If you love the combination of bananas, walnuts, and creamy frosting, this heavenly banana walnut cream cake is the perfect dessert for you. It’s rich, moist, and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a treat to enjoy with family and friends. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs beautifully with the crunch of toasted walnuts, while the smooth and luscious cream frosting adds an irresistible finishing touch. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced baker, this cake is easy to make and guarantees delicious results.
One of the best things about this heavenly banana walnut cream cake is its versatility. You can serve it as a simple layer cake, turn it into cupcakes, or even bake it in a bundt pan for a stunning presentation. Plus, the ingredients are pantry staples, so you likely already have everything you need. The balance of flavors and textures makes this cake an instant favorite, and the addition of walnuts provides a delightful crunch that enhances every bite. Not to mention, bananas keep the cake extra moist, ensuring it stays fresh for days.
Another reason this cake stands out is its rich history. Banana cakes have been popular for generations, and adding walnuts and cream frosting elevates the classic recipe to a new level. The result is a soft and fluffy cake with just the right amount of sweetness, making it perfect for any occasion. If you love homemade cakes with a comforting, bakery-style flavor, this recipe is definitely worth trying.
Why You’ll Love This Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake
There are so many reasons to love this cake. First, the combination of bananas and walnuts creates a naturally sweet and nutty flavor that is both comforting and indulgent. The moist texture ensures that every bite melts in your mouth, while the smooth and creamy frosting provides a perfect contrast to the dense yet tender crumb of the cake. Another great reason to make this cake is that it’s easy to customize. If you want to add chocolate chips for extra sweetness or a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, spiced flavor, this recipe allows for endless variations.
Additionally, this cake is perfect for both casual and formal occasions. Whether you’re making it for a special celebration, a family gathering, or simply as an everyday dessert, it’s guaranteed to be a hit. Since bananas naturally enhance the moisture of baked goods, this cake stays fresh longer than other cakes, making it an excellent option for meal prepping or storing leftovers. Plus, it pairs well with coffee, tea, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Ingredients for the Best Banana Walnut Cream Cake
To make this delicious heavenly banana walnut cream cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise and creates a light texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – Adds warmth and depth.
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and flavor.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly.
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar – Adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the natural sweetness.
- 1 ¼ cups (310g) mashed ripe bananas – Provides moisture and flavor.
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk – Ensures a tender crumb.
- ¾ cup (90g) chopped walnuts – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
For the Cream Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened – Creates a smooth and tangy frosting.
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Makes the frosting creamy and rich.
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a hint of warmth and enhances the sweetness.
- ¼ cup (60g) chopped walnuts (for garnish, optional) – Provides a decorative and flavorful topping.
These ingredients come together to create a moist, flavorful cake with a luscious, creamy frosting that complements every bite. If you prefer a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt instead of buttermilk or substitute half of the butter with applesauce.
Essential Kitchen Equipment
To make this heavenly banana walnut cream cake, you’ll need the following kitchen tools:
- Mixing bowls – For combining dry and wet ingredients separately.
- Electric mixer – Helps create a smooth batter and fluffy frosting.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accurate ingredient proportions.
- Cake pans (two 9-inch round pans or one bundt pan) – For baking the cake.
- Cooling rack – Allows the cake to cool evenly before frosting.
- Spatula or offset knife – Helps spread the frosting smoothly.
Having all your equipment ready will make the baking process easier and more enjoyable.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Banana Walnut Cream Cake
- Preheat the oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans or a bundt pan.
- Prepare the dry ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mix the wet ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
- Combine the ingredients – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Bake the cake – Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely – Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the frosting – In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
- Assemble the cake – Spread a layer of frosting over one cake layer, then place the second layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting and sprinkle chopped walnuts on top.
- Serve and enjoy – Slice the cake and serve immediately, or chill for a firmer texture.
Conclusion
This heavenly banana walnut cream cake is a delightful dessert that combines the best flavors and textures in one perfect bite. The moist banana cake, crunchy walnuts, and creamy frosting create an unforgettable treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for a celebration or simply as a weekend treat, this cake is guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s easy to make, highly customizable, and pairs beautifully with coffee or tea. Try this recipe today and enjoy a homemade cake that’s rich, flavorful, and absolutely delicious. If you love this recipe, don’t forget to share it with your friends and subscribe for more amazing desserts!
PrintHeavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake Recipe for a Perfect Dessert
- Total Time: 50
- Yield: 12 1x
Description
This heavenly banana walnut cream cake is rich, moist, and topped with a luscious cream frosting. The perfect homemade dessert for any occasion!
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups (310g) all-purpose flour – Provides structure and stability to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda – Helps the cake rise and creates a light texture.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional) – Adds warmth and depth.
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and flavor.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake perfectly.
- ½ cup (100g) brown sugar – Adds moisture and a slight caramel flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the natural sweetness.
- 1 ¼ cups (310g) mashed ripe bananas – Provides moisture and flavor.
- ½ cup (120ml) buttermilk – Ensures a tender crumb.
- ¾ cup (90g) chopped walnuts – Adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
For the Cream Frosting:
- 8 oz (225g) cream cheese, softened – Creates a smooth and tangy frosting.
- ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened – Makes the frosting creamy and rich.
- 3 cups (360g) powdered sugar – Sweetens the frosting while keeping it light.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Adds a hint of warmth and enhances the sweetness.
- ¼ cup (60g) chopped walnuts (for garnish, optional) – Provides a decorative and flavorful topping.
Instructions
- Preheat the oven – Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease two 9-inch round cake pans or a bundt pan.
- Prepare the dry ingredients – In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
- Mix the wet ingredients – In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
- Combine the ingredients – Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk. Stir gently until just combined. Fold in the chopped walnuts.
- Bake the cake – Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool completely – Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Allow the cakes to cool completely before frosting.
- Prepare the frosting – In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract, mixing until fluffy.
- Assemble the cake – Spread a layer of frosting over one cake layer, then place the second layer on top. Cover the entire cake with the remaining frosting and sprinkle chopped walnuts on top.
- Serve and enjoy – Slice the cake and serve immediately, or chill for a firmer texture.
Notes
- For a healthier version, replace half of the butter with applesauce and use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.
- If you prefer a lighter frosting, reduce the powdered sugar or use a Greek yogurt-based alternative.
- To enhance the banana flavor, use very ripe bananas with brown spots for natural sweetness.
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: DESSERT
- Cuisine: AMERICAN
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 12
- Calories: 400