Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is a decadent dessert that combines the rich flavors of ripe bananas, toasted pecans, and luscious caramel. This cake is perfect for any special occasion, from birthdays to holidays, and it’s sure to impress your guests with its moist layers and irresistible taste. The combination of sweet bananas, crunchy pecans, and creamy caramel creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that make every bite delightful. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding to make.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: Adds natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides structure to the cake.
- 1 teaspoon baking soda: Helps the cake rise.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors.
- 1 cup chopped pecans, plus extra for garnish: Adds crunch and a nutty flavor.
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened: Adds richness and moisture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake.
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed: Adds a deeper sweetness and moisture.
- 2 large eggs: Provides structure and stability.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor.
- 1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tang, which balances the sweetness.
- ½ cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling: Adds a rich, sweet layer between the cake layers and on top.
Directions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pans:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans to ensure the cakes do not stick and can be easily removed.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together ½ cup of softened unsalted butter, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and ½ cup of packed brown sugar until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the 2 large eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the 3 mashed bananas until well combined.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the banana mixture, alternating with the 1 cup of buttermilk, starting and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined to avoid overmixing.
- Fold in 1 cup of chopped pecans gently.
- Bake:
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Layer with Caramel:
- Once the cakes are completely cooled, place one cake layer on a serving plate.
- Spread ¼ cup of caramel sauce evenly over the top of the first layer.
- Place the second cake layer on top and spread another ¼ cup of caramel sauce over the top.
- Drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top of the cake and allow it to drip down the sides for a decorative effect.
- Garnish with more chopped pecans.
Nutrition Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories: Approximately 530 per serving
- Servings: 8
Serving
Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is best served at room temperature. For an extra indulgent experience, serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. This cake is perfect for special occasions and will be a hit at any gathering. Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Notes
- Ripe Bananas: Ensure your bananas are ripe, with plenty of brown spots, for the best flavor and sweetness.
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Caramel Sauce: Homemade caramel sauce can be used for a richer flavor, but store-bought caramel sauce works well too.
- Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor. Simply spread them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
FAQs
Can I make this cake ahead of time? Yes, you can bake the cake layers a day in advance. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and store at room temperature. Assemble the cake with caramel sauce on the day you plan to serve it.
Can I freeze the cake? Yes, you can freeze the cake layers. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before assembling with caramel sauce.
What if I don’t have pecans? You can substitute pecans with walnuts or omit the nuts entirely if you prefer.
Can I use a different type of flour? All-purpose flour is recommended for this recipe. If you need a gluten-free option, use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pans? Ensure you grease and flour the cake pans well. You can also line the bottoms with parchment paper for easier removal.
Can I use homemade caramel sauce? Yes, homemade caramel sauce can be used for a richer flavor. Ensure it is well-chilled before spreading it on the cake layers.
What if my cake is too dense? Make sure you’re not overmixing the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix until the ingredients are just combined.
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk? Buttermilk adds a slight tang and extra moisture to the cake. If you don’t have buttermilk, make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
How do I store the cake? Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I add other flavors to the cake? You can add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a spiced version of the cake. You can also add a tablespoon of rum or bourbon to the batter for an extra flavor dimension.
In conclusion, Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the sweet flavors of bananas and caramel with the crunch of pecans. This cake is perfect for any special occasion and is sure to impress your guests with its moist layers and delicious taste. Enjoy baking and sharing this wonderful cake with your loved ones!