Classic Banana Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This cake is easy to make and consistently delicious. The ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, resulting in a soft texture that stays fresh for days. It’s versatile enough to enjoy plain, with frosting, or alongside coffee or tea, making it a reliable go-to recipe.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ripe bananas, mashed
• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Butter, softened
• Eggs
• Milk
• Vanilla extract
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
2. In a bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
3. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract.
6. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool before slicing and serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 6–8 people.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: about 45 minutes

Variations

• Cream cheese frosting: Add a rich frosting for extra indulgence.
• Nutty version: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans.
• Chocolate twist: Add chocolate chips to the batter.
• Spiced cake: Add cinnamon or nutmeg.
• Healthier option: Use whole wheat flour or reduce sugar.

Storage/Reheating

Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
Reheat slightly in the microwave if desired, or enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

How ripe should bananas be?

Very ripe bananas with brown spots provide the best flavor.

Can I freeze banana cake?

Yes, freeze for up to 2 months.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, it stays moist and tastes great the next day.

What frosting goes best?

Cream cheese frosting is a popular choice.

Can I use oil instead of butter?

Yes, oil can be used for a slightly different texture.

Why is my cake dense?

Overmixing the batter can make it dense.

Can I make cupcakes?

Yes, bake for about 18–22 minutes.

How do I keep it moist?

Avoid overbaking and store properly.

Can I add mix-ins?

Yes, nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit work well.

Is this cake very sweet?

It’s moderately sweet and balanced by the bananas.

Conclusion

Classic Banana Cake is a simple, delicious dessert that never goes out of style. With its moist texture and rich banana flavor, it’s perfect for any occasion and easy to customize to your taste.

Classic Banana Cake

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A soft, moist banana cake made with simple ingredients and naturally sweet ripe bananas. This classic dessert is tender, comforting, and perfect for any occasion.

• Author: Laura
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 servings
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

• Ripe bananas, mashed
• All-purpose flour
• Sugar
• Butter, softened
• Eggs
• Milk
• Vanilla extract
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a cake pan.
2. In a bowl, mash the bananas until smooth.
3. Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
5. Stir in mashed bananas, milk, and vanilla extract.
6. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
7. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared pan.
9. Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
10. Let cool before slicing and serving.

Notes

• Add cream cheese frosting for a richer version.
• Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for texture.
• Mix in chocolate chips for a sweeter twist.
• Enhance with cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
• Use whole wheat flour or reduce sugar for a lighter option.
• Store at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freeze for up to 2 months if needed.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 280 kcal
• Sugar: 20 g
• Sodium: 190 mg
• Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 7 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 38 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg