Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix the Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, beat together the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until well combined. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using).
- Mix the Batter: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined—do not overmix, or the cake may become dense.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
- Pour into Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden, and the edges slightly pulled away from the pan.
- Cool: Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
Step 3: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat the Cream Cheese and Butter: In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Add Powdered Sugar and Vanilla: Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing until smooth. Add the vanilla extract and mix until well incorporated. If the frosting is too thick, add a little milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, until it reaches a spreadable consistency.
Step 4: Frost the Cake
- Spread Frosting: Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cake with a spatula.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for extra crunch, or add banana slices for garnish.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread Cake
- Use Ripe Bananas: Riper bananas yield sweeter and more flavorful results.
- Buttermilk for Moisture: If you don’t have buttermilk, make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Chill the Frosting: For easy spreading, let the frosting chill for 10 minutes before applying it to the cake.
Serving and Storing
Serving Suggestions: Serve at room temperature for optimal flavor. Pair it with coffee or tea for a delicious treat!
Storing: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For the best texture, bring it to room temperature before serving.
Final Thoughts
This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is the ultimate banana dessert, perfect for any occasion. With its fluffy texture, rich cream cheese topping, and hint of banana flavor, it’s a treat you’ll find yourself making again and again. Enjoy this satisfying and delightful dessert!