Pioneer Woman Banana Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

Why Make This Recipe

Pioneer Woman Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting is a delightful dessert that combines the moistness of ripe bananas with the rich flavor of cream cheese. This cake is perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or just a sweet treat to enjoy at home. It’s simple to make, and it brings a wonderful sweetness to any occasion. Plus, who can resist a slice of cake topped with fluffy cream cheese frosting?

How to Make Pioneer Woman Banana Cake

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1⅓ cups granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup sour cream
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 4 medium bananas, mashed
  • 8 oz cream cheese, softened
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 3 cups powdered sugar

Directions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Grease and flour two 8-inch cake pans.
  2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  4. Add the sour cream and vanilla extract, and mix until well combined.
  5. In another bowl, mix the dry ingredients: flour, baking soda, and salt.
  6. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
  7. Fold in the mashed bananas gently.
  8. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans.
  9. Bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  10. Allow the cakes to cool completely in the pans.
  11. For the frosting, beat together the cream cheese and butter until smooth.
  12. Add the vanilla extract and powdered sugar, and mix until fluffy.
  13. Once the cakes are cool, frost them generously with the cream cheese frosting.
  14. Slice, serve, and enjoy!

How to Serve Pioneer Woman Banana Cake

This banana cake is best served at room temperature. Cut it into slices and plate it nicely for guests. You can enjoy it as is or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. It’s perfect for a cozy family dessert or a festive occasion.

How to Store Pioneer Woman Banana Cake

To store any leftover cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Just make sure that it’s well-covered to prevent it from drying out.

Tips to Make Pioneer Woman Banana Cake

  1. Use ripe bananas for the best flavor. They should be brown and soft.
  2. Don’t overmix the batter; just combine until everything is mixed.
  3. Let the cakes cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.

Variation

You can add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture. Another option is to include chocolate chips for a delicious chocolate twist.

FAQs

  1. Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
    Yes, frozen bananas work well too! Just thaw them and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
  2. Can I make this recipe into cupcakes?
    Absolutely! You can divide the batter into cupcake liners and bake for about 20-25 minutes.
  3. How can I make the cake healthier?
    You can substitute some of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour and use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream.
Slice of Pioneer Woman banana cake with cream cheese frosting on a plate

Pioneer Woman Banana Cake With Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe

A delightful banana cake, moist and flavorful, topped with a rich, tangy cream cheese frosting. This classic dessert is perfect for any occasion, offering a comforting and sweet treat.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 12 slices
Calories: 400

Ingredients
  

Cake
  • 2 cups All-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups Granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp Baking soda
  • 0.5 tsp Salt
  • 1.5 cups Ripe bananas, mashed about 3-4 medium
  • 0.5 cup Unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 Large eggs
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • 0.5 cup Buttermilk or milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice/vinegar
Cream Cheese Frosting
  • 8 oz Cream cheese, softened 1 block
  • 0.5 cup Unsalted butter, softened 1 stick
  • 3-4 cups Powdered sugar
  • 1 tsp Vanilla extract
  • Pinch of salt

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons
  • 9x13 inch baking pan
  • Wire rack
  • Spatula
  • Whisk

Method
 

Cake
  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x13 inch baking pan by greasing and flouring it.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, combine the wet ingredients: mashed bananas, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
  5. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  6. Allow the cake to cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before frosting.
Cream Cheese Frosting
  1. In a large bowl, cream together the softened cream cheese and butter with an electric mixer until smooth and fluffy.
  2. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, mixing on low speed until fully incorporated and smooth.
  3. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt until the frosting is light and spreadable.
Assembly
  1. Once the cake is completely cooled, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top using an offset spatula or knife.
  2. Slice and serve the cake, optionally garnishing with extra banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Notes

For best results, ensure your bananas are very ripe with plenty of brown spots. This adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.

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