Banana Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Walnuts

Introduction

Banana cake is a beloved classic that blends the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the richness of a moist cake. In this recipe, we take it up a notch with layers of luscious cream cheese frosting and crunchy walnuts, finished with banana slices for a fresh, elegant touch. Whether you're baking for a birthday, celebration, or just a weekend treat, this cake will surely impress everyone.

🛒 Ingredients

For the Banana Cake:

3 ripe bananas, mashed
3 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 cup brown sugar (packed)
1 cup unsalted butter (softened)
3 large eggs
1 cup buttermilk (or milk + 1 tbsp vinegar)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1½ tsp baking powder
1½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp salt
1 tsp cinnamon (optional)
1 cup chopped walnuts (optional for the batter)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

1 cup (225g) cream cheese, softened
½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened
3½ cups powdered sugar
1½ tsp vanilla extract
1–2 tbsp milk (optional, for smoother consistency)

For Garnish:

Fresh banana slices (use just before serving)
Extra chopped or halved walnuts

🥣 Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Cake Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour 2 or 3 round 9-inch cake pans (or use parchment paper).
Mash the bananas in a bowl using a fork or a hand mixer until smooth. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and both sugars until light and fluffy (about 3–4 minutes).
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract, and mix until combined.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.
Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the banana mixture, beginning and ending with the flour.
Fold in the chopped walnuts if using.

Step 2: Baking the Cake

Divide the batter evenly among the cake pans.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before frosting.

🧁 Making the Frosting

In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until creamy and smooth.
Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating well between each addition.
Add the vanilla extract and beat until fluffy.
If needed, add a tablespoon of milk to loosen the consistency.

🍰 Assembling the Cake

Trim the tops of the cake layers with a serrated knife if they are domed.
Place the first cake layer on your serving plate or cake stand.
Spread a generous layer of frosting over the top of the cake.
Add sliced bananas evenly over the frosting (optional but adds a great texture and freshness).
Place the second cake layer on top and repeat the frosting and banana layers.
Add the final cake layer and frost the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.
Use an offset spatula to smooth the top and sides.

🌰 Decorating the Cake

Arrange banana slices neatly on the top of the cake.
Sprinkle walnuts generously over the top.
Optional: Drizzle a bit of honey or maple syrup for an extra glossy finish.

Note: To prevent bananas from browning, slice and add them just before serving or brush them lightly with lemon juice.

📦 Storage

Room temperature: Can be kept covered for up to 24 hours.
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days.
Freezing: Wrap the unfrosted cake layers in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before assembling.

🔄 Variations

Add chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolate-banana combo.
Use Greek yogurt or sour cream instead of buttermilk for a denser cake.
Mix in crushed pineapple for a tropical twist.

✅ Tips for Success

Use overripe bananas—the spottier the better. They’re sweeter and easier to mash.
Don’t overmix the batter; mix just until the flour disappears.
Make sure the cakes are fully cooled before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
Use a serrated knife for clean, even slices of banana on top.

📝 Nutritional Estimate (Per Slice)

Based on 12 servings

Calories: ~450
Fat: 25g
Carbs: 55g
Protein: 5g
Sugar: 38g

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

This banana layer cake pairs beautifully with:

A cup of hot coffee or espresso
A scoop of vanilla ice cream
A drizzle of caramel sauce on top

Serve it chilled or at room temperature depending on your preference.

🧑‍🍳 Final Thoughts

This banana and walnut layer cake is not just a dessert—it's a celebration of flavor and texture. The natural sweetness of the bananas, the crunch from the walnuts, and the smooth cream cheese frosting create a perfect balance that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Perfect for holidays, family dinners, birthdays, or any special occasion, this cake will become a favorite in your recipe collection.

Happy baking! 🍌🎂

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Banana Layer Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting and Walnuts