Banana Cake Recipe

This 2-Layer Banana Cake is moist, tender, and packed with real banana flavor. Paired with a luscious cream cheese frosting, it’s the perfect dessert for any banana lover, whether for a special occasion or a simple indulgence.

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Yield: Serves 10–12

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Ingredients

For the Cake:

• 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, for a hint of spice)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 3 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
• 1/2 cup buttermilk, at room temperature
• 1/4 cup sour cream

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 12 oz cream cheese, softened to room temperature
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
• 4 1/2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (optional, to adjust consistency)

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Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.

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Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, oil, and sugar together with a hand or stand mixer on medium speed until light and fluffy (about 3 minutes).
3. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Mix in the mashed bananas until fully combined.
5. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with the buttermilk and sour cream, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until combined—do not overmix.

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Step 3: Bake the Cake

1. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops with a spatula.
2. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.

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Step 4: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

1. In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together on medium speed until smooth and creamy (about 2–3 minutes).
2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, beating well after each addition.
3. Mix in the vanilla extract until the frosting is smooth and fluffy.
4. If needed, add heavy cream or milk, 1 tablespoon at a time, to adjust the frosting to a spreadable consistency.

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Step 5: Assemble the Cake

1. Place one cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese frosting over the top.
2. Place the second cake layer on top and gently press down.
3. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting, smoothing it out with a spatula.

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Step 6: Decorate

1. Garnish the cake with banana slices, chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts), or a light dusting of cinnamon.
2. Chill the cake for 20–30 minutes to set the frosting before slicing and serving.

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How It Looks and Tastes The cake is moist and fluffy, with a natural banana sweetness complemented by the tangy, creamy frosting. Each bite is rich yet balanced, making it an irresistible dessert.

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Nutritional Information (Per Slice, Based on 12 Slices): Calories: 430 | Fat: 20g | Saturated Fat: 10g | Carbohydrates: 58g | Fiber: 1g | Sugars: 42g | Protein: 4g

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Kitchen Tips

1. Use Ripe Bananas: Overripe bananas with brown spots are best for the sweetest, most flavorful cake.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for smooth mixing.
3. Frosting Tip: Chill the frosting for 10 minutes before spreading for easier application.
4. Add Nuts: Mix 1/2 cup chopped nuts (like walnuts) into the batter for added texture.
5. Storage: Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature before serving.

Enjoy this delicious Banana Cake as a nostalgic treat or for your next celebration!