Name: Banana Cake with Nutella Frosting Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 3 cups well mashed bananas (about 6 medium bananas); 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 cup light brown sugar, lightly packed; 1 cup vegetable oil; 4 large eggs, room temperature; 1 cup sour cream; 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract; 2 tsp baking soda; 1 tsp salt; 4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 cups ground hazelnuts or hazelnut meal; 8 Tbsp unsalted butter, room temperature; 13 oz jar of Nutella; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 3 cups confectioner’s sugar; 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder; 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 6 reviews

If you are a fan of rich, comforting desserts that bring joy with every bite, then this Banana Cake with Nutella Frosting Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. Imagine a moist, tender banana cake bursting with natural sweetness and a delightful nutty crunch from ground hazelnuts, all generously crowned with a luscious, creamy Nutella frosting that perfectly balances sweet and chocolatey goodness. This recipe brings together simple, everyday ingredients to create a show-stopping dessert that’s both nostalgic and irresistibly indulgent. You’ll love how easy it is to make and even easier to devour!

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view of smooth, creamy chocolate frosting spread evenly in a round white bowl. The frosting has a rich brown color with soft, glossy swirls and curved ridges that show the smooth texture. The edges are gently swirled to create a natural, inviting look. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, enhancing the warm tones of the chocolate frosting. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient in this Banana Cake with Nutella Frosting Recipe is carefully chosen to create that perfect harmony of texture, flavor, and color. From the ripe bananas adding natural sweetness and moisture, to the ground hazelnuts giving a subtle crunch and depth of flavor, every element has a vital role.

3 cups well mashed bananas: About 6 medium bananas, perfectly ripe for natural sweetness and moisture.
1 cup granulated sugar: Adds a crisp sweetness to balance the bananas.
1 cup light brown sugar: Lightly packed for a subtle molasses flavor and extra moisture.
1 cup vegetable oil: Keeps the cake tender and wonderfully moist.
4 large eggs at room temperature: Provide structure and richness.
1 cup sour cream: Adds tanginess and helps keep the cake super moist.
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract: A warming flavor enhancer for the cake batter.
2 tsp baking soda: The leavening agent that ensures your cake rises beautifully.
1 tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the flavors.
4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that holds everything together.
2 cups ground hazelnuts or hazelnut meal: Adds texture and the undeniable nutty flavor that pairs amazingly with bananas.
Nutella buttercream frosting ingredients: 8 Tbsp unsalted butter (room temperature), 13 oz jar of Nutella, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 3 cups confectioner’s sugar, 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder, and 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk for silkiness.

How to Make Banana Cake with Nutella Frosting Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pans and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350F, which is the sweet spot for baking this cake evenly. Lightly spray two 9-inch nonstick cake pans, then line the bottoms with parchment paper circles. This little step ensures your masterpiece won’t stick and will come out beautifully intact.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, and light brown sugar until smooth. This brings out the natural sweetness and creates a rich base. Next, add the oil, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is well combined. Don’t forget to scrape down the sides of your bowl to make sure nothing is left behind!

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold in Hazelnuts

Turning your mixer to low, gradually add the baking soda, salt, and flour one cup at a time. This careful integration keeps the batter light and airy. Once the flour is fully incorporated, gently fold in the ground hazelnuts. This is what gives your banana cake that wonderful nutty surprise in every bite.

Step 4: Bake the Cake

Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops. Bake for approximately 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out moist but without raw batter clinging to it. The timing ensures the cake is perfectly moist but fully cooked through.

Step 5: Cool Before Frosting

Allow your banana cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before gently removing them to a wire rack to cool completely. Patience here is key because frosting a warm cake can melt your beautiful Nutella frosting.

Step 6: Make the Nutella Frosting

While the cake cools, whip together the butter, Nutella, sour cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Gradually beat in the confectioner’s sugar and cocoa powder to achieve a luscious, glossy texture. Add the heavy cream or milk a little at a time to get that perfect spreadable consistency. Using a food processor here can make frosting preparation a breeze and yield silky results.

Step 7: Frost and Enjoy

Once the cakes are fully cooled, spread the Nutella frosting generously between the layers and on top. This frosting is so rich and smooth that every bite feels like a celebration. Now, slice and serve your stunning banana cake with Nutella frosting!

How to Serve Banana Cake with Nutella Frosting Recipe

A slice of two-layer cake with light brown textured sponge layers and a smooth, thick dark chocolate frosting covering the top and sides, showing soft swirls on the outside. The cake slice rests on crumpled light brown parchment paper, accompanied by a silver fork on the right. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate your presentation, consider sprinkling some chopped hazelnuts or toasted banana chips on top of the frosting. Fresh banana slices or a dusting of cocoa powder can also add a lovely finishing touch that hints at the flavors inside the cake.

Side Dishes

Pair this sumptuous cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to complement the rich Nutella frosting. A hot cup of coffee or a creamy latte makes an excellent companion, perfectly balancing the cake’s sweetness.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve individual slices on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of chocolate sauce or Nutella swirls. Alternatively, create mini banana and Nutella trifles using cake crumbs, frosting, and fresh bananas layered in glasses for a fun twist on this classic recipe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep your Banana Cake with Nutella Frosting Recipe fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for up to five days. Refrigeration will keep the frosting stable but allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then bring to room temperature before frosting. If you want to freeze the fully frosted cake, do so in a sturdy, covered container to prevent freezer burn, but note the texture of the frosting may slightly change.

Reheating

If you’re serving chilled cake, there’s no need to reheat. For a slightly warm slice experience, gently microwave a slice for about 10-15 seconds. This brings out the banana’s natural sweetness and softens the frosting delightfully without melting it completely.

FAQs

Can I use all-purpose flour or should I try another type?

All-purpose flour works perfectly in this Banana Cake with Nutella Frosting Recipe because it provides the right structure and tenderness. Using cake flour might make it too soft, while whole wheat flour could change the delicate texture and flavor.

Is it okay to substitute Nutella with another chocolate spread?

You absolutely can! While Nutella has that signature hazelnut-chocolate flavor that elevates this cake, other chocolate-hazelnut spreads will work, though the flavor may vary slightly. Avoid plain chocolate spreads without nuts for the most authentic taste.

How ripe should the bananas be?

The bananas should be very ripe – think brown spots and a strong aroma. This ripeness ensures maximum sweetness and moistness in the cake, which is essential for the best results in the Banana Cake with Nutella Frosting Recipe.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Yes, with some adjustments! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that works for baking. Also, double-check your baking soda and other ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free for a safe and delicious alternative.

Will the cake keep its moisture the next day?

This cake stays moist and tender for several days thanks to the bananas, sour cream, and oil. Storing it covered or in an airtight container helps maintain its freshness and flavor, making it just as delightful the next day.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Cake with Nutella Frosting Recipe is a wonderfully heartwarming dessert that never fails to bring smiles, whether for family gatherings, birthdays, or simply because you deserve a sweet treat. The blend of moist banana cake layered with creamy, nutty Nutella frosting is a combination that feels both indulgent and comforting. I cannot recommend this recipe enough – give it a try and let yourself savor every luscious bite!