Carrot Banana Cake Recipe – Moist, Naturally Sweet & Full of Flavor
This Carrot Banana Cake is one of those simple carrot cake ideas that turns everyday ingredients into something truly special. Soft like a banana cake recipe moist and comforting like your favorite carrot cake desserts, it’s the perfect homemade treat to share with family.
This cake brings together the best of both worlds. The carrots add texture and warmth, while the bananas make it extra soft and tender.
It’s one of those carrot cake desserts that feels cozy, comforting, and just sweet enough. Honestly, if you love a banana cake recipe moist and fluffy, you’re going to adore this twist.
It’s simple, unfussy, and perfect for anyone who enjoys experimenting with carrot cake ideas beyond the traditional version.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultra soft texture thanks to ripe bananas
- Naturally sweet and perfectly spiced
- A creative twist on the best carrot cake recipe moist lovers enjoy
- Great way to use overripe bananas (perfect for ripe banana recipes)
- Works as cake, banana loaf, or even carrot banana bread recipe style
Carrot Banana Cake Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- ¾ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas about 3 bananas
- 1 ½ cups freshly grated carrots
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans optional
- For the frosting optional:
- 8 oz cream cheese softened
- ½ cup unsalted butter softened
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a 9×13-inch baking pan or two loaf pans if you prefer a banana loaf style.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and oil until combined. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in mashed bananas and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Gently stir in grated carrots and nuts if using. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and smooth the top evenly.
- Bake for 35–45 minutes (less for loaf pans, more for larger pan), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before frosting.
- To make the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla, mixing until fluffy. Spread evenly over the cooled cake.
- Slice and serve as a delicious banana dessert that feels both classic and new.
Nabeela’s Pro Tips
- Use very ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Grate carrots finely for a smoother texture in every bite.
- Let the cake rest for a few hours before slicing — it becomes even more moist.
- Add a handful of raisins for a banana carrot bread recipe variation.
- If skipping frosting, lightly dust with powdered sugar for a simple finish.
FAQ
Can I turn this into a carrot banana bread recipe instead of cake?
Yes! Bake the batter in loaf pans to create a delicious carrot banana bread recipe or banana carrot bread recipe version.
Is this similar to a banana loaf?
Yes, the texture is soft and moist like a banana loaf, but with added warmth from carrots and spices.
Can I freeze this cake?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving.
Do I need frosting?
Not necessarily. It’s moist enough to enjoy plain, but cream cheese frosting adds a classic carrot cake recipe homemade touch.
Can I make it healthier?
You can substitute half the flour with whole wheat flour and slightly reduce the sugar if desired.
