Ina Garten’s Banana Cake is a rich and moist dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Made with ripe bananas, a touch of cinnamon, and a luscious cream cheese frosting, this cake is a comforting treat that everyone will love. Its soft texture and delightful flavor make it a crowd-pleaser at parties, family dinners, or even as an afternoon snack.

What is Ina Garten Banana Cake?

Ina Garten Banana Cake is a moist, flavorful cake made with ripe bananas and warm spices like cinnamon. Topped with a creamy and tangy cream cheese frosting, it’s a perfect way to use overripe bananas. This classic dessert is versatile and can be served as a simple snack cake or a more elegant layered treat.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Banana Cake

Uses overripe bananas: A great way to use bananas that might otherwise go to waste.
Perfectly moist texture: The bananas and sour cream ensure a soft and tender crumb.
Delicious frosting: The cream cheese frosting adds a tangy sweetness that complements the cake.
Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make it beginner-friendly.
Versatile: Works as a sheet cake, layered cake, or even cupcakes.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Banana Cake

For the Cake:

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
2 large eggs, at room temperature
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2 large bananas)
1/2 cup sour cream
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Banana Cake

Preheat the oven and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13-inch baking pan or line it with parchment paper.
Cream the butter and sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs and flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the vanilla extract.
Incorporate the bananas and sour cream: Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream until combined.
Combine the dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top. Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool completely in the pan.
Make the frosting: Beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and beat until light and fluffy. Stir in the vanilla extract.
Frost the cake: Once the cake is completely cool, spread the frosting evenly over the top.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Banana Cake

Serve with coffee: A hot cup of coffee pairs beautifully with the cake’s sweet and spiced flavors.
Add a scoop of ice cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream complements the cake perfectly.
Top with chopped nuts: Sprinkle walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Include fresh fruit: Serve with sliced bananas or berries for a refreshing touch.
Drizzle with caramel sauce: A drizzle of caramel takes this dessert to the next level.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Banana Cake

Use ripe bananas: Overripe bananas with brown spots will provide the best flavor and sweetness.
Measure accurately: Be precise with your measurements, especially for flour, to ensure the perfect texture.
Don’t overmix the batter: Mix until just combined to keep the cake light and tender.
Cool completely before frosting: Make sure the cake is fully cool to prevent the frosting from melting.
Sift powdered sugar for the frosting: Sifting ensures a smooth and creamy frosting.
Store properly: Keep the cake covered to maintain its moisture and freshness.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Banana Cake

Make it nutty: Add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for extra crunch.
Try chocolate chips: Fold in a handful of chocolate chips for a decadent twist.
Add spices: Enhance the flavor with a pinch of nutmeg or allspice.
Make cupcakes: Divide the batter into cupcake liners and adjust baking time to 18–20 minutes.
Create a layered cake: Double the recipe and bake in two round cake pans for a layered presentation.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Banana Cake

Store at room temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
Refrigerate for longer storage: Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, covered tightly.
Freeze the cake: Wrap slices or the whole cake (without frosting) in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips for Ina Garten Banana Cake

Bring to room temperature: Allow refrigerated cake to come to room temperature before serving.
Warm individual slices: Heat a slice in the microwave for 10–15 seconds for a freshly baked feel.
Avoid reheating with frosting: If frozen, thaw and frost the cake only after it has warmed to room temperature.

FAQs

Can I use frozen bananas for Ina Garten Banana Cake?

Yes, frozen bananas work perfectly for this recipe. Thaw them completely, drain any excess liquid, and mash them before adding to the batter.

How do I keep the banana cake moist?

To keep the cake moist, use ripe bananas and sour cream in the batter. Store the cake in an airtight container or wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Can I make Ina Garten Banana Cake without sour cream?

Yes, you can substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt or buttermilk. Both options will maintain the moist texture of the cake.

How long does banana cake last in the fridge?

Banana cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days if kept in an airtight container. For the best flavor, bring it to room temperature before serving.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Banana Cake is a classic dessert that combines the natural sweetness of bananas with the rich creaminess of frosting. Perfectly moist and flavorful, this cake is ideal for any occasion, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. Try this easy recipe, and enjoy a delicious homemade treat that’s sure to impress!

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