Ingredients
For the Banana Bread Cake:
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2 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup granulated sugar
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1/2 cup brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 3 bananas)
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1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
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1/2 cup milk
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Optional: 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
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Optional: 1/2 cup mini chocolate chips
For the Cream Cheese Frosting:
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8 oz cream cheese, softened
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1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
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2 1/2 cups powdered sugar
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Instructions
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
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Overripe bananas with brown spots offer the richest flavor and moistest texture.
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Do not overmix once the dry and wet ingredients meet—overworking the batter creates a dense cake.
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Cooling completely before frosting ensures the frosting doesn’t melt.
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If using cream cheese from a tub, ensure it is full-fat for best consistency