Description
This incredibly moist banana sheet cake is a simple yet indulgent way to transform overripe bananas into a crowd-pleasing dessert. Finished with a thick layer of tangy cream cheese frosting, it is a foolproof bake that stays fresh for days.
Ingredients
- 4 medium bananas, overripe and mashed
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 8 oz full-fat brick cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 3 cups confectioners’ sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (for frosting)
- 1 pinch salt (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (177°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt, then set aside.
- Using a stand mixer or hand mixer, beat the softened butter on high speed for 1 minute until creamy.
- Add the granulated and brown sugars to the butter and beat for 2 additional minutes until light and fluffy.
- Incorporate the eggs, vanilla extract, and mashed bananas into the butter mixture, beating until well combined.
- With the mixer on low speed, add the dry ingredients in three parts, alternating with the buttermilk, and mix until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Transfer the pan to a wire rack and allow the cake to cool completely.
- Prepare the frosting by beating the cream cheese and butter until smooth, then whip in the confectioners’ sugar, vanilla, and salt until creamy.
- Spread the frosting evenly over the cooled cake and chill for 30 minutes before serving.
Notes
To achieve the lightest texture, avoid overmixing the batter once the flour is added. If your kitchen is warm, let the frosted cake set in the refrigerator to ensure the cream cheese frosting holds its shape perfectly when sliced into squares.
- Prep Time: 20 mins
- Cook Time: 50 mins
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American