Prepare the Cake Batter:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

• In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.

• Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream until fully incorporated.

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. If using walnuts, fold them in gently.

Bake the Cake:

• Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.

• Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

• Remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Cream Cheese Frosting:

• In a medium bowl, beat the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth and creamy.

• Gradually add the powdered sugar, one cup at a time, beating until smooth and fluffy.

• Stir in the vanilla extract. If the frosting is too thick, add heavy cream or milk, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Assemble the Cake:

• Once the cakes have cooled, place one layer on a serving platter.

• Spread a layer of cream cheese frosting over the top of the first cake layer.

• Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the entire cake with the remaining cream cheese frosting.

• Garnish with additional chopped walnuts on top if desired.

Serve and Enjoy:

• Slice and serve the Heavenly Banana Walnut Cream Cake. Enjoy the rich banana flavor paired with the creamy frosting and crunchy walnuts!