Banana Bread Frosting

Banana Bread Frosting: This super simple, classic, rich cream cheese frosting is perfect for icing all sorts of banana bread.

The tangy richness of the frosting pairs perfectly with any type of banana bread, of which I have made dozens (some of the most popular recipes on the site).

Because I have made hundreds of loaves of banana bread, I have a good idea as to what type of frosting or toppings work well.

This cream cheese frosting could be used on a Classic Loaf of Banana Bread, Banana Cake, Banana and Carrot Muffins, Banana Sourdough Muffins, Pumpkin Bread, or even on a Brown Butter Chocolate Chip Banana Bread if you’d really like to take your banana bread over the top.

✏️ Topping Variations

• Banana Bread Glaze: For a sweet but less intense topping, try a banana bread glaze. Drizzle it on rather than spreading it on with a knife.
• Streusel Topping: For late summer, fall, or winter vibes, try a streusel topping on your banana bread.
• Chocolate Cream Cheese Frosting: A slight twist with melted chocolate incorporated into the frosting.

🛒 Ingredients

Below are the ingredients needed to make Banana Bread Frosting.

• Cream Cheese: Use a full fat cream cheese bar. Make sure it is quite soft but not melty. Any brand works. You can also substitute mascarpone, similar to the frosting made in this Lemon Bluberry Mascarpone Cake.
• Butter: I love to use salted butter while baking. Make sure it is quite soft, but again, not melty.
• Powdered Sugar: Adds sweetness.
• Vanilla Extract: Use real vanilla extract. Large bottles can be purchased at a cheaper amount per unit volume at wholesale stores like Costco.

See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.

📝 How to Make Banana Bread Frosting

For a closer look, including step-by-step photos, see the detailed instructions below on how to make Banana Bread Frosting.

Step 1. Add Ingredients: Add the softened cream cheese, softened butter, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract to a large mixing bowl.

Step 2. Combine: Beat with a handheld mixer or stand mixer until creamy and smooth.

Step 3. Frost the Banana Bread: Add the frosting to the top of a cooled loaf of banana bread. Spread it with a knife, the back of a large spoon, or with an offset spatula.