Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake (Moist, Creamy & Irresistible)
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels comforting, nostalgic, and indulgent all at once, this Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake is exactly what you need. With ultra-moist banana cake layers, crunchy toasted walnuts, and luscious cream cheese frosting, this homemade banana cake is pure dessert perfection.
Every bite is soft, rich, and beautifully balanced — sweet ripe bananas bring natural flavor, walnuts add texture, and the creamy frosting ties everything together. Whether you’re baking for a birthday, holiday gathering, or simply to use up ripe bananas, this banana walnut cake recipe delivers bakery-quality results right at home.
Why You’ll Love This Banana Walnut Cream Cake
- Incredibly moist texture thanks to ripe bananas
- Crunchy walnut contrast in every bite
- Silky cream cheese frosting that’s not overly sweet
- Perfect for celebrations or everyday treats
- Easy-to-follow recipe with simple ingredients
This easy banana dessert transforms basic pantry staples into something truly special.
Ingredients
For the Banana Walnut Cake
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2–3 bananas)
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- ¾ cup chopped walnuts (toasted for best flavor)
For the Cream Cheese Frosting
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 ½ cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1–2 tablespoons heavy cream (if needed for consistency)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Oven and Pans
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line two 8-inch round cake pans with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, beat softened butter with granulated and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 2–3 minutes).
4. Add Eggs and Flavor
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. Incorporate Bananas and Sour Cream
Mix in mashed bananas and sour cream until smooth.
6. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.
7. Fold in Walnuts
Gently fold in chopped toasted walnuts.
8. Bake
Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
9. Cool Completely
Let cakes cool in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool fully before frosting.
Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare cake pans.
- Mix dry ingredients in a bowl.
- Cream butter and sugars until fluffy.
- Add eggs, vanilla, bananas, and sour cream.
- Combine dry and wet ingredients, fold in walnuts.
- Bake 25–30 minutes until done. Cool completely before frosting.
Notes
Make the Cream Cheese Frosting
- Beat cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.
- Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing on low speed.
- Add vanilla extract and beat until fluffy.
- Add heavy cream if needed to reach desired consistency.
Assemble the Cake
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread an even layer of frosting on top.
- Add the second layer and frost the top and sides.
- Garnish with chopped walnuts or banana slices if desired.
Chill for 20–30 minutes before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Tips for the Best Moist Banana Cake
Use Very Ripe Bananas
The darker and spottier, the better. Overripe bananas are sweeter and more flavorful.
Don’t Overmix
Overmixing develops gluten and makes cake dense.
Toast the Walnuts
Toasting enhances their nutty flavor and adds crunch.
Cool Completely Before Frosting
Warm cake will melt the frosting.
Delicious Variations
Add Chocolate Chips
Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips for a banana-chocolate twist.
Make It a Sheet Cake
Bake in a 9×13-inch pan for 30–35 minutes.
Add Caramel Drizzle
A light caramel drizzle over the frosting makes it extra indulgent.
Turn It Into Cupcakes
Bake in lined muffin tins for 18–20 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
This banana walnut cream cake pairs beautifully with:
- Fresh coffee
- Cold milk
- Vanilla ice cream
- Hot tea
It’s perfect for birthdays, potlucks, brunch gatherings, or cozy weekend baking.
Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
Refrigerate
Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze
Unfrosted cake layers can be wrapped tightly and frozen for up to 2 months.
Make Ahead
Bake layers a day in advance and frost the next day.
Nutritional Highlights
Bananas add:
- Natural sweetness
- Potassium
- Moisture without excess fat
Walnuts provide:
- Healthy fats
- Crunch and texture
- Rich nutty flavor
While this cake is indulgent, it also offers wholesome ingredients that elevate it beyond a basic dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use oil instead of butter?
Yes, substitute ½ cup vegetable oil for a softer texture.
Can I skip the walnuts?
Absolutely — the cake will still be moist and delicious.
Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can replace up to half the flour with whole wheat flour.
Final Thoughts
This Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake is soft, rich, and layered with comforting flavor. The moist banana crumb, crunchy walnuts, and creamy frosting create a perfect harmony of textures and taste.
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply craving a cozy homemade treat, this banana walnut cake recipe is guaranteed to impress.
One slice won’t be enough.
