Simple Moist and Fluffy Banana Cake

Bananas are one of my FAVORITE ingredients to use in the kitchen. It comes in handy for a quick snack, makes for great toast and of course banana bread! If you find yourself with a few extra bananas then indulging in this heavenly slice of moist and fluffy banana cake will transport your taste buds to cloud nine!

This banana cake recipe combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a light and tender texture that you can see in all the pictures! I love a good cake close up! haha! It’s also the perfect balance of moistness ( is that a word??) and fluffiness, which creates a truly delicious cake that will leave you wanting more. It’s great for baking novice ( we’ve all been there) or an expert in the kitchen, this recipe is really user-friendly and foolproof.

Banany cake ( this is what I call it haha) is very different from banana bread. Banana cake is more dressed up and has a frosting on top that is usually cream cheese based! It’s so funny to eat banana cake for the first time because you automatically want it to taste like banana bread. It’s actually super confusing for the brain! haha! But I think you’ll love it.

Again, this recipe and ingredients is easy-to-follow so you’ll be able to whip up this banana cake in no time.

Ingredients for the Perfect Banana Cake

This banana cake is layered with cream cheese frosting and is made with a 9×13 pan but can also be made with 2 9inch rounds! Either way its a delicious cake to make on the weekend or during the weekday for the family. Just make sure you have some really ripe bananas. Bananas that are ripe have plenty of brown spots on the outside. This means they are super sweet and are perfect for making banana recipes like this!

To create the perfect banana cake, you’ll need the following ingredients. I’ve added a few why’s if you want to read that! Otherwise just scroll down to the recipe!

1. Ripe bananas: Use bananas that are slightly overripe. This will provide the best flavor and sweetness for your cake. Mash them well!
2. All-purpose flour: This will give your banana cake structure and help it rise. Be sure to sift the flour to remove any lumps and create a lighter texture.
3. Baking powder and baking soda: Leavening agents are important bece it will give your cake a nice rise and a fluffy texture. Be sure to use the correct amount specified in the recipe. And make sure it’s not expired!
4. Salt: Just a pinch of salt will balance the sweetness of the bananas and enhance the overall flavor of the cake.
5. Unsalted butter: Use softened butter to ensure easy mixing and a tender crumb in your cake. Room temperature butter will cream together with the sugar more easily, creating a light and fluffy texture. I prefer KerryGold Butter for baking.
6. Granulated sugar: This will add sweetness to your cake and help with browning during baking. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy to incorporate air into the batter, resulting in a lighter texture.
7. Eggs: The eggs act as a binding agent and add moisture to the cake. Adding them one at a time for a smoother batter.
8. Vanilla extract: Use REAL pure vanilla extract for the best results. I always add extra vanilla to all my recipes lol!
9. Buttermilk: This ingredient adds moisture and tanginess to the cake. If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a substitute by mixing regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar.
10. Optional additions: You can include chopped nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, to add a crunchy texture and extra flavor to your banana cake. Chocolate chips or shredded coconut can also be great additions.

How to Make a Moist and Fluffy Banana Cake (Step by Step with Pictures)

Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to dive into the step-by-step process of baking your moist and fluffy banana cake. Follow these instructions carefully for a perfect result:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your cake pans by greasing them with butter or lining them with parchment paper.
2. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This can be done using an electric mixer or by hand with a wooden spoon.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure all the ingredients are well incorporated.
5. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until evenly combined.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a dense cake.
7. If desired, fold in any optional additions, such as chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Rotate the pans halfway through baking to ensure even browning.
10. Once baked, remove the cake pans from the oven and let them cool on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. Then, remove the cakes from the pans and allow them to cool completely before frosting.

Tips and tricks for achieving the perfect texture

Achieving a moist and fluffy texture in your banana cake requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. Follow these tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly:

1. Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas that have brown spots on the skin and are easy to mash.
2. Mash the bananas well: Mash the bananas thoroughly to ensure a smooth texture in your cake batter. This will help distribute the banana flavor evenly throughout the cake.
3. Cream the butter and sugar properly: Creaming the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy is crucial for incorporating air into the batter. This will result in a lighter texture in the final cake.
4. Be mindful of mixing: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense cake. Mix the ingredients until just combined to avoid overdeveloping the gluten in the flour, which can make the cake tough.
5. Use the correct pan size: Using the recommended pan size in the recipe will ensure the cake bakes evenly and rises properly. If you use a larger or smaller pan, the baking time and texture may be affected.
6. Don’t overbake: Keep a close eye on the cake as it bakes to avoid overbaking. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake to check for doneness. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs clinging to it, the cake is ready.

By following these tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to creating the perfect texture in your moist and fluffy banana cake.

Variations and Additions to Enhance the Flavor of Banana Cake

Banana cake can easily be customized to suit your taste preferences. The basic recipe is already incredibly delicious, but there are several variations and additions you can incorporate to take it to the next level. Here are a few ideas:

1. Chocolate Chip Banana Cake: Add a handful of dark or semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful twist. The combination of melted chocolate and sweet bananas is simply irresistible.
2. Nutty Banana Cake: If you enjoy a bit of crunch in your cake, try adding chopped walnuts, pecans, or almonds to the batter. These nuts not only add texture but also complement the natural sweetness of the bananas.
3. Spiced Banana Cake: For a warm and cozy flavor profile, consider adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cloves to your banana cake batter. These spices create a comforting aroma and add depth to the overall taste.
4. Cream Cheese Frosting: While banana cake is delicious on its own, a creamy cream cheese frosting can take it to the next level. The tanginess of cream cheese beautifully balances the sweetness of the cake, creating a harmonious combination. Don’t worry our Cream Cheese Frosting recipe is below!
5. Caramel Sauce: Drizzle a luscious caramel or butterscotch sauce over your banana cake for an indulgent treat. The richness of the sauce pairs perfectly with the moistness of the cake, creating a decadent dessert.

Feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create a banana cake that is truly unique to your taste.

Serving and Storing Your Banana Cake

Once your banana cake is baked to perfection, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Here are some tips for serving and storing your banana cake:

1. Allow the Cake to Cool: Before serving, make sure to let your banana cake cool completely. This allows the flavors to develop fully and ensures that the cake is easy to handle.
2. Slice and Serve: Use a sharp knife to slice the banana cake into even pieces. Serve on a plate or a cake stand for an elegant presentation. You can enjoy the cake as is or add a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
3. Store in an Airtight Container: To keep your banana cake fresh and moist, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. Avoid placing it in the refrigerator, as this can cause the cake to dry out.
4. Freezing Banana Cake: If you have leftover banana cake or want to prepare it in advance, you can freeze it for future enjoyment. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container. When ready to eat, simply thaw the cake at room temperature and enjoy!

By following these serving and storing tips, you can ensure that your banana cake stays fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Baking Banana Cake

1. Can I use overripe bananas for banana cake? Yes, overripe bananas are actually ideal for banana cake. They are sweeter and have a more pronounced banana flavor, which enhances the taste of the cake.
2. Can I substitute butter with oil in the banana cake recipe? Yes, you can substitute an equal amount of oil for butter in the recipe. However, keep in mind that this may slightly affect the texture and flavor of the cake.
3. Can I use frozen bananas for banana cake? Yes, you can use frozen bananas for banana cake. Thaw them before mashing and incorporate them into the batter as you would with fresh bananas.
4. Why is my banana cake dry? There are a few reasons why your banana cake may turn out dry. Overbaking, using too little liquid, or overmixing the batter can all contribute to a dry texture. Make sure to follow the recipe instructions carefully and avoid overbaking.
5. Can I make banana cake without eggs? Yes, there are eggless banana cake recipes available that use substitutes such as applesauce, mashed bananas, or yogurt to replace the eggs. These recipes can yield delicious results for those with dietary restrictions or allergies.

Remember, baking is a creative process, and it’s normal to have questions along the way! I know I always do. If I don’t google them myself then I call my mom who is basically google! ha!

Enjoy Your Slice of Heaven

This moist and fluffy banana cake is truly a slice of heaven and I hope you enjoy it! It’s a banana dessert crowd-pleaser that will satisfy even the most picky eaters! By following our recipe and tips shared I know you can create your own slice of banana cake heaven in the comfort of your kitchen! So go ahead, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to BAKE!