is easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for using up ripe bananas. You’ll love each slice of moist, tender cake topped with rich, homemade brown butter icing that adds a deep, nutty sweetness to every bite. This cake is soft, fluffy, and beautifully balanced — making it perfect for family gatherings, afternoon coffee, or a simple homemade dessert everyone will enjoy.
The combination of sweet mashed bananas and the warm, caramel-like flavor of browned butter makes this cake absolutely irresistible!
Ingredients
For the Banana Cake:
2 to 3 ripe bananas, mashed
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup brown sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
½ cup sour cream or plain yogurt
For the Brown Butter Icing:
½ cup unsalted butter
2 cups powdered sugar
2–3 tablespoons milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and lightly flour a 9×13-inch baking pan.
In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract.
Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream until smooth.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and mix until just combined (do not overmix).
Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly.
Bake for 30–35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool completely before icing.
2️⃣ Make the Brown Butter Icing:
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Continue cooking until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma (about 3–5 minutes). Stir constantly to prevent burning.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Whisk in powdered sugar, vanilla, and milk until smooth and spreadable. Add more milk if needed for desired consistency.
Spread the icing over the cooled cake.
Serving Suggestion
Slice and serve with a cup of coffee or tea. For extra indulgence, sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top, or serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.