Simple Banana Pudding Layer Cake

If you’re a fan of bananas and cake, then the Simple Banana Pudding Layer Cake is a must-try! This delightful dessert combines moist banana-flavored layers with creamy pudding and rich cream cheese frosting. It’s perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or just a sweet treat at home.

Why Make This Recipe

There are many reasons to make this delicious cake. First, it’s surprisingly simple, making it accessible for bakers of all skill levels. Second, it’s a crowd-pleaser, with its playful flavors and beautiful layers. Plus, the combination of banana and pudding creates a wonderful texture that will have everyone coming back for seconds!

How to Make Simple Banana Pudding Layer Cake

Ingredients

1 box yellow cake mix
Ingredients required by the cake mix box (usually eggs, oil, and water)
1 teaspoon banana extract
1 package (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix
2 cups cold milk
1/2 teaspoon banana extract
8 ounces cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
4 cups powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1-2 tablespoons milk
2-3 bananas, sliced
Caramel sauce or honey for drizzling

Directions

Prepare the cake mix according to the package instructions. Add 1 teaspoon of banana extract to the batter for extra flavor. Divide the batter evenly among two or three 8-inch round cake pans and bake as directed. Let the cakes cool completely on a wire rack.
While the cakes are baking, make the banana pudding filling. In a medium bowl, whisk together the instant vanilla pudding mix and 2 cups of cold milk until smooth. Stir in 1/2 teaspoon of banana extract. Let the pudding set in the refrigerator for at least 5 minutes.
To make the cream cheese frosting, beat the softened cream cheese and butter together in a large bowl until light and fluffy. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Stir in the vanilla extract and milk until the frosting reaches a spreadable consistency.
Assemble the cake by placing one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread about half of the banana pudding filling evenly over the top. Add the next cake layer and the remaining pudding filling. Finally, place the last cake layer on top.
Frost the top and sides of the entire cake with cream cheese frosting.
Just before serving, arrange the fresh banana slices on top of the cake and drizzle with caramel sauce or honey.

How to Serve Simple Banana Pudding Layer Cake

This cake is best served at room temperature. For an extra special touch, you can put it on a beautiful cake stand and enjoy it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side!

How to Store Simple Banana Pudding Layer Cake

To keep your cake fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This will help it stay moist and delicious for up to 3-4 days. If you need to keep it longer, you can freeze the cake layers before frosting.

Tips to Make Simple Banana Pudding Layer Cake

Make sure to use ripe bananas for the best flavor.
Don’t rush the cooling process; let the cakes cool completely before frosting.
If you like extra banana flavor, you can increase the amount of banana extract slightly.

Variation

You can personalize this cake with different flavors by substituting the yellow cake mix for chocolate or adding nuts like walnuts or pecans in the layers or frosting.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh bananas in the cake mix?
Yes, you can mash about 1-2 ripe bananas and add them to your cake batter for added banana flavor.

2. Can I make this cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake layers and pudding filling a day ahead and assemble the cake just before serving.

3. What can I use instead of cake mix?
You can make a homemade cake using flour, sugar, baking powder, and eggs as a substitute for the cake mix if you prefer.

Enjoy making your Simple Banana Pudding Layer Cake! It’s fun, easy, and incredibly delicious!