Banana Nut Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup chopped walnuts (plus extra for topping)

For the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1-2 tbsp milk (optional, for desired consistency)

For Topping:

• 2 bananas, sliced
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• Caramel sauce (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or one 9×13 inch pan.
2. Prepare the batter:
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt.
   • In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
   • Mix in the sour cream, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until smooth.
   • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Stir in the chopped walnuts.
3. Bake the cake:
   • Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan(s). Bake for 25-30 minutes (for round pans) or 35-40 minutes (for 9×13 pan), or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
   • Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the frosting:
   • In a large bowl, beat the cream cheese and butter together until smooth and creamy. Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until fully incorporated. Mix in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add milk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.
5. Assemble the cake:
   • If you made two round cakes, place one layer on a serving plate and spread a thick layer of cream cheese frosting on top. Place the second layer on top and frost the entire cake with the remaining frosting.
   • If you made a 9×13 cake, simply frost the top of the cake with the cream cheese frosting.
6. Add toppings:
   • Arrange the sliced bananas on top of the cake and sprinkle with chopped walnuts. Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.
7. Serve:
   • Slice and serve the cake immediately, or refrigerate until ready to serve. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Notes:

• Banana Tips: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be.
• Frosting Variations: You can add a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg to the frosting for an extra layer of flavor.

This Banana Nut Cake is a rich and moist dessert that pairs perfectly with the creamy tang of cream cheese frosting, and the crunchy walnuts add a delightful texture. Enjoy!