Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Banana bread is a classic favorite, but have you ever tried it in cake form? This Banana Bread Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting takes everything you love about banana bread and elevates it to a soft, fluffy cake topped with a rich, tangy frosting.

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this cake is easy to make and a great way to use up overripe bananas.

The balance of warm spices, natural sweetness, and smooth frosting makes this an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread Cake

• A perfect blend of banana bread and cake moist, soft, and fluffy
• The cream cheese frosting adds a rich and tangy contrast
• Easy to make with simple pantry ingredients
• Great for using up overripe bananas
• Perfect for special occasions or casual snacking

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Cake:

• 3 overripe bananas, mashed
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 cups powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• A pinch of salt

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Make the Banana Bread Cake Batter

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
• In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
• In a separate large bowl, beat butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until creamy.
• Add eggs and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
• Stir in the mashed bananas and sour cream.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.

2. Bake the Cake

• Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
• Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.

3. Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

• In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and fluffy.
• Gradually add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.
• Beat until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

4. Frost and Serve

• Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake.
• Optional: Top with chopped walnuts, banana slices, or a drizzle of caramel for extra flavor.
• Slice and serve.

Tips for the Best Banana Bread Cake

• Use extra ripe bananas The more brown spots, the better.
• Don’t overmix the batter This keeps the cake fluffy.
• Let the cake cool before frosting Otherwise, the frosting will melt.
• For extra flavor, add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter.
• Store leftovers in the fridge The frosting stays fresh and delicious for days.

Variations & Substitutions

• Make it gluten-free Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-free option Swap out butter and cream cheese for plant-based alternatives.
• Add-ins Mix in chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or chopped pecans for texture.
• Turn it into cupcakes Pour the batter into muffin tins and adjust the baking time.

Recipe FAQ’s

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes. Bake the cake a day in advance and frost it before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Can I freeze it?

Yes. Freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 3 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

What if I don’t have sour cream?

Use Greek yogurt or buttermilk as a substitute.