Gluten Free Classic Banana Cake

Total time2 hr

Prep time25 min

Cook time35 min

Ripe mashed banana brings natural sweetness and deep flavor to this layered cake, while brown sugar and a touch of cinnamon add warmth to every bite. Buttermilk and sour cream keep the crumb impossibly moist and tender, and the batter comes together in the classic creaming method for a soft, fine texture that holds up beautifully between layers. Once cooled, the cake gets swept in a rich cream cheese frosting, beaten until light and fluffy, then spread thick over the top and sides for that bakery-style finish. It's an easy make-ahead layer cake that slices clean and tastes even better the next day, making it a great choice for a gluten free dessert table. Simple pantry staples and a straightforward mixing method make this one approachable for bakers of any skill level.

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Ingredients

12 servings

For the cake

2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
King Arthur Baking Company Gluten-Free Measure For Measure Flour Bob’s Red Mill 1 to 1 Baking Flour Pillsbury Best Gluten Free All Purpose Flour Blend - 24 Oz Bob's Red Mill Baking Flour, 1 to 1, Gluten Free King Arthur Gluten Free Measure for Measure Flour
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Chef's tip
Choose a gluten-free baking blend labeled 1:1 or cup-for-cup and use the same amount. Almond and coconut flour won't work the same way.
1 ½ tsp baking soda
½ tsp fine salt
½ tsp ground cinnamon
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
1 cup packed light brown sugar
½ cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 ½ cups mashed very ripe banana (about 3 large bananas)
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
¾ cup buttermilk, room temperature
¼ cup sour cream, room temperature

For the frosting

8 oz cream cheese, softened
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
3 cups powdered sugar, sifted
1 tsp pure vanilla extract
1 pinch fine salt
1–2 tbsp heavy cream, as needed

Instructions

1
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease two 9-inch round cake pans, line the bottoms with parchment paper, and grease the parchment.
2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon until evenly combined. Set aside.

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