Description
This indulgent caramel banana pecan cake is a showstopper dessert! Moist banana cake layers are filled with creamy caramel frosting, topped with a rich caramel drizzle, and finished with crunchy toasted pecans. Perfect for special occasions or whenever you’re craving something sweet and luxurious!
Ingredients
For the Banana Cake:
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2 1/2 cups (315g) all-purpose flour
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1 teaspoon baking soda
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1/2 teaspoon baking powder
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
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1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
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1/2 cup (100g) brown sugar
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2 large eggs
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 1/2 cups (340g) mashed ripe bananas (about 3-4 bananas)
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1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk (or substitute with 1/2 cup milk + 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice)
For the Caramel Frosting:
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1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter
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1 cup (200g) brown sugar
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1/4 cup (60ml) heavy cream
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 cups (250g) powdered sugar
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Topping:
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1/2 cup (120ml) caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
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1 cup (100g) toasted pecans, chopped
Instructions
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Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 8-inch round cake pans. -
Make the Banana Cake:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside.
In a large bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Mix in the mashed bananas.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, and mix until just combined. -
Bake the Cake:
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. -
Make the Caramel Frosting:
In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Gradually whisk in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. -
Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of caramel frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the top and sides of the cake with the remaining frosting. -
Add Toppings:
Drizzle caramel sauce over the top of the cake and sprinkle with toasted pecans.
Notes
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For a nut-free version, omit the pecans or substitute with crushed pretzels for a sweet-and-salty twist.
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Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to 5 days.
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Toast the pecans by baking them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.