Ingredients
Cake Ingredients:
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Nonstick baking spray
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2 sticks (1 cup) butter, softened
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2 cups granulated sugar
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1 tablespoon vanilla extract
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4 large eggs
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3 cups all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1 teaspoon salt
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1/3 cup buttermilk
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1 1/2 cups mashed ripe banana (about 4 medium)
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One 8-ounce can crushed pineapple, with juice
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Optional garnishes: sweetened flaked coconut, chopped macadamia nuts
Frosting Ingredients:
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2 sticks (1 cup) butter, softened
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Two 8-ounce packages cream cheese, softened
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2 cups confectioners’ sugar
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
📝 Tip: The riper the bananas, the better the flavor and texture. Look for bananas with brown speckles.
Instructions
This cake is simple but benefits from good organization. Set your ingredients out, preheat the oven, and prepare to fall in love.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray three 9-inch cake pans with nonstick baking spray. You can also line the bottoms with parchment for easy release.
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the butter, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract on medium speed until light and fluffy. This takes about 2–3 minutes.
Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition to fully incorporate.
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, cinnamon, and salt.
Add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in batches, alternating with the buttermilk—starting and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined after each addition.
Fold in the mashed bananas and crushed pineapple (with juice) until the batter is thick and uniform.
Using a measuring cup or ladle, evenly spoon the batter into the three prepared pans. To eliminate air bubbles, gently slam the pans against the counter.
Bake for 25 to 35 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted in the center of each layer comes out clean.
Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then remove the cakes and transfer to wire racks to cool completely.
Notes
🕒 Cake Timeline
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Prep Time: 25 minutes
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Bake Time: 25–35 minutes
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Cooling & Frosting Time: ~1 hour
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Total Time: 2 hours (approx)
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Servings: 12–16 slices