Our Easy Cake Mix Banana Cake transforms a box cake mix into a dessert that tastes completely homemade. With just a few pantry staples and your favorite frosting, this delicious treat is perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or anytime you’re craving something sweet without the fuss.
Cake is one of my favorite foods (right behind potatoes) and I don’t mind taking a shortcut now and then to make it as easy as possible. This recipe is a great way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on the counter, and the end result taste like something made from scratch.
When it comes to finishing touches, there are so many options for this cake. I went with a dreamy chocolate frosting (link in recipe card), but you could easily swap it out for cream cheese frosting or even a classic chocolate frosting. No matter what you choose, it’s going to be a delicious treat every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- No Fancy Equipment Needed: You only need a mixing bowl, spoon, and pan—no electric mixer required.
- Moist and Tender Every Time: The bananas add natural moisture, so you’ll never end up with a dry cake.
- Crowd-Pleaser: This cake always gets rave reviews, so you should be prepared to share the recipe if you take it to an event.
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Ingredient Photo
Ingredient Notes
I don’t make this according to the directions on the back of the box, though you absolutely can if you prefer. I like to switch a few things up, and you can too! Below are some ideas:
- Cake Mix: I usually use one box of yellow cake mix, but I’ve also made this with white, chocolate, and even spice cake mix. All of them work great!
- Butter: Melted butter gives the cake a richer, more homemade taste. You can swap in canola oil, vegetable oil, or even unsweetened applesauce if you’d like a lighter option.
- Eggs: I add one extra egg (so four large eggs total) to give the cake a little more body and homemade flavor.
- Milk: Instead of water, I use whole milk for a richer texture. But you can stick with water to make it more budget-friendly or if you just don’t have milk on hand.
- Bananas: Make sure to use over-ripe bananas for the best flavor and sweetness. Just-ripe bananas will work too, but I wouldn’t recommend green ones for this recipe.
Step-By-Step Photos
See recipe card below with ingredient amounts and detailed instructions.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients with a whisk or large spoon until smooth.
2. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared cake pan.
3. Bake for 34–38 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
4. Let the cake cool completely, then top with your favorite frosting.
Frequently Asked Questions
That depends on the frosting. If you use a dairy-based frosting, it should be refrigerated. Otherwise, the cake can stay at room temperature for a few days.
Absolutely! This cake freezes well with almost any frosting. Freeze the unfrosted or frosted cake unwrapped until completely solid, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and place in an airtight container or freezer bag. Unwrap before thawing so the plastic wrap doesn’t stick.
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These are all made with with box mix!
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Easy Cake Mix Banana Cake
Ingredients
- 1 box cake mix
- 1 cup milk
- ½ cup melted butter
- 4 eggs
- 1 ½ cups mashed banana about 3 medium
- nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking pan with nonstick cooking spray.nonstick cooking spray
- Mix the batter: In a large mixing bowl, combine all the ingredients with a whisk or large spoon until smooth.
- Pour into pan: Spread the batter evenly in the prepared cake pan.
- Bake: Bake for 34–38 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Frost and serve: Let the cake cool completely on a wire rack, then top with your favorite frosting.
About Mindy
Mindy has been cooking for over 30 years, starting as a young mother who learned how to create delicious meals on a budget. Today, she shares approachable recipes made with everyday ingredients that are easy, affordable, and family-friendly. Her goal is to show that great food doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive.