Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting takes the classic banana bread to the next level with a light, fluffy cake texture and a decadent, tangy frosting. This dessert is perfect for anyone who loves banana bread but craves something a little sweeter and more indulgent. The cream cheese frosting adds richness that perfectly complements the moist, flavorful banana bread base.

Ingredients

For the cake:
2 ripe bananas
1/2 cup butter
1 cup sugar
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)

For the cream cheese frosting:
8 oz cream cheese
1/4 cup butter
2 cups powdered sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
2. In a mixing bowl, mash the ripe bananas and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and vanilla extract, mixing well.
4. Stir in the mashed bananas into the butter-sugar mixture.
5. In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture and stir until just combined.
6. Fold in the chopped walnuts, if desired.
7. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. While the cake is baking, prepare the cream cheese frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, continuing to beat until creamy and fluffy.
9. Once the cake has cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting on top and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 60-70 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

1. Chocolate Chip Banana Bread Cake: Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweeter twist.
2. Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon to the dry ingredients and swirl a cinnamon-sugar mixture into the batter before baking.
3. Nut-Free: Omit the walnuts for a nut-free version, or replace them with seeds, like sunflower or pumpkin seeds.
4. Maple Cream Cheese Frosting: Add 2 tablespoons of maple syrup to the frosting for a maple-flavored variation.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover banana bread cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: If desired, reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds before serving. You can also enjoy it chilled or at room temperature.

10 FAQs

1. Can I make this without walnuts?
   Yes, the walnuts are optional. You can omit them or substitute with other add-ins like chocolate chips or dried fruit.
2. Can I freeze banana bread cake?
   Yes, you can freeze the banana bread cake before frosting. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use ripe frozen bananas?
   Yes, you can use frozen bananas. Just make sure to thaw and drain any excess liquid before mashing them.
4. Can I use a different type of flour?
   Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour blends, but the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
5. Can I make the cream cheese frosting ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the frosting in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just bring it to room temperature before spreading on the cake.
6. How can I make the banana bread cake fluffier?
   Make sure not to overmix the batter when adding the dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture.
7. Can I use oil instead of butter?
   Yes, you can substitute the butter with vegetable oil or melted coconut oil for a slightly different flavor and texture.
8. How do I know when the cake is done?
   The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, with no wet batter attached.
9. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
   Yes, brown sugar can be used for a more caramel-like flavor. It may also make the cake a bit more moist.
10. How do I store the frosting if I have leftovers?
    Store any leftover frosting in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Re-whip it before using again.

Conclusion

Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that takes the classic banana bread and elevates it with a rich and creamy frosting. The combination of sweet, moist banana bread and tangy cream cheese frosting is irresistible. Whether you’re serving it at a gathering or enjoying it as a treat at home, this banana bread cake will surely become a new favorite.

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