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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.