Skinny Banana Cake with Maple Frosting
Indulging in dessert doesn’t have to mean sacrificing your health goals, and this Skinny Banana Cake with Maple Frosting is the perfect example! Moist, fluffy, and surprisingly light, this cake is a delightful way to enjoy the sweet, rich flavor of ripe bananas while keeping things on the lighter side. Topped with a luscious maple frosting, it’s an irresistible treat that’s sure to satisfy your cravings without the guilt. Let’s dive into why you need to make this cake today!
Reasons to Love Skinny Banana Cake with Maple Frosting
There are countless reasons to fall head over heels for this cake. Here are just a few:
- Healthier Ingredients: This cake uses Greek yogurt and cream cheese to keep it moist while reducing the fat content.
- Natural Sweetness: Ripe bananas and pure maple syrup provide natural sweetness, making it a great option for those looking to cut back on refined sugar.
- Easy to Make: The recipe is straightforward, requiring just a few simple steps to create a delicious cake.
- Versatile Topping: The maple frosting adds a touch of elegance, but you can also enjoy the cake plain or with fresh fruit.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a birthday, brunch, or just a cozy evening at home, this cake fits right in.
What You’ll Gather
Before you start, make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
- 4 ounces cream cheese, softened and cut into small chunks
- 1 6 oz container plain, non-fat Greek yogurt
- 1 1/2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans, toasted if preferred
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup honey or agave syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup whole wheat flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 large eggs
Cook’s Kit
To whip up this delightful cake, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools:
- Mixing Bowls: A set of various sizes will help you combine your ingredients efficiently.
- Electric Mixer: This will make mixing the frosting a breeze, ensuring it’s smooth and creamy.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to baking success.
- Rubber Spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of your mixing bowl and folding in ingredients.
- 9-inch Round Cake Pans: These will give your cake its beautiful shape.
How to Prepare Skinny Banana Cake with Maple Frosting
Follow these simple steps to create your Skinny Banana Cake with Maple Frosting.
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release.
Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, honey (or agave), eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cake’s texture.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
Step 6: Prepare the Maple Frosting
In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and cinnamon, mixing until well blended.
Step 7: Frost the Cake
Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of maple frosting on top, then gently place the second layer on top. Finish by frosting the top and sides of the cake. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for a delightful crunch.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to experiment with the ingredients to suit the season or your taste preferences:
- Fall: Add a pinch of nutmeg and some chopped apples for a cozy autumn twist.
- Spring: Incorporate fresh berries into the batter for a burst of color and flavor.
- Summer: Substitute some of the bananas with ripe peaches or nectarines for a fruity delight.
- Winter: Enhance the frosting with a hint of ginger for a warming spice.
Watch Outs & How to Fix
Baking can sometimes lead to unexpected challenges. Here are a few common issues and how to fix them:
- Cake is Too Dense: This could be due to overmixing the batter. Next time, mix just until combined.
- Frosting is Runny: If your frosting is too thin, try adding a bit more cream cheese or chilling it in the refrigerator for a short time.
- Burnt Edges: If your cake is browning too quickly, cover the edges with aluminum foil.
- Not Rising Properly: Ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to flat cakes.
Storing Tips & Timelines
To keep your Skinny Banana Cake with Maple Frosting fresh and delicious, consider the following tips:
- Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerator: If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week.
- Freezing: You can freeze the cake without frosting for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and frost before serving.
Skinny Banana Cake with Maple Frosting FAQs
Can I use regular yogurt instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, you can use regular yogurt, but Greek yogurt provides a creamier texture and is lower in sugar.
How ripe should the bananas be for the best flavor?
The riper the bananas, the better! Look for bananas that are heavily speckled with brown for maximum sweetness.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole wheat flour with a gluten-free flour blend, and make sure it contains a binding agent like xanthan gum.
What can I use instead of cream cheese for the frosting?
If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, try using vegan cream cheese or a whipped coconut cream for a lighter, dairy-free frosting.
Save & Share
If you enjoyed this Skinny Banana Cake with Maple Frosting, share it with your friends and family! They’ll appreciate the healthier alternative that still delivers on flavor and satisfaction. Snap a photo of your creation and tag us on social media to show off your baking skills!
The perfect blend of moist banana cake and creamy maple frosting, this dessert is not just for special occasions but can be an everyday delight. Enjoy the process of baking and the joy that comes from sharing delicious food with loved ones. Your culinary journey is just beginning, and with this recipe, you’re sure to impress everyone at your table!
Skinny Banana Cake with Maple Frosting
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour your 9-inch round cake pans to ensure easy release.
- Step 2: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas, Greek yogurt, honey (or agave), eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated and smooth.
- Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Step 4: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can affect the cake’s texture.
- Step 5: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.
- Step 6: In a mixing bowl, beat the softened cream cheese until smooth and creamy. Add the Greek yogurt, maple syrup, and cinnamon, mixing until well blended.
- Step 7: Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of maple frosting on top, then gently place the second layer on top. Finish by frosting the top and sides of the cake. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top for a delightful crunch.
Notes
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
- Refrigerate for longer storage, up to a week.
- You can freeze the cake without frosting for up to 3 months.
