Name: Banana Cream Cupcakes
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour.; 1 cup granulated sugar.; 1 ½ tsp baking powder.; ½ tsp baking soda.; ¼ tsp salt.; ½ cup unsalted butter, softened.; 2 large eggs.; ½ cup sour cream.; ½ cup mashed ripe bananas (about 1 medium banana).; ½ tsp vanilla extract.; ½ cup heavy cream (for the filling).; ¼ cup powdered sugar (for the filling).; ¼ tsp vanilla extract (for the filling).; ¼ cup mashed ripe bananas (for the filling).; 4 oz cream cheese, softened (for the frosting).; 2 cups powdered sugar (for the frosting).; ½ tsp vanilla extract (for the frosting).

Banana Cream Cupcakes are a perfect dessert for any occasion, featuring a moist banana-flavored cake, creamy banana filling, and a smooth cream cheese frosting. These cupcakes start with a tender banana cake base, filled with a delicious whipped banana cream, and topped with a rich cream cheese frosting. The combination of flavors and textures makes these cupcakes irresistible! Whether you're serving them at a party or just enjoying them as a sweet treat, they're sure to be a hit.

Banana Cream Cupcakes are a delightful dessert that combines moist banana-flavored cake with a luscious banana cream filling and a rich cream cheese frosting. These cupcakes are perfect for any occasion, whether it's a birthday, a special celebration, or simply a weekend treat. The tender banana cake is infused with real bananas, giving it a naturally sweet flavor, while the whipped banana cream filling adds a creamy, luxurious texture to every bite. The cream cheese frosting is smooth, rich, and perfectly complements the banana flavors in the cake.

INGREDIENTS

All-purpose flour: 1 1/2 cups
Granulated sugar: 1 cup
Baking powder: 1 1/2 tsp
Baking soda: 1/2 tsp
Salt: 1/4 tsp
Unsalted butter: 1/2 cup, softened
Eggs: 2 large
Sour cream: 1/2 cup
Mashed bananas: 1/2 cup, ripe (about 1 medium banana)
Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp
Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (for the filling)
Powdered sugar: 1/4 cup (for the filling)
Vanilla extract: 1/4 tsp (for the filling)
Mashed bananas: 1/4 cup, ripe (for the filling)
Cream cheese: 4 oz, softened (for the frosting)
Powdered sugar: 2 cups (for the frosting)
Vanilla extract: 1/2 tsp (for the frosting)

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with cupcake liners.
Step 2:: In a bowl, mix together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3:: In a separate bowl, cream together softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 4:: Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream, mashed bananas, and vanilla extract until well combined.
Step 5:: Gradually fold in the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing just until combined.
Step 6:: Divide the batter evenly into the cupcake liners, filling each about 2/3 full. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cupcakes cool completely on a wire rack.
Step 7:: For the filling, whip heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Fold in mashed bananas until well combined.
Step 8:: Using a piping bag or spoon, fill the center of each cooled cupcake with the banana cream filling.
Step 9:: For the frosting, whip softened butter and cream cheese together until smooth and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar, mixing until fully incorporated. Add vanilla extract and mix well.
Step 10:: Frost the cooled cupcakes with the cream cheese frosting using a piping bag or spatula. Garnish with banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve the cupcakes at room temperature or chilled for a refreshing twist.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Helpful Notes

For a stronger banana flavor, add an extra 1/4 cup of mashed bananas to the cake batter.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Make sure the butter and cream cheese for the frosting are fully softened to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.

Why Banana Cream Cupcakes Are the Perfect Treat

Banana Cream Cupcakes are the ultimate combination of moist cake, creamy filling, and smooth frosting. The natural sweetness of the ripe bananas blends perfectly with the tangy cream cheese frosting, creating a balanced, delicious dessert. These cupcakes are versatile enough for any occasion, whether you're serving them at a birthday party or enjoying them as a special treat.

FAQs

Can I make these cupcakes ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake the cupcakes and store them (unfilled and unfrosted) in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Fill and frost them before serving.

Can I substitute the cream cheese frosting?

Yes, you can use whipped cream frosting or a buttercream frosting if you prefer.

Summary

Banana Cream Cupcakes are a delicious combination of moist banana-flavored cake, a creamy banana filling, and a rich cream cheese frosting. These cupcakes are perfect for parties, celebrations, or as a special treat any time of the year. The whipped banana cream filling adds a luscious texture, while the cream cheese frosting adds a touch of richness. Garnish with fresh banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch!