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–+ servings
Banana Cake
Banana cake is a classic American dessert that became especially popular in the mid-20th century as home cooks looked for ways to use overripe bananas. Unlike banana bread, this version leans more toward a soft, tender cake texture thanks to ingredients like sour cream and butter, which add richness and moisture. The inclusion of mashed bananas gives it natural sweetness and a subtle fruit flavor that pairs beautifully with vanilla. This particular vintage-style recipe reflects a time when simple pantry staples created deeply satisfying desserts. Its balance of sweetness and softness makes it a reliable favorite for gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy homemade treat.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Course Dessert
Cuisine American
Servings 10
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 ½ cups sugar
  • ½ cup butter (softened)
  • 2 eggs
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ½ tsp baking powder
  • 2 bananas (mashed)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract (assumed from “vanilla”)
  • 2 cups all-purpose flour

Instructions
 

Step 1: Preheat Oven

  • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  • Grease and flour a cake pan.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar

  • In a mixing bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

Step 3: Add Eggs

  • Add eggs one at a time.
  • Beat well after each addition.

Step 4: Mix Wet Ingredients

  • Stir in sour cream.
  • Add mashed bananas and vanilla extract.

Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients

  • In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and baking powder.

Step 6: Combine Mixtures

  • Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet mixture.
  • Mix until just combined.

Step 7: Transfer Batter

  • Pour batter evenly into the prepared pan.

Step 8: Bake

  • Bake for 35–40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Step 9: Cool and Serve

  • Allow cake to cool before slicing.
  • Serve plain or with frosting if desired.

Tips

  • Add chopped walnuts or pecans for texture
  • Frost with cream cheese frosting for a richer dessert
  • Substitute Greek yogurt for sour cream
  • Add a pinch of cinnamon for warmth
  • Use overripe bananas for best flavor
  • Turn into cupcakes by adjusting bake time
  • Add chocolate chips for a sweeter twist
  • Dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish

Nutrition

Calories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 4gFat: 14gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gTrans Fat: 0.3gCholesterol: 65mgSodium: 180mgPotassium: 150mgFiber: 1.5gSugar: 28gVitamin A: 350IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 1.2mg
Keyword banana cake, classic recipe, comfort food, homemade dessert, moist cake, sour cream cake, vintage baking