This moist banana cake is perfectly sweet, tender, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting — a classic treat that never fails!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Incredibly soft and moist banana cake

• Rich, tangy cream cheese frosting

• Great for birthdays, brunches, or potlucks

• Easy to make with basic ingredients

• Tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients

For the Banana Cake:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed

• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 2 large eggs

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• 1 tsp baking soda

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ cup buttermilk

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened

• 2 cups powdered sugar

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

Prep Time: 20 min
Cook Time: 60 min
Total Time: 1 hr 20 min
Servings: 8
Calories: ~420 per serving

Directions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs, Bananas, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time. Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas until well combined.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.

Step 5: Combine with Buttermilk

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Mix just until combined — don’t overmix.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top and bake for 50–60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool Completely

Let the cake cool fully in the pan before frosting.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and fluffy. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla and continue beating until creamy.

Step 9: Frost and Serve

Spread the frosting over the cooled cake. Slice and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

• Use overripe bananas for maximum flavor and moisture.

• Add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.

• Swap buttermilk with plain yogurt or sour cream in a pinch.

• Bake in a square pan or double the recipe for a layer cake.

• Frost with chocolate ganache for a decadent twist.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this banana cake in advance?
Yes! It stays moist for days and actually tastes better after resting overnight.

How should I store leftovers?
Store covered in the fridge for up to 4 days. Let slices come to room temp before serving for best texture.

Can I freeze this cake?
You can freeze the unfrosted cake for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, then frost before serving.

Can I make cupcakes from this recipe?
Absolutely! Bake in a muffin tin for 18–22 minutes and check with a toothpick.

Final Thoughts

This banana cake is everything you love in a comforting dessert: tender, sweet, and topped with luscious cream cheese frosting. Whether for a celebration or casual weekend bake, this recipe is bound to become a favorite!