Name: Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 1.5 cups very ripe bananas (mashed (about 4 large bananas)); 3 cups cake flour; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1.5 teaspoons baking soda; 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1 teaspoon salt; 2 sticks butter (at room temperature); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup light brown sugar (packed); 4 large eggs (at room temperature); 0.75 cups full-fat sour cream; 0.75 cups whole milk; 8 ounces full-fat cream cheese (very soft); 4 ounces unsalted butter (very soft); 1 cup creamy peanut butter; 1 tablespoon honey; 0.5 teaspoon flaky sea salt; 4 cups confectioners' sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream

If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly balances sweetness and nostalgia, look no further than this delightful Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting. This cake is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that will transport you to your childhood memories of banana bread, only with a luxurious twist. The moist, fluffy banana cake pairs beautifully with a rich, creamy peanut butter frosting, creating an unbeatable combination that will have your family and friends coming back for seconds (or thirds!).

Reasons to Love Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting

There are countless reasons to adore this Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting. Here are just a few:

Incredible Flavor: The natural sweetness of very ripe bananas shines through in every bite, while the peanut butter frosting adds a rich, nutty flavor that complements the cake perfectly.
Moist and Fluffy: This cake is incredibly moist, thanks to the combination of bananas and sour cream, ensuring that every slice is tender and light.
Simple Ingredients: Using basic pantry staples, this recipe is easy to throw together, making it perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned pros.
Versatile: Whether it’s a birthday party, a cozy family gathering, or just a weekday treat, this cake fits any occasion.
Impressive Presentation: The rich frosting and optional garnishes make this cake a showstopper that will impress your guests.

Shopping List

Before you start baking, gather the following ingredients:

1 1/2 cups very ripe bananas, mashed (about 4 large bananas)
3 cups cake flour (see post for homemade alternative)
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 1/2 teaspoons baking soda
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon salt
2 sticks butter, at room temperature
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup light brown sugar, packed
4 large eggs, at room temperature
3/4 cup full-fat sour cream
3/4 cup whole milk
8 ounces full-fat cream cheese, very soft
4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter, very soft
1 cup creamy peanut butter
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon flaky sea salt
4 cups confectioners’ sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream

Prep & Cook Tools

Make sure you have the following tools before you begin:

Mixing Bowls: For mixing your cake batter and frosting.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking.
Electric Mixer: A stand or hand mixer will make it easier to cream the butter and sugars.
Rubber Spatula: For folding in ingredients and scraping down the sides of bowls.
Cake Pans: Two 9-inch round pans are ideal for this recipe.
Cooling Rack: To cool the cakes completely before frosting them.

Mastering Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting: How-To

Follow these simple steps to create your Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting:

Step 1: Prepare Your Cake Pans

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. Alternatively, you can line the bottoms with parchment paper for easier removal.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Set aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugars

In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 4-5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Bananas

Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, mix in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until fully combined.

Step 5: Incorporate Sour Cream and Milk

Mix in the sour cream and whole milk, blending until smooth.

Step 6: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay.

Step 7: Bake the Cakes

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a cooling rack.

Step 8: Prepare the Peanut Butter Frosting

In a mixing bowl, beat together the softened cream cheese and unsalted butter until creamy. Add the creamy peanut butter, honey, and flaky sea salt, mixing until well combined. Gradually add the confectioners’ sugar, followed by the heavy cream, until the frosting is smooth and spreadable.

Step 9: Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cool, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of peanut butter frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and use the remaining frosting to cover the top and sides of the cake.

Step 10: Decorate (Optional)

For an extra touch, you can garnish the cake with banana slices, chopped peanuts, or a drizzle of honey.

Seasonal Serving Ideas

Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is versatile enough for various occasions. Consider these serving ideas:

Birthday Parties: A perfect cake for celebrating milestones with a delightful twist.
Picnics: Slice it into squares for easy transport and enjoyment outdoors.
Potlucks: Impress fellow guests with this crowd-pleaser that is sure to disappear quickly.
Afternoon Tea: Serve slices alongside your favorite tea for a cozy afternoon treat.

Common Errors (and Fixes)

Even the best bakers can make mistakes. Here are some common errors and how to fix them:

Dense Cake: If your cake turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. Mix just until combined.
Frosting Too Runny: If your peanut butter frosting is too runny, add more confectioners’ sugar until it reaches the desired consistency.
Uneven Baking: Make sure your oven is properly calibrated, and rotate the cakes halfway through baking for even cooking.
Sticking Cake: Ensure your pans are well-greased and floured, or use parchment paper to prevent sticking.

How to Store & Reheat

To keep your Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting fresh, consider the following storage tips:

Room Temperature: Store the cake covered at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, keep it in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: You can freeze individual slices or the whole cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy a slice warm, microwave it for 10-15 seconds. For a freshly frosted cake, allow it to come to room temperature before serving.

Reader Questions

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of cake flour?

Yes, you can use whole wheat flour, but the texture may be denser. For a lighter cake, consider a mix of whole wheat and all-purpose flour.

Can I substitute the peanut butter?

If you have a nut allergy, you can use sun butter or another nut-free spread as a substitute for the peanut butter.

How do I know when the cake is done baking?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cakes in advance and store them in the fridge or freeze them until you’re ready to frost and serve.

See You at the Table

This Banana Cake with Peanut Butter Frosting is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings joy, comfort, and a hint of nostalgia to your table. With its moist texture and creamy frosting, it’s bound to become a favorite in your home. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a cake that’s as delicious as it is memorable. Happy baking!