Banana Bread Cake Recipe

Introduction

Soft, moist, and full of banana flavor, this Banana Bread Cake combines the heartiness of banana bread with the lightness of a cake. Perfect as a snack, dessert, or even breakfast, this treat is easy to make and a great way to use overripe bananas. Pair it with your favorite frosting or enjoy it plain for a simple yet delightful indulgence.

Ingredients (Quantities)

For the Cake:

Bananas: 3 large, overripe
All-purpose flour: 1 3/4 cups
Baking powder: 1 teaspoon
Baking soda: 1 teaspoon
Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon (optional)
Butter: 1/2 cup (1 stick), softened
Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup
Brown sugar: 1/4 cup, packed
Eggs: 2 large
Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
Milk: 1/4 cup (whole milk or buttermilk)

Optional Frosting:

Cream cheese frosting: 1 cup, store-bought or homemade
Powdered sugar: For dusting if serving plain

Optional Ingredients

Walnuts or pecans: 1/2 cup, chopped, for added crunch
Chocolate chips: 1/2 cup, for a sweet twist
Nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon, for added warmth
Shredded coconut: 1/4 cup, for a tropical touch

Instructions

Preheat and prepare the pan:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper.
Mash the bananas:
- In a medium bowl, mash the bananas until smooth. Set aside.
Mix the dry ingredients:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Cream the butter and sugars:
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add wet ingredients:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
Combine the batter:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
Bake:
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Frost or serve:
- If using cream cheese frosting, spread it evenly over the cooled cake. Alternatively, dust the cake with powdered sugar for a simple finish.

Tips for Success

Use overripe bananas with brown spots for the sweetest and most flavorful results.
Avoid overmixing the batter to keep the cake soft and tender.
Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent melting.
For a loaf-like texture, bake in a loaf pan and extend the baking time by 10–15 minutes.

Recommendations

Serve with a cup of coffee or tea for a cozy treat.
Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for dessert.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.