This healthy banana smash cake is the perfect way to celebrate your little one’s first birthday! It’s made with simple, wholesome ingredients and naturally sweetened with ripe bananas (and a touch of applesauce for extra moisture). The result is a soft, fluffy cake your baby can dig into—without any refined sugar.

Whether you’re doing a first birthday photoshoot or hosting a little party, this baby-friendly cake is an easy, feel-good option that parents will love too.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Naturally sweetened: No refined sugar—just banana (and optional applesauce).
• Soft and tender: Perfect for baby’s first bite of birthday cake.
• Simple ingredients: Made with pantry staples and wholesome swaps.
• Easy to customize: Can be made dairy-free or gluten-free.

Refined Sugar Free Banana Smash Cake

Ingredients:

For the cake:

• 2 medium ripe bananas, mashed
• ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce (optional, adds moisture and extra sweetness)
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ cup whole milk or unsweetened non-dairy milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup whole wheat flour (or oat flour for a softer, gluten-free option)
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
• Pinch of salt

For the frosting:

• ½ cup full-fat Greek yogurt or plain coconut yogurt
• 2–3 tablespoons cream cheese or coconut cream
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• (Optional for adults tasting it too: 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup or mashed banana)

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease two 4-inch round cake pans (or one 6-inch pan) and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. Mash the bananas in a large bowl until smooth. Whisk in applesauce, eggs, milk, and vanilla.
3. In another bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet and stir gently until just combined—don’t overmix.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and smooth the tops.
6. Bake for 18–22 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool completely before removing from pans and frosting.
8. Make the frosting: Stir together yogurt, cream cheese, and vanilla until smooth. If it’s too soft, chill for 20 minutes before spreading.
9. Assemble: Spread frosting between layers and on top. Decorate simply with banana slices or berries.

🥜 Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Frosting (Richer Option)

Ingredients:

• 3 tablespoons natural peanut butter
• 2 ounces cream cheese, softened
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Optional: 1–2 teaspoons maple syrup

Instructions:
Use a hand mixer or whisk to beat all ingredients together until fluffy and smooth. Chill before using for easier spreading.

Tips & Variations

• For babies under one year, skip any added sweetener in the frosting.
• Make it dairy-free by using coconut milk and coconut yogurt.
• For a firmer frosting, use more cream cheese or chilled coconut cream.
• Store leftover cake covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Perfect for:

• First birthday photoshoots
• Smash cake sessions
• Healthier first birthday parties

This baby-friendly banana smash cake is proof that “healthy” can still be delicious and adorable! Your little one will love smashing into this soft, naturally sweet treat—and you’ll love knowing exactly what’s in it.