Baaaa-na-na-na Cake with Orange Zest and Cream Cheese Icing

Listen up Ladies and Gents, finally…..an EA-SY banana cake recipe that takes no thought or time. I have been searching everywhere for a fun and simple banana cake recipe that has that little extra, “je ne sais quoi?” That perfect moist and rich tasting cake, without the extra effort. I believe I have found it. Before I jump into the amazing-ness of this cake, let me take the time to remind you of how essential it is to have a simple treat like this on hand. No occasion is beyond this delightful treat, and you are sure to be an instant hit with your guests. Yes, I baked this all by myself, you all are worth the work! (gush, gush, and why not?)

This banana creation looks absolutely stunning dressed in a silky smooth icing, only to reveal a spicy orange zest enrobed in melting chocolate chips. I cannot fail to mention the health benefits of this petit gateau. Bananas are extremely beneficial to our wellbeing: mood enhancers, great source of energy, high in potassium, and have been proven to keep you…regular. Now, there is no reason not to attempt this recipe at least once! Serve up a slice with a farine smudged smile and the ease of difficulty will stay just between us ;)

Xo Dom Appetit!

PS. I deviated from the formula and added chocolate chips, which I strongly suggest.

Baaaa-na-na-na Cake with Orange Zest and Cream Cheese Icing

Adapted From: (MilkandMode)

Prep Time: 20 mins

Cook Time: 30 mins

Tools Needed: hand mixer, measuring cups and spoons, medium mixing bowl, large mixing bowl, rubber spatula, 10-1 inch springform pan (or 9-2 inch round pan),

Ingredients:
3 mashed ripe bananas
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed
1/2 cup canola oil
2 extra-large eggs (room temperature)
1/2 cup sour cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Zest of 1 orange (grated)
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup of chocolate chips

                                
Directions:

1)      Preheat oven 350 F. Grease pan

2)      Using hand mixer on low speed, mix bananas and sugars in large size bowl. Add oil, eggs, sour cream, vanilla and orange zest, mixing until smooth

3)      In medium size bowl stir together flour, baking soda, and salt. Add dry ingredients to banana mixture, continuing to mix with speed on low until just combined. Fold in chocolate chips

4)      Pour into pan and bake for 30-35 mins. Checking with toothpick if cooked (comes out moist but not goey). Let cool, removing spring and put on wire rack until completely cooled. Time for icing…

Cream Cheese Icing

Prep Time: 10 mins

Tools Needed: hand mixer, medium mixing bowl, measuring cup and spoons

Ingredients:

6 ounces of cream cheese (room temperature)

6 tablespoons of butter (room temperature)

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

2 ½ cups of icing sugar (confectioner’s sugar)

Directions:

1)      Mix cream cheese, butter, and vanilla in medium bowl with mixer on low speed. Add sugar. Do not whip, just mix until combined. Spread on cake and ENJOY!!!