake—perfect for a summer gathering!
Add Some Heat: For a fun twist, try adding a pinch of cayenne or chili powder to the frosting for a surprising kick that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the cake.

With these variations, your banana cake will always feel fresh and inviting! You might also love pairing it with a slice of my Fried Strawberry Cheesecake for an indulgent treat or enjoy it alongside a cozy cup of coffee for a perfect afternoon pick-me-up.

How to Store and Freeze Banana Cake

Room Temperature: The banana cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered with a cake dome or wrapped in plastic wrap to keep it fresh.

Fridge: For extended freshness, store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. This also helps maintain the moist texture of your banana cake.

Freezer: If you want to keep your banana cake longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.

Reheating: To enjoy your banana cake after freezing, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through, preserving its moistness.

Moist Banana Cake Recipe FAQs

What kind of bananas should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture in your banana cake, you should use very ripe bananas. Look for bananas with a high number of brown spots or even those that are almost black. Ripe bananas are mega sweet and perfect for baking!

How do I store leftover banana cake?
Very simple! Store any leftover banana cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want it to last longer, move it to the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for about one week. Just be sure it’s covered properly to keep it moist!

Can I freeze banana cake? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your banana cake! To do this, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. This double wrapping helps prevent freezer burn and keeps it fresh. You can freeze it for up to 3 months! When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds.

What should I do if my banana cake turns out dense?
If your banana cake ends up being dense, it’s often due to over-mixing the batter. Be gentle when combining your ingredients after the flour is added. Mix just until you see no more dry flour; it’s okay if the batter has some lumps. Also, make sure your baking soda is fresh, as old leavening agents won’t provide the lift needed for a fluffy cake.

Is this banana cake suitable for those with allergies?
This banana cake is vegetarian-friendly but does contain common allergens like eggs and dairy. If you’re making it for someone with food allergies, you can substitute the eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce (1/4 cup per egg). For dairy-free options, use non-dairy butter and almond milk mixed with vinegar instead of buttermilk. Always check with guests to accommodate their dietary needs!

How long does the cream cheese frosting last in the fridge?
You can store leftover cream cheese frosting in an airtight container in the fridge for up to one week. If you’re using it later, just give it a good stir before spreading it on your banana cake to restore its creamy texture. Store any frosted cake in the fridge to keep it delicious and fresh!