2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1/2 cup milk
Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Optional: 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
Ezoic
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Pan & Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. A metal pan works best for an even rise and golden edges.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This step evenly distributes the leavening agents and ensures the cake rises properly.
Step 3: Cream Butter & Sugars
In a large bowl, beat softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Proper creaming gives your cake structure and helps create a softer crumb.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla & Bananas
Mix in the eggs one at a time. Add vanilla extract, then fold in the mashed bananas. The mixture will appear slightly lumpy due to banana pieces—this is perfect for flavor and moisture.
Step 5: Add Sour Cream & Milk
Mix in sour cream (or Greek yogurt) to add richness, moisture, and a slight tang. Slowly add the milk and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.
Step 6: Combine Wet & Dry Ingredients
Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and gently fold until everything is incorporated. For add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips, fold them in at this stage.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter into your prepared baking pan and spread evenly. Bake for 28–38 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool completely before frosting.
Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting
Beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar gradually along with vanilla and a pinch of salt. Whip until creamy and spreadable.
Step 9: Frost the Banana Bread Cake
Once the cake is fully cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting generously over the top. For an extra decorative touch, use the back of a spoon to create swoops or keep it smooth for a classic finish.
Notes
Overripe bananas with brown spots offer the richest flavor and moistest texture.
Do not overmix once the dry and wet ingredients meet—overworking the batter creates a dense cake.
Cooling completely before frosting ensures the frosting doesn’t melt.
If using cream cheese from a tub, ensure it is full-fat for best consistency
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