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    Home » Recipes » Cakes

    May 13, 2021 Cakes

    Banana Spice Cake With Walnuts

    Banana Spice Cake With Walnuts

    Enjoy the delicious flavor of banana bread in a new way with this incredibly moist banana spice cake with walnuts and cream cheese frosting.

    Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

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    banana-spice-cake-with-walnuts.

    You might also like Pumpkin Bars With Cream Cheese Frosting, Frosted Brownies, and Coconut Carrot Cake.

    Easy Peasy Banana Cake

    This banana spice cake with walnuts is perfect for banana dessert lovers who want to kick it up a notch and go beyond just the classic banana bread. Our easy peasy banana cake recipe can be whipped up in under an hour!

    The cake is super moist with a hint of spice and just the right amount of sweetness. The warm rich flavor of the spices plus the sweet banana flavor is the perfect combination. Topping it with a thick layer of homemade cream cheese frosting and chopped walnuts is really what makes it so irresistible.

    The best thing about this sheet cake is that you can bake, frost, and serve it right from the pan. Not only will this save you lots of time and energy, but it makes this banana spice cake the perfect go-to dessert for any party or get-together. Not to mention, it’s absolutely delicious.

    banana-cake-with-cream-cheese-frosting.

    This post contains affiliate links. See full disclosure here.

    Banana Cake vs Banana Bread

    A lot of people wonder if there really is a difference between banana cake and banana bread. Well, I’m here to tell you that there most definitely is a difference – it's more than just the cream cheese frosting!

    Although banana cake and banana bread have many of the same basic ingredients, the biggest difference between the two is their texture. However, they generally also differ in their level of sweetness. Banana cake is much lighter and sweeter and is often topped with frosting while banana bread is more dense and thick and usually less sweet.

    Additionally, banana bread is made in a loaf pan and banana cake is usually made in a cake or sheet pan. For example, our banana spice cake with walnuts is made in a half-sheet pan. 

    banana-spice-cake-in-sheet-pan.

    Recipe Tips and Tricks

    Follow these pro baking tips to get the best banana spice cake every time.

    • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure they are fully incorporated and evenly mixed into the batter.
    • Mash the bananas using a stand mixer or hand mixer for quick and easy mashing.
    • Freezing bananas is a great option if you want to make the cake later! (Yes, they will probably turn black in the freezer. And yes, it’s fine. I promise!)
    • Prevent overmixing by mixing the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can create a dense, tough texture.
    • Let the cake cool to room temperature before frosting to keep the frosting from melting.

    Ingredients

    Each of these key ingredients contributes to the perfect flavor and texture of this banana spice cake.

    For the spice cake

    • Ripe bananas: The riper the better! The best bananas for this recipe are the ones that have turned totally brown because they have so much flavor – they are also the easiest to mash. 
    • Pure vanilla extract: Vanilla adds another layer of flavor to the cake and compliments the sweet banana flavor.
    • Eggs: Room-temperature eggs are an important ingredient that helps provide structure to the cake and bind all of the ingredients together.
    • Flour: We love this banana spice cake with whole-wheat or all-purpose flour. Flour also provides structure and assists with leavening in baked goods.
    • Baking soda/baking powder: Both baking soda and baking powder are leavening agents that make the cake rise, giving it a light and fluffy texture.
    • Cinnamon/allspice/nutmeg/cloves: These spices provide additional warm, rich flavors to the cake, enhancing the overall taste.
    • Salt: Salt provides additional flavor and brings out the sweetness from the sugar.
    • Granulated sugar: Sugar is the main source of sweetness in this recipe but it also keeps the cake soft and moist.
    • Oil: Not only does the oil keep your cake extra moist, but it also traps in air to give it a soft and fluffy texture.
    • Milk: Milk adds moisture to the cake as well as contributes to the color and flavor.

    For the Frosting

    • Cream cheese: Cream cheese adds the perfect amount of creaminess and tang that pairs well with this banana spice cake.
    • Butter: We like to use salted butter here but unsalted also works too. Just add a dash of salt to balance out the sweetness if you use unsalted butter.
    • Pure vanilla extract: Vanilla extract adds another layer of flavor to the cream cheese frosting.
    • Powdered sugar: Powdered sugar adds sweetness to the frosting and balances out the flavor of the cream cheese. Sift the powdered sugar to avoid any lumps in the frosting.
    • Chopped walnuts: Chopped walnuts add a nutty crunch to this sheet cake. Chopped pecans are also a delicious option. You can omit the nuts if desired.
    • Evaporated milk: Evaporated milk creates a super smooth, rich, and creamy frosting. You can substitute it with regular milk or heavy cream if desired.
    banana-spice-cake-ingredients.

    How To Make This Recipe

    Start by preparing the ingredients. Make sure all of the ingredients are at room temperature. This allows the ingredients to bind together more easily and contributes to a light and fluffy cake texture.

    In a large mixing bowl – I like to use my KitchenAid mixer and paddle attachment – mix the bananas until they are fully mashed. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and the eggs.

    In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, sugar, and spices. Add it to the banana mixture and mix until fully combined. Next, add the canola oil and milk. Mix just until fully combined.

    cake-ingredients-in-bowl.
    cake-dry-ingredients.

    Finally, pour the batter into greased 18” x 13” sheet pan (I recommend Nordic Ware Baker’s Half Sheet) and bake at 350°F for 25 minutes. Let the cake cool to room temperature.

    Prepare the cream cheese frosting by adding the cream cheese, butter, and vanilla extract to a medium mixing bowl. Cream together for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.

    Add the sifted powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture one cup at a time, mixing between each addition until it is fully incorporated. Add the evaporated milk as needed until the frosting is smooth and creamy.

    Spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top of the cooled banana spice cake and top with chopped walnuts (if desired). Cut into 3” x 3” squares and serve.

    banana-cake-in-sheet-pan.
    frosting-banana-cake.

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    Recipe FAQ’s

    Why is my banana cake dry?

    The most common reasons why your banana cake may be dry are because the batter was overmixed or the cake was overcooked. Another reason may be that too much flour was added. Be sure to fluff the flour before measuring. Spoon the flour into the measuring cup to avoid packing down the flour while scooping.

    How long does homemade banana cake last?

    This sheet cake can last for up to 3 days stored in an airtight container at room temperature or up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

    Can I freeze my leftover banana cake?

    Yes! You can absolutely freeze your leftover banana cake. Be sure to store in an airtight container to keep the cake from drying out. Thaw completely before serving.

    What is the best oil to use in this cake?

    The best oil to use in this recipe is canola oil because it does not have a distinct flavor. Vegetable oil would also work as an alternative in this cake.

    What is a spice cake?

    This banana cake with walnuts is considered a spice cake simply because of the added flavor that comes from the spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and cloves.

    banana-spice-cake-featured.

    Banana Spice Cake With Walnuts

    May 13, 2021
    Take your banana dessert experience to the next level with this incredibly moist banana spice cake topped with homemade cream cheese frosting and walnuts.
    4.90
    Print Recipe Pin Recipe
    Prep Time 20 mins
    Cook Time 25 mins
    Total Time 45 mins
    Course Dessert, Snack
    Cuisine American
    Servings 24 servings
    Calories 330 kcal

    Equipment

    • Mixer
    • Sifter
    • Half Sheet Pan 18x13 inch

    Ingredients
      

    FOR THE CAKE

    • 4 ripe medium bananas
    • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    • 2 eggs
    • 2½ cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • 1 teaspoon baking powder
    • 2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
    • 1 teaspoon ground allspice
    • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
    • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
    • 1 teaspoon salt
    • 1½ cups granulated sugar
    • ½ cup canola oil
    • ¼ cup milk

    FOR THE FROSTING

    • 8 oz cream cheese softened
    • ½ cup butter softened
    • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
    • 4 cups powdered sugar sifted
    • 2-3 tablespoon evaporated milk
    • 1 cup chopped walnuts for topping (optional)

    Instructions
     

    FOR THE CAKE

    • Preheat the over to 350°F and grease an 18×13 inch sheet pan. (I recommend Nordic Ware Baker’s Half Sheet).
    • Mash the bananas in a large mixing bowl. (I like to use my KitchenAid mixer and paddle attachment for this). Mix in the vanilla and eggs.
    • In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, sugar, and spices. Mix into the banana mixture. Add the oil and milk and mix until fully combined.
    • Pour batter into greased sheet pan and bake for 25 minutes. Let cool before frosting.

    FOR THE FROSTING

    • Cream together the butter, cream cheese, and vanilla using a handheld or stand mixer fitted with a paddle or whisk attachment. Mix in the powdered sugar 1 cup at a time until fully combined. Add the evaporated milk as needed for desired consistency.

    PUTTING IT TOGETHER

    • Once the banana cake is cooled completely, spread the cream cheese frosting evenly across the top. If desired, sprinkle with chopped walnuts.
    • Cut into 3×3 inch squares to yield 24 servings.

    Video

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/CcGUbLwg21U/

    Notes

    • I recommend using a half-sheet pan (18"x13") for this recipe. Bake time may vary if a different size pan is used.
    • Store well-covered at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
    Keyword banana cake, banana cake recipe with oil, banana cake with cream cheese frosting, banana cake with walnuts, banana spice cake, cream cheese frosting, easy peasy banana cake, walnut banana cake

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Kristina says

      September 28, 2022 at 2:02 am

      5 stars
      This sheet cake was amazing!! It was super soft and light which was a great balance with the cream cheese frosting. It's great for feeding a crowd. I will definitely make this again!

      Reply
    2. Rupa says

      September 26, 2022 at 3:23 pm

      3 stars
      Mine turned out a little more bread like then expected, I wonder if I over baked it? I made it in a 10 x 15 inch pan and probably would’ve struggled having enough batter for anything bigger. I baked for 23-24 mins but should’ve checked at 20. Not as dense as banana bread but not as fluffy and light as cake. The recipe doesn’t tell you when to add the spices in either. Tastes fine but maybe will be better the next day.

      Reply
      • thecurlyspoon says

        September 28, 2022 at 1:52 am

        Hi Rupa,
        Thanks so much for your feedback. We do recommend using a half sheet (18"x13") pan for this sheet cake. Using a different size pan may require a different bake time and can alter the final outcome of the recipe.

        Reply
    3. nancy says

      September 13, 2022 at 3:38 pm

      5 stars
      this warm spiced Banana Spice Cake was such a delight to serve. my guests were very impressed 🙂

      Reply
    4. Rosanna says

      September 12, 2022 at 3:49 pm

      5 stars
      This was beyond delicious, I can’t wait to make it again!

      Reply
    5. Shelby says

      September 12, 2022 at 10:36 am

      5 stars
      Ohh this is like banana bread but so much more comforting for the fall!

      Reply
    6. Nancy says

      August 18, 2022 at 10:52 am

      5 stars
      We skipped the nuts and it was still super tasty and creamy banana cake

      Reply
    7. Katie says

      August 17, 2022 at 8:26 pm

      5 stars
      I love this banana spice cake it's so easy to make, and everyone was asking for the recipe!

      Reply
    8. Jess says

      August 17, 2022 at 2:32 pm

      5 stars
      Can we sub other nuts if allergic to walnuts and pecans?

      Reply
      • thecurlyspoon says

        August 17, 2022 at 5:32 pm

        Hi Jess,
        Absolutely! You can substitute the nuts or omit them if desired. I often make this cake with half nuts and half without for people who don't like nuts.

        Reply
    9. Valerie says

      June 14, 2022 at 2:47 am

      5 stars
      I could literally eat the entire pan! Love love love this banana cake.

      Reply
    10. Cathy Walker says

      September 03, 2021 at 2:11 pm

      5 stars
      This is so good. One of my favorites

      Reply
    11. Zara Poulsen says

      May 21, 2021 at 12:49 am

      5 stars
      Yum,it's my favorite cake. You can also change the white flour to whole wheat flour ( same amount). Ground whole wheat makes the taste even more delicious!

      Reply

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