The Banana Cake Recipe Readers Have Loved for Over a Decade

Name: The Banana Cake Recipe Readers Have Loved for Over a Decade
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons milk

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This moist and delightful banana cake is a family favorite that has stood the test of time. Featuring ripe bananas and a touch of vanilla, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and flavor that's simply irresistible. Topped with a creamy frosting, this cake is perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to casual gatherings. Bake up a slice of nostalgia and make memories with each delicious bite.

Created by

Harper Collins

Last updated on 2025-12-02T14:54:23.894Z

This banana cake recipe has delighted families for over a decade. Its simple ingredients come together to create a moist, flavorful cake that transports you back to happy memories.

The Perfect Occasion for Banana Cake

Banana cake is one of those timeless desserts that fits seamlessly into a variety of occasions. Whether it’s a birthday party, family reunion, or just a quiet afternoon treat, this cake brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Its light, moist texture combined with the sweetness of ripe bananas makes it universally loved by both kids and adults alike.

If you have a get-together on the horizon, consider this delightful cake as your show-stopping dessert. Not only does it taste sensational, but it also looks beautiful when frosted. With its creamy frosting and inviting color, it promises to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

Tips for Choosing Ripe Bananas

The key to achieving the best flavor in your banana cake lies in selecting the right bananas. Look for bananas that are fully ripe, with a bright yellow peel and plenty of brown spots. These indications show that the bananas are sweet and soft, perfect for mashing. Avoid overly green or too brown bananas, as they may alter the flavor and texture of your cake.

If you don’t have ripe bananas on hand, you can easily speed up the ripening process. Place your bananas in a paper bag at room temperature, or for an even quicker method, bake them in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 15-20 minutes until they soft and brown. This little trick ensures you have the perfect ingredient ready for your baking adventure.

Storing and Serving Suggestions

Once your banana cake is baked and frosted, you’ll want to know how to store it properly. Keep any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you need to store it for longer, refrigerate it, where it can last for about a week. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.

When it comes to serving, you can elevate your banana cake experience by adding fresh fruit as a garnish. Slices of banana, strawberries, or even a sprinkle of nuts can enhance the visual appeal and add a refreshing touch. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat that everyone will love.

Ingredients

For the Cake

3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 tablespoons milk

Make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

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

Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar. Add the mashed bananas, eggs, and vanilla, and mix until well combined.

Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Make the Frosting

While the cake cools, prepare the frosting by beating together the softened butter, powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth.

Frost and Serve

Once the cake has cooled, spread the frosting on top and serve.

Enjoy your delicious banana cake!

Frequently Asked Questions

One common question about banana cake is whether you can freeze it. Absolutely! Banana cake freezes well. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. For the best quality, consume frozen cake within three months. Thaw it at room temperature before serving for tastiness that’s just as good as fresh-baked.

Another frequent inquiry is about variations. You can easily customize your banana cake by adding nuts, chocolate chips, or spices like cinnamon. Each addition gives a unique twist to the flavor profile, allowing you to experiment and find your favorite version of this beloved dessert.

Pairing Suggestions

Pairing beverages with your banana cake can enhance the overall experience. A steaming cup of coffee or a refreshing glass of milk complements this dessert wonderfully. Both drinks balance the sweetness of the cake while offering a delightful contrast of flavors.

For a special celebration, consider serving your banana cake alongside a dessert wine. Sweet wines, such as Moscato or Late Harvest Riesling, can bring out the richness of the bananas and frosting, creating a perfect pairing that elevates your dessert table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen bananas?

Yes, just thaw and mash them before adding to the mixture.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.