Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare Pans
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans, or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon (if using). Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter with the granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air, which helps make the cake tender.
4. Add Eggs and Vanilla
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. Then fold in the mashed bananas until evenly combined.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix just until incorporated—overmixing can make the cake dense.
6. Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
7. Prepare the Buttercream Frosting
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, alternating with a little cream or milk. Beat until smooth and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Adjust consistency by adding more milk if the frosting is too thick or more powdered sugar if too thin.
8. Assemble the Cake
Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of buttercream on top. Place the second cake layer over it and frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with optional chopped walnuts or banana slices for a beautiful finishing touch.
Tips for the Perfect Banana Cake
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Use very ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the more natural sweetness and flavor your cake will have.
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Room temperature ingredients: Make sure butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for a smoother batter.
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Avoid overmixing: This keeps the cake tender and light.
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Chill before slicing: If the buttercream feels soft, refrigerate the cake for 30 minutes before cutting to ensure clean slices.
Why You’ll Love This Cake
This banana cake is moist, flavorful, and comforting, with a buttercream frosting that’s rich but not overly sweet. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of banana sweetness and creamy frosting, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Whether for a casual family dessert or a celebratory cake, it’s a recipe that never disappoints.
