Description
Introduction
If you’re looking for a soft, moist, and flavorful cake that everyone will love, this homemade banana cake recipe is just what you need! Made with ripe bananas, simple pantry staples, and baked to golden perfection, this cake is perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, birthdays, or even just a cozy afternoon treat.
Banana cake is one of those timeless desserts that brings comfort and nostalgia. Whether topped with cream cheese frosting, dusted with powdered sugar, or enjoyed plain, it’s always a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter.
History / Background
Banana cake became popular in the United States during the 1930s, when home bakers looked for creative ways to use ripe bananas instead of letting them go to waste. Over time, it evolved into a staple recipe in American kitchens, often passed down from generation to generation. Today, it’s loved worldwide for its moist texture, natural sweetness, and endless variations.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- ✅ Super moist and fluffy texture
- ✅ Great way to use overripe bananas
- ✅ Simple pantry ingredients (budget-friendly!)
- ✅ Perfect for birthdays, snacks, or even breakfast
- ✅ Can be frosted, glazed, or enjoyed plain
- ✅ Family-friendly and freezer-friendly
Ingredient Notes
- Bananas – Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for the best sweetness and flavor.
- Flour – All-purpose flour works best, but you can substitute with whole wheat flour for a healthier twist.
- Sugar – White sugar adds sweetness; brown sugar can be used for extra moisture and a slight caramel flavor.
- Eggs – Help with structure and fluffiness. Use flax eggs if making vegan.
- Butter – Adds richness and flavor. You can substitute with coconut oil or margarine.
- Milk – Keeps the cake moist. Any dairy or non-dairy milk works.
- Baking Soda + Baking Powder – Ensure a light, fluffy rise.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 large ripe bananas (mashed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 1 cup sugar (white or brown)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or two 9-inch round pans.
- In a bowl, mash bananas until smooth.
- In a medium bowl, whisk flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in eggs, mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Slowly add dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).
- Pour batter into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Let cool completely before slicing. Optional: frost with cream cheese icing or dust with powdered sugar.
Notes
Tips & Variations
- Add chocolate chips or walnuts for extra flavor.
- Make it healthier by swapping white flour with half whole wheat flour.
- Add a cream cheese frosting for a bakery-style cake.
- Turn it into banana cupcakes by baking in muffin tins.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Using underripe bananas (they won’t give enough sweetness).
- ❌ Overmixing the batter (can make the cake dense).
- ❌ Baking at too high a temperature (leads to dry cake).
- ❌ Skipping the cooling step before frosting (frosting will melt).
Storage & Meal Prep
- Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerate for up to 5 days.
- Freeze slices wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temp before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with coffee, tea, or a glass of cold milk.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
- Add fresh berries on top for a fruity twist.
FAQs About Banana Cake
Q1: Can I make this banana cake without eggs?
Yes! Replace each egg with a flax egg (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water) for a vegan version.
Q2: Can I use frozen bananas?
Absolutely. Just thaw them first, drain excess liquid, and mash well.
Q3: Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend.
Q4: How do I know when the cake is done?
Insert a toothpick in the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Conclusion
There you have it—a classic, moist, and fluffy banana cake recipe that’s perfect for any occasion! Whether you serve it plain, frosted, or with a scoop of ice cream, this cake is sure to win hearts.
👉 Try this recipe today and let me know in the comments how you liked it! Don’t forget to save and share it on Pinterest for later.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 24g
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g