I have experience making peanut butter banana cake recipe from My Baking Addiction, a recipe that caught my attention because of its unique flavor pairing.
Inspired by a baking video I watched, I wanted to try this peanut butter banana cake recipe myself to enjoy the moist banana cake layered with creamy peanut butter frosting.
The main specialty of this peanut butter banana cake recipe lies in the balance between the natural sweetness of ripe bananas and the rich, smooth peanut butter frosting.
Now, I will share a detailed step-by-step guide to recreate this delicious peanut butter banana cake recipe, showing how easy and rewarding baking this cake can be.
About This Peanut Butter Banana Cake Recipe
This peanut butter banana cake recipe offers a delightful balance of flavors. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas shines through in the moist, tender crumb, creating a rich base.
The peanut butter frosting adds a creamy, slightly salty contrast that enhances the overall taste. The peanut butter banana cake recipe has a warm, comforting flavor that feels both indulgent and homey.
Subtle notes of vanilla and a hint of salt bring depth, making the taste well-rounded. The texture is soft and fluffy, while the frosting provides a smooth finish, creating a delicious treat that feels both rich and fresh at the same time.
How To Prepare Peanut Butter Banana Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Dessert / Snack
Cuisine: American
Yield: 12 servings
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric mixer or whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Spatula
- Potato masher or fork (for mashing bananas)
- Cooling rack
- Offset spatula or knife (for frosting)
Ingredients
For the Banana Cake:
- ¾ cup granulated white sugar
- ½ cup butter, melted (use dairy-free if preferred)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1½ cups ripe mashed bananas (about 3-4 ripe bananas)
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 oz cream cheese, room temperature
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- Marshmallow fluff
Instructions
1. First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a 9×13 inch baking pan ready by greasing it and sprinkling a bit of flour, or just use parchment paper to line it.
2. Take your bananas and mash them well in a bowl. Aim for smooth but keep a few small chunks for some texture.
3. In a large bowl, mix melted butter with both granulated and light brown sugars, and then add the eggs. Beat everything together until smooth and creamy.
4. Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract into that mixture and stir until everything is fully mixed. In a different bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
5. Now slowly add the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, alternating with milk. Start with the dry stuff and finish with it too. Mix just enough so everything comes together don’t over mix or the bread might turn out dense.
6. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Bake it for about 45 minutes. Check if it’s done by poking a toothpick in the center if it comes out clean, it’s ready. Take the pan out and let the cake cool completely on a rack.
7. While it cools, make the frosting. Beat together cream cheese, peanut butter, and butter until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until the frosting is thick but easy to spread.
8. When the cake is cooled, spread the frosting evenly on top. For extra flavor and fun texture, you can swirl some marshmallow fluff over the frosting if you like. Then slice it up and enjoy!
Notes:
Ripe bananas are essential for the best flavor and moisture the browner, the better. You can swap milk for almond or oat milk to make it dairy-free. The frosting can be adjusted to taste; add more powdered sugar for a stiffer frosting or a splash of milk for a creamier texture. Marshmallow fluff adds a fun, sweet finish but is totally optional.
Nutrition Facts Of Peanut Butter Banana Cake Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Protein | 5g |
| Sugar | 28g |
Why This Recipe Is A Must-Try?
This peanut butter banana cake recipe is a must-try because it brings together familiar flavors in a way that feels new and exciting.
The cake’s moist texture, thanks to ripe bananas, pairs beautifully with the creamy peanut butter frosting, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory. It’s a great way to use up overripe bananas while enjoying a dessert that feels comforting and indulgent.
The recipe delivers consistently delicious results, making it a reliable choice for anyone looking to bake something both flavorful and satisfying without complicated steps.
Why My Recipe Works
This peanut butter banana cake recipe succeeds because the ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, keeping the cake tender and soft. Melted butter blends smoothly into the batter, creating a rich texture.
The right balance of baking soda and baking powder ensures the cake rises properly, giving it a light crumb. The peanut butter frosting uses cream cheese to add creaminess and a slight tang, enhancing the overall flavor.
Careful mixing prevents overworking the batter, maintaining the cake’s fluffiness. These elements work together to produce a cake that tastes delicious and holds its shape well.
Health Benefits
This peanut butter banana cake recipe offers some nutritional perks despite being a dessert. Ripe bananas provide potassium, vitamins, and natural sweetness, helping reduce the need for added sugars.
Peanut butter contributes protein and healthy fats, which can support energy and keep you feeling fuller longer. Using real ingredients like butter and cream cheese adds some essential fats and nutrients, while the cake’s portion control helps enjoy a treat without overindulgence.
Though it’s still a sweet dish, this recipe can be a more wholesome choice compared to heavily processed desserts, especially when made with quality ingredients and enjoyed in moderation.
Amazing Serving Ideas
Serve this peanut butter banana cake recipe slightly chilled or at room temperature to enjoy the full flavor of the frosting. Add a handful of chopped peanuts on top for a crunchy texture contrast.
Pear slices with a cup of strong coffee or creamy milk to enhance the rich flavors. For a fun twist, warm individual pieces briefly before serving, then add a small dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of honey.
Fresh banana slices on the side also brighten the presentation and deepen the banana taste. This peanut butter banana cake recipe shines as a delightful dessert or an indulgent snack.
When To Serve
This peanut butter banana cake recipe is great to serve as a dessert after dinner, offering a sweet finish that feels comforting and satisfying. It also works well as a special treat for afternoon tea or coffee breaks.
Bringing it out at gatherings or celebrations adds a homemade touch that guests will appreciate. The cake keeps well, so it can be prepared ahead of time and served during busy days when a quick, delicious dessert is needed.
Enjoying peanut butter banana cake recipe slightly chilled or at room temperature enhances the flavors, making any moment feel a little more special.
Best Variations
✔ Chocolate Swirl: Add melted chocolate or cocoa powder to part of the batter and swirl it through before baking for a rich chocolate-banana twist. Top the cake with chocolate ganache or chocolate chips mixed into the frosting.
✔ Nutty Crunch: Mix chopped walnuts, pecans, or peanuts into the batter for added texture and a toasty flavor. Sprinkle some nuts on top of the frosting for extra crunch.
✔ Coconut Delight: Add shredded coconut to the batter and sprinkle toasted coconut flakes on the frosting. Coconut milk can replace regular milk for a subtle tropical touch.
✔ Spiced Banana: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves or allspice to the batter for warm, aromatic flavors that complement the banana and peanut butter beautifully.
✔ Vegan Version: Use flax eggs (ground flaxseed mixed with water), plant-based milk, and dairy-free butter and cream cheese alternatives to make the cake vegan while maintaining great taste and texture.
Top Baking Tips
1. Choose bananas that are very soft and speckled brown for the richest flavor and moistest cake.
2. Scoop flour gently into your measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid adding too much, which can make the cake dry.
3. Bring eggs and butter to room temperature before mixing; this helps the ingredients combine more evenly for a smoother batter.
4. Mix the batter just until the flour disappears to maintain a tender crumb and prevent toughness.
5. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center when it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, the cake is ready.
6. Allow the cake to cool fully before spreading frosting to keep it from sliding or melting.
7. Whip the frosting well using a hand or stand mixer to create a light and fluffy texture that spreads easily.
How To Make With More Delicious
➤ Folding chopped roasted peanuts or walnuts into the cake batter introduces a satisfying crunch and enhances the nutty flavor, making each slice more interesting and textured. The toasted nuts bring a warm, earthy note that pairs beautifully with the bananas and peanut butter.
➤ Adding dark chocolate chips to the batter or sprinkling them over the frosting creates pockets of melted chocolate in every bite. The slight bitterness of dark chocolate contrasts the sweetness of the cake and frosting, adding richness and complexity.
➤ Using brown butter instead of regular melted butter adds a deep, nutty aroma and caramel-like flavor. Browning the butter before mixing it into the batter brings a subtle toasted taste that elevates the overall flavor profile.
➤ Incorporating warm spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter adds layers of cozy flavor. These spices complement the bananas perfectly and enhance the peanut butter’s richness without overpowering the cake.
➤ Drizzling honey or pure maple syrup over the frosted cake adds a glossy sheen and an extra touch of natural sweetness. This final addition provides a delicate floral or caramel flavor, making the cake even more indulgent and appealing.
Storage Recommendations
Store the peanut butter banana cake recipe in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Refrigerate it, especially because of the cream cheese frosting, which needs to stay cool.
The peanut butter banana cake recipe will stay moist and flavorful for up to four days when properly stored. Before serving, let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes to soften the frosting slightly.
For longer storage, the cake can be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and frozen for up to two months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge before enjoying preserving its texture and taste.
Conclusion
This peanut butter banana cake recipe is a delicious and wholesome treat that everyone will enjoy. After making it several times, I can say it always turns out moist and flavorful, perfect for sharing with family and friends.
I created this peanut butter banana cake recipe to serve loved ones and have enjoyed it on many occasions. The method I use is simple and reliable, making baking fun and stress-free.
I hope sharing this easy peanut butter banana cake recipe inspires you to try it yourself and experience the wonderful taste and comfort it brings.
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Peanut Butter Banana Cake Recipe
Equipment
- Mixing bowls (large and medium)
- Electric mixer (or whisk)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Spatula
- Potato masher or fork (for mashing bananas)
- Cooling rack
- Offset spatula or knife (for frosting)
Ingredients
For the Banana Cake:
- ¾ cup granulated white sugar
- ½ cup butter melted (use dairy-free if preferred)
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1½ cups ripe mashed bananas about 3-4 ripe bananas
- 2¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
For the Peanut Butter Frosting:
- ½ cup creamy peanut butter
- 4 oz cream cheese room temperature
- ¼ cup unsalted butter room temperature
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1½ cups powdered sugar
- Marshmallow fluff
Instructions
- First, set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get a 9×13 inch baking pan ready by greasing it and sprinkling a bit of flour, or just use parchment paper to line it.
- Take your bananas and mash them well in a bowl. Aim for smooth but keep a few small chunks for some texture.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter with both granulated and light brown sugars, and then add the eggs. Beat everything together until smooth and creamy.
- Add the mashed bananas and vanilla extract into that mixture and stir until everything is fully mixed. In a different bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- Now slowly add the dry ingredients into the banana mixture, alternating with milk. Start with the dry stuff and finish with it too. Mix just enough so everything comes together don’t over mix or the bread might turn out dense.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan, spreading it out evenly with a spatula. Bake it for about 45 minutes. Check if it’s done by poking a toothpick in the center if it comes out clean, it’s ready. Take the pan out and let the cake cool completely on a rack.
- While it cools, make the frosting. Beat together cream cheese, peanut butter, and butter until smooth and creamy. Stir in vanilla extract. Gradually add powdered sugar and beat until the frosting is thick but easy to spread.
- When the cake is cooled, spread the frosting evenly on top. For extra flavor and fun texture, you can swirl some marshmallow fluff over the frosting if you like. Then slice it up and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Peanut Butter Banana Cake Recipe
Calories 350 kcal | Fat 18g | Carbohydrates 40g | Protein 5g | Sugar 28gHi! I’m Sophia, your trusted cake guide with years of hands-on baking experience. I’m passionate about creating delicious and wholesome cakes that bring happiness to every occasion and home. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, I’m here to share tips, recipes, and inspiration to make your baking journey enjoyable and rewarding. From classic flavors to healthy twists, my goal is to help you discover the joy of baking and sharing beautiful cakes with family and friends.