Name: Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 cup granulated sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup sour cream; 3 ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup chopped walnuts; 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 cups powdered sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 cup heavy cream (as needed for desired consistency); Chopped walnuts, for garnish

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If you’re searching for the ultimate indulgence that combines classic comfort and dreamy decadence, look no further than Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake. This cake is a showstopper: super moist from ripe bananas, studded with crunchy walnuts, and smothered in a tangy cream cheese frosting so luscious it practically melts on your tongue. Every bite delivers a perfect harmony of rich banana flavor, toasted nuttiness, and pillowy cream, making it a dessert that will steal the spotlight at any gathering—or simply elevate an ordinary day at home.

Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This cake is crafted from simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, yet every component is essential to its extraordinary flavor and soft, cloudlike crumb. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each piece truly matters.

All-purpose flour: The backbone of our cake, bringing the perfect structure while keeping every bite tender.
Baking powder and baking soda: This dynamic duo helps the cake rise beautifully for a light, fluffy texture.
Salt: Just a hint, but it elevates all the sweet and nutty flavors in the cake and frosting.
Cinnamon: A cozy note of warmth that enhances the bananas and adds depth.
Unsalted butter (softened): Gives the cake its rich, buttery backdrop and also creates that heavenly frosting texture.
Granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake to just the right level while aiding in that soft crumb.
Large eggs: Essential for binding everything together and lending richness.
Vanilla extract: Infuses a gently fragrant sweetness in both cake and frosting.
Sour cream: This is the secret weapon for extra moisture and subtle tang.
Ripe bananas (mashed): The star of the show! Use bananas with freckles for the best flavor and softness.
Chopped walnuts: Adds a satisfying crunch and classic nutty flavor.
Cream cheese (for frosting): Makes the frosting irresistibly creamy with a bit of tang.
Powdered sugar (for frosting): Dissolves smoothly for a velvety finish.
Heavy cream (for frosting): Adjusts consistency to your liking; just a splash transforms the frosting.
Chopped walnuts (for garnish): Makes for an eye-catching, tasty finishing touch.

How to Make Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake

Step 1: Prep and Preheat

First things first: set your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s piping hot and ready for baking. Grease a 9×13-inch baking pan—you can use butter or a spritz of non-stick spray—so nothing will stick and every piece slides out easily.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, gently whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. This quick step ensures everything is evenly combined, giving your cake a uniform lift and that beautiful, tender crumb throughout.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture looks pale and fluffy—about 2 to 3 minutes. Don’t rush this part! Creaming really aerates the batter to keep the Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake light as air.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. This helps maintain that dreamy texture. Follow with a full teaspoon of vanilla extract, for a soft background of sweetness and aroma.

Step 5: Mix in Bananas and Sour Cream

Add your mashed, extra-ripe bananas and creamy sour cream to the bowl. Mix until everything is blended and smooth—this is where your cake gets its signature moistness and mellow banana flavor!

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time for the magic. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, just until combined (don’t overmix!). Gently fold in the chopped walnuts at the end, distributing them evenly so every bite pops with nutty crunch.

Step 7: Bake and Cool

Pour the luscious batter into your prepared pan, smoothing it out with a spatula. Slide it into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean from the center. Let the cake cool completely—trust me, it’s worth the wait for a perfect frosting canvas.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Frosting

While the cake cools, beat together softened cream cheese and butter until silky and unified. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla, whipping again until airy and creamy. Splash in heavy cream as needed for that irresistible spreadable texture.

Step 9: Frost and Garnish

Slather the cooled cake generously with your cream cheese frosting, swirling it as extravagantly as you like. Sprinkle with extra chopped walnuts for a beautiful and tasty finish. For cleaner slices, chill the cake for 20 to 30 minutes before serving.

How to Serve Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake

Garnishes

Nothing beats a generous handful of chopped walnuts scattered on top, catching the light and hinting at the flavors inside. For an extra flourish, try a dusting of cinnamon or a few banana slices arranged artfully just before serving. Every bit of garnish adds both texture and a pop of bakery-worthy elegance.

Side Dishes

A slice of Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake pairs beautifully with a tall glass of cold milk, a mug of hot coffee, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream. For a sophisticated twist, serve alongside fresh berries or a citrus fruit salad to balance its creamy sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to make your presentation extra special, cut the cake into mini squares for dessert bars or turn it into delightful cupcakes for an easy-to-serve treat at parties. The Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake also looks stunning as a two-layer round cake—just double the frosting recipe to ensure ample coverage all around!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to five days. Simply wrap the pan tightly with plastic wrap or store individual slices in airtight containers. You’ll find the flavors get even more luscious as they meld overnight.

Freezing

If you need to stash some for a rainy day, this cake freezes like a dream! Freeze frosted or unfrosted slices in a single layer until solid, then transfer to freezer bags or containers. They’ll keep well for up to two months, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator.

Reheating

Want that fresh-from-the-oven feel? Let a slice come to room temperature, or microwave it on low for about 15 seconds. If your cake is unfrosted, you can even pop it in a 300°F oven for a few minutes. Either way, it will be scrumptious!

FAQs

Can I make Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake without nuts?

Absolutely! If you’re baking for anyone with a nut allergy or simply prefer a nut-free treat, just leave out the walnuts—the cake will still be incredibly moist and full of banana flavor.

What’s the best way to ripen bananas quickly?

If your bananas aren’t quite ripe, place them in a paper bag with an apple or a ripe banana overnight. For a super quick hack, bake unpeeled bananas in a 300°F oven for 15 minutes until the skins darken and the flesh softens.

Can I turn this recipe into cupcakes?

Definitely! Simply divide the batter among lined muffin tins and reduce the bake time to about 20 to 25 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean. Frost and garnish as you would the full cake for adorable, portable Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cakes!

Is there a lighter alternative to cream cheese frosting?

For a lighter touch, try a whipped cream cheese topping or even a vanilla Greek yogurt glaze. These still add tang and creaminess but are a bit less rich, letting the banana and walnut flavors shine even brighter.

How can I make this cake in advance for a party?

Bake the cake a day ahead and store (unfrosted) tightly covered at room temperature or in the fridge. Whip up the frosting on the day of serving for ultimate freshness. If you frost ahead, just keep it chilled and let it sit out for 20 minutes before slicing for best texture.

Final Thoughts

Few things bring as much joy to the table as a homemade Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake. Whether you’re baking for friends, family, or your own sweet tooth, this recipe promises a slice of pure happiness. So gather your ingredients, mash those bananas, and treat yourself to a cake that truly lives up to its name—you absolutely deserve it!

Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake Recipe

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4.6 from 30 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 12 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the heavenly flavors of this moist and delicious Banana Walnut Cream Cake. A perfect blend of ripe bananas, crunchy walnuts, and creamy frosting that will have you coming back for seconds!

Ingredients

Scale

Dry Ingredients:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

Wet Ingredients:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup sour cream
3 ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

For the frosting:

1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 cup heavy cream (as needed for desired consistency)
Chopped walnuts, for garnish

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Instructions

Preheat the oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking pan.
Prepare dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Mix wet ingredients: In a large bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar. Beat in eggs, one at a time, then add vanilla extract. Mix in sour cream and mashed bananas until smooth.
Combine and bake: Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, stirring just until combined. Fold in chopped walnuts. Pour batter into prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes until a toothpick inserted comes out clean. Cool before frosting.
Make the frosting: Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beat until fluffy. Add heavy cream until desired consistency. Frost the cake and garnish with walnuts. Chill before slicing.