A Decadent Delight for Every Celebration!
This Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is a show-stopping dessert perfect for any occasion. With layers of moist banana cake, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans, it’s a treat that will impress your guests and leave them asking for more.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 3/4 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 eggs
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups mashed bananas (very ripe)
- Chopped pecans (to taste)
For the Vegan Caramel Sauce:
- 1 1/4 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1 tbsp butter (vegan or regular)
For the Swiss Meringue Buttercream:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 1/2 cups salted butter, softened
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3-4 tbsp caramel sauce
Directions:
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare Cake Pans: 2. Line three 6-inch or two 8-inch pans with parchment paper and spray the sides with non-stick spray.
Mix Dry Ingredients: 3. Sift flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt onto parchment paper.
Combine Wet Ingredients: 4. In a stand mixer, blend eggs, oil, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add mashed bananas and mix well.
Combine Ingredients: 5. Gradually add the dry mix to the wet ingredients, stirring until combined. Fold in chopped pecans to taste.
Bake: 6. Divide the batter among the prepared pans and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: 7. Cool the cakes in their pans for 5 minutes, then transfer them to cooling racks to cool completely.
Make Caramel Sauce: 8. Heat sugar and water over medium heat until the mixture turns golden. Whisk in coconut milk and butter until smooth and combined.
Make Buttercream: 9. Heat egg whites and sugar over boiling water, whisking constantly until the mixture reaches 160°F. Remove from heat and whip to stiff peaks. Gradually beat in softened butter until fluffy. Add vanilla extract and caramel sauce, mixing until smooth.
Assembly: 10. Trim the tops of the cakes to level them. Stack the cake layers with a layer of buttercream and caramel sauce between each. Chill the cake, then drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top.
Prep Time:
Total: 2 hours
Calories:
450 kcal per slice
Tips:
- Adjust the amount of pecans to achieve your desired texture.
- For a vegan cake, use vegan butter and coconut milk.
- Store the cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Make the caramel sauce and cakes a day ahead for convenience.
FAQs:
- Can I make this cake vegan? Yes, use vegan butter and coconut milk to make the cake and caramel sauce vegan-friendly.
- How long can I store the cake? The cake can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Can I use a different nut instead of pecans? Absolutely, walnuts or almonds would also work well in this recipe.
- How do I know when the caramel sauce is ready? The caramel sauce is ready when it reaches a rich, golden color and all the ingredients are well combined.
Chef’s Advice:
For a truly luxurious cake, make sure to use very ripe bananas—they add natural sweetness and moisture to the cake. When making the caramel sauce, keep a close eye on the sugar as it cooks to avoid burning. For the Swiss meringue buttercream, ensure your butter is softened but not too warm to achieve a smooth, creamy texture.
The Magic of Bananas and Caramel
Bananas and caramel are a match made in dessert heaven. The natural sweetness of ripe bananas pairs perfectly with the rich, buttery flavor of caramel, creating a cake that’s both indulgent and comforting.
Pecan Perfection
The addition of chopped pecans adds a delightful crunch to the cake, balancing the soft, moist layers with a bit of texture. Pecans also bring a warm, nutty flavor that complements the bananas and caramel beautifully.
A Layered Masterpiece
This cake isn’t just about taste—it’s a visual delight as well. The layers of cake, buttercream, and caramel create a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Drizzling the caramel sauce over the top adds an elegant finishing touch.
Perfect for Celebrations
Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a special get-together, this Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is a fantastic choice. Its rich flavors and beautiful layers make it a centerpiece that will wow your guests and provide a memorable dessert experience.
Conclusion
Indulge in this luxurious Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake, a perfect blend of sweet bananas, rich caramel, and crunchy pecans. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself, this cake is sure to delight and satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy every decadent bite!