The Ultimate Banana Cake is a delightful and indulgent dessert that celebrates the rich flavors of ripe bananas and creamy cream cheese frosting. This cake is the perfect combination of moist and tender banana cake layers topped with a luscious cream cheese frosting, adorned with a variety of delicious toppings. Whether served at a birthday party, special occasion, or simply as a treat to satisfy your sweet cravings, this cake is sure to be a hit among friends and family.

The history of banana cakes can be traced back to the early 20th century when bananas became more widely available and popular in the United States. As bananas ripened quickly and couldn’t be stored for long periods, home cooks began incorporating them into various recipes, including cakes.

The Ultimate Banana Cake is a modern twist on the classic banana cake, taking inspiration from various dessert trends and toppings. Its playful and colorful appearance makes it a popular choice for celebrations, and its delectable taste has made it a sought-after recipe for gatherings and parties.

INGREDIENTS

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 3 medium ripe bananas
• 2/3 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/8 teaspoon salt
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 2 oz. cream cheese, softened
• 3/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Toppings:

• Caramel sauce
• 1/4 cup semisweet chocolate chips, melted or chocolate syrup
• 1/4 cup mini chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup salted peanuts
• 1/2 jar Maraschino cherries, cut in half
• Sprinkles

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Preparation: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175°C) and spray an 8-x-8-inch baking pan with nonstick spray.
2. Cake Batter: In a stand mixer, combine sugar, softened butter, eggs, and vanilla. Mix on medium speed for 3 minutes or until well incorporated.
3. Banana Addition: Meanwhile, smash 3 large ripe bananas using a potato masher and add them to the cake batter.
4. Dry Ingredients: Slowly add milk, baking soda, salt, and flour to the batter, mixing until well combined. The batter should be smooth and free of lumps.
5. Baking: Pour the cake batter into the prepared baking pan and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the middle comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool completely before proceeding.
6. Cream Cheese Frosting: Prepare the cream cheese frosting by mixing softened cream cheese, confectioners’ sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
7. Frosting & Toppings: Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly over the top of the cooled cake. Drizzle caramel sauce over the frosting according to your preference, followed by melted chocolate or chocolate syrup.
8. Toppings Galore: Add halved Maraschino cherries, mini chocolate chips, salted peanuts, and sprinkles on top of the cake. The toppings not only enhance the cake’s appearance but also add extra layers of flavors and textures.
9. Chill & Serve: Place the cake in the fridge for at least 2 hours or until the cream cheese frosting sets. Once set, cut the cake into squares and serve to enjoy the Ultimate Banana Cake’s delightful blend of sweet banana and creamy goodness.