How to Make Banana Cake from Scratch
1. Prep & Preheat
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch pan or two 8-inch round cake pans.
2. Mix the Dry Ingredients
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
3. Cream Butter & Sugar
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In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each. Mix in vanilla and mashed bananas.
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4. Combine Wet & Dry
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Alternate adding the dry mixture and buttermilk to the banana mixture, mixing just until combined.
5. Bake
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Pour the batter into prepared pan(s) and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.
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Let the cake cool completely before frosting.
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
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Beat cream cheese and butter together until smooth.
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Add powdered sugar, vanilla, and salt. Beat until light and creamy.
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Spread over the cooled cake with a spatula or knife.
Tips & Variations
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No buttermilk? Make your own by mixing 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice with 1 cup milk.
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Want a layered cake? Double the frosting and use two round pans.
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Add-ins: Try mixing in chopped walnuts or mini chocolate chips for texture.
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Serving Suggestions
Serve your banana cake chilled or at room temperature, with:
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A drizzle of caramel or chocolate
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Fresh banana slices
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Toasted coconut or chopped pecans on top
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Storage
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Fridge: Store frosted cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
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Freezer: Freeze unfrosted cake layers up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.
FAQs About Banana Cake
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Thaw and drain off excess liquid before mashing.
Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes — use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour blend.
Why is my cake dense?
Avoid overmixing the batter once flour is added — this keeps it light and fluffy.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Bake the cake a day in advance and frost just before serving.
Final Thoughts
This banana cake with cream cheese frosting is the perfect way to turn simple ingredients into a show-stopping dessert. Whether you’re baking for a celebration or just because, this recipe delivers every time — moist, flavorful, and impossible to resist.
