Frosted Chocolate Banana Cake

Name: Frosted Chocolate Banana Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1 tsp baking soda; ½ tsp baking powder; ¼ tsp salt; 2 large ripe bananas, mashed; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1 cup buttermilk; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 3 cups powdered sugar; 1/3 cup milk; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Homemade Sweets Recipes

Frosted Chocolate Banana Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the rich flavors of chocolate with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas, creating a moist and luscious cake that's perfect for any occasion.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2026-01-03T14:54:30.636Z

Indulge in the sweet and rich flavors of this Frosted Chocolate Banana Cake. This cake is perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or simply as a sweet treat after dinner. The combination of chocolate and banana creates a decadent dessert that will satisfy any sweet tooth.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich chocolate flavor paired with fresh banana sweetness
Moist and fluffy texture that melts in your mouth
Perfect for celebrations or as a sweet indulgence

      

The Perfect Balance of Flavors

Frosted Chocolate Banana Cake is a wonderful fusion of flavors that elevates traditional chocolate cake to new heights. The ripe bananas add a natural sweetness that complements the rich, dark cocoa, creating a unique taste experience. Each bite is a delightful combination of moist, fluffy cake and creamy frosting, making it irresistible for chocolate lovers and banana enthusiasts alike.

This cake not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a comforting familiarity to the table. Ripe bananas lend their distinct flavor and texture, ensuring that the cake remains moist long after it’s baked. This harmonious blend of chocolate and banana makes it a standout dessert for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special gathering.

Baking Tips for Success

To achieve the perfect texture in your Frosted Chocolate Banana Cake, it's essential to use ripe bananas. Look for bananas with brown spots; they are sweeter and will add the best flavor to your cake. Additionally, ensure that all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This step helps create a smooth batter and contributes to a light, fluffy cake.

When baking your cake, keep an eye on the time. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the recommended baking time. Insert a toothpick into the center of the cakes; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your cakes are ready. This attention to detail will help you achieve a beautifully baked cake every time.

Serving and Storing

Once your Frosted Chocolate Banana Cake is complete, it’s time to serve this delightful creation! Slice it up and enjoy it as a stand-alone dessert or pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat. The cake’s rich flavors complement a variety of beverages, from coffee to milk, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

If you have leftovers (which is rare!), store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for a longer shelf life. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving again; this will enhance its flavor and texture, ensuring that every bite remains as delicious as the first.

Ingredients

For the Cake

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tsp baking soda
½ tsp baking powder
¼ tsp salt
2 large ripe bananas, mashed
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup buttermilk

For the Frosting

1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
3 cups powdered sugar
1/3 cup milk
1 tsp vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients thoroughly before baking.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.

In another bowl, combine the mashed bananas, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Make the Frosting

In a medium bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy. Gradually add the cocoa powder and powdered sugar, alternating with milk, until you reach your desired consistency. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Frost the Cake

Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top, then place the second layer on top. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting.

Enjoy your delicious Frosted Chocolate Banana Cake!

Variations to Try

While the classic version of Frosted Chocolate Banana Cake is undeniably delicious, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter for added texture and flavor. Walnuts or pecans make a great addition, providing a delightful crunch amidst the soft cake.

For a twist on the frosting, try incorporating peanut butter or cream cheese for a unique flavor profile. Swirling in some caramel or adding a layer of ganache can take this cake to the next level, making it an even more decadent dessert that everyone will love.

Perfect Pairings

Frosted Chocolate Banana Cake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate this dessert, adding richness and creaminess that perfectly balance the cake's flavors. For a refreshing contrast, serve it alongside fresh berries or a fruit salad.

Beverages can also enhance your enjoyment of this cake. A rich cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk complements the chocolate beautifully, while herbal teas can provide a lighter pairing. Experiment with different combinations to find your favorite way to enjoy this scrumptious treat!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use ripe bananas?

Yes, ripe bananas work best as they are sweeter and more flavorful.

→ How should I store the cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can I freeze the cake?

Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 3 months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before frosting.

→ What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a buttermilk substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.