Decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake

This Decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake is the ultimate dessert for anyone who loves the rich, indulgent combination of bananas, caramel, and pecans. Moist banana cake layers are filled with creamy caramel frosting, topped with a luscious caramel drizzle, and finished with crunchy toasted pecans. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something truly indulgent!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Moist and flavorful – Packed with ripe bananas for a naturally sweet and tender crumb.
• Rich and indulgent – Creamy caramel frosting and drizzle take it to the next level.
• Crunchy texture – Toasted pecans add the perfect contrast to the soft cake.
• Impressive yet easy – Perfect for special occasions or weekend baking.
• Crowd-pleaser – A dessert that everyone will love.

Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the cake:

• Ripe bananas, mashed
• All-purpose flour
• Baking powder
• Baking soda
• Salt
• Unsalted butter, softened
• Granulated sugar
• Brown sugar
• Eggs
• Vanilla extract
• Buttermilk (or milk with a splash of vinegar)

For the caramel frosting:

• Unsalted butter
• Brown sugar
• Heavy cream
• Powdered sugar
• Vanilla extract
• Salt

For the topping:

• Caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Pecans, toasted and chopped

Directions

1. Preheat the oven:
   Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper.
2. Make the cake batter:
   In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a large bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, then mix in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas. Alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk, mixing until just combined.
3. Bake the cakes:
   Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
4. Make the caramel frosting:
   In a saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Gradually beat in the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth and creamy.
5. Assemble the cake:
   Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous layer of caramel frosting on top. Add the second cake layer and frost the top and sides of the cake.
6. Add the toppings:
   Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cake and sprinkle with toasted pecans.
7. Serve:
   Slice and enjoy this decadent treat!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 12
• Prep time: 30 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Nut-free: Omit the pecans or replace them with shredded coconut.
• Chocolate twist: Add chocolate chips to the cake batter or drizzle with chocolate sauce.
• Gluten-free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Lighter frosting: Use a cream cheese frosting instead of caramel frosting.
• Mini cakes: Bake in muffin tins for individual servings.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Freeze unfrosted cake layers wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw and frost before serving.

FAQs

• Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
  Yes, store-bought caramel sauce works perfectly for the drizzle.
• How do I toast pecans?
  Spread pecans on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Can I make this cake ahead of time?
  Yes, the cake layers can be baked a day in advance. Frost and assemble the cake the day of serving.
• What can I use instead of buttermilk?
  Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar and let it sit for 5 minutes.
• Can I make this vegan?
  Use plant-based butter, flax eggs, and a dairy-free milk alternative.
• What can I serve with this cake?
  Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Conclusion
This Decadent Caramel Banana Pecan Cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist banana cake layers, rich caramel frosting, and crunchy pecans, it’s a treat that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re celebrating a special event or just indulging in a sweet craving, this cake is guaranteed to delight. Enjoy!

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