This easy swirled banana Bundt cake combines extra-ripe bananas, semisweet chocolate, and a touch of cinnamon for a moist and flavorful dessert. With cream cheese swirled into the batter, it’s a tender and satisfying treat that’s perfect for breakfast or dessert.
12tablespoons1 ½ sticks salted butterat room temperature (plus more for greasing)
¾cuppacked light brown sugar
2teaspoonspure vanilla extract
3large eggs
2cupsmashed bananaabout 4–5 bananas
2 ½cupsall-purpose flour
2teaspoonsbaking powder
½teaspoonbaking soda
1 ½teaspoonsground cinnamon
½teaspoonkosher salt
2cupschopped semisweet chocolate
For the Swirl:
8ouncescream cheeseat room temperature
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Instructions
Prepare the Oven and Pan: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Generously grease a 10-inch Bundt pan with butter to ensure easy removal later.
Make the Cake Batter: Using a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, beat the butter, brown sugar, and vanilla on medium speed until the mixture is fluffy and well combined, about 5 minutes. Add the eggs, one at a time, making sure to mix well after each addition. Once the eggs are incorporated, mix in the mashed bananas until smooth, about 1 minute. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients in the stand mixer. Mix on low speed until the batter is just combined, about 1–2 minutes. Gently fold in the chopped chocolate using a spatula.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Swirl: Place the cream cheese in a microwave-safe bowl and heat it on high for 30–45 seconds, or until softened and nearly melted. Stir well to create a smooth consistency.
Layer the Batter and Swirl: Spread half of the banana batter evenly into the prepared Bundt pan. Pour the softened cream cheese over this layer and spread it gently into an even layer, swirling slightly with a spatula to create a marbled effect. Add the remaining banana batter on top and smooth the surface with a spatula.
Bake the Cake: Place the Bundt pan in the oven and bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 15 minutes. Then carefully invert the pan onto a serving plate to release the cake. Serve it warm or allow it to come to room temperature before slicing. Store any leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Notes
Store leftovers in plastic wrap or an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Extra-ripe bananas work best for this recipe, as they add more natural sweetness and moisture.