Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake Recipe

Experience the divine taste of our Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake, where every layer speaks volumes of sweetness and texture. This cake perfectly blends the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the nutty crunch of pecans, all smothered in a lusciously smooth caramel sauce. It’s an elegant dessert that promises to be the centerpiece of any gathering, turning simple moments into sweet memories.

Ingredients:

• 3 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup chopped pecans, plus extra for garnish
• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs, one at a time, then stir in vanilla and mashed bananas.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the banana mixture, alternating with buttermilk, starting and ending with flour. Fold in 1 cup chopped pecans.
5. Divide batter evenly between prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
6. Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
7. Once cool, layer the cakes with caramel sauce between each layer and on top. Drizzle additional caramel over the top and garnish with more pecans.

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 50 minutes
Kcal: 530 per serving | Servings: 8

Notes

• Bananas: Use overripe bananas for the best sweetness and texture.
• Caramel Sauce: For best results, use a high-quality or homemade caramel sauce for richer flavor.
• Pecans: Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to the batter to enhance their flavor.
• Storage: This cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare this cake a day in advance. Keep it refrigerated, and add the caramel drizzle just before serving to maintain its texture and appearance.

Q: What can I use instead of buttermilk?
A: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a quick substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to a cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Q: Can this recipe be made into cupcakes?
A: Absolutely! Adjust the baking time to about 15-20 minutes for cupcakes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Conclusion

The Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavors that are both comforting and luxurious. With each layer offering something unique, from the moist banana cake to the crunchy pecans and the rich caramel, this cake is sure to impress. Serve it up at your next gathering and watch as it becomes the star of the show, pleasing both the eye and the palate.