If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm embrace, this Banana Caramel Cake Recipe is the one to try. It combines the natural sweetness and moist texture of ripe bananas with the rich, buttery allure of caramel, creating a cake that’s both comforting and decadent. Every bite melts in your mouth with layers of flavor, making it the perfect treat to share with family or impress friends at your next gathering. This recipe brings together simple pantry staples to create something truly memorable, so get ready to bake a slice of happiness!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Banana Caramel Cake Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a special role—from adding moisture and structure to enhancing flavor and color—making it easy to whip up but impossible to forget.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: This forms the foundation of your tender cake crumb, ensuring a soft yet sturdy texture.
- 1 cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness while helping to create a golden crust.
- 1 tsp baking powder: Gives lift for a light and fluffy result.
- 1/2 tsp baking soda: Works with the bananas’ acidity to tenderize and tender crumb.
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed: The star ingredient that brings natural sweetness, moisture, and a lovely banana flavor.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps keep the cake moist.
- 2 large eggs: These provide structure and help bind everything together.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the sweetness and warms up the flavor profile.
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce: Our luscious finishing touch that adds a dreamy, buttery note in every bite.
How to Make Banana Caramel Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). This ensures even baking right from the start. Grease your 9×9 inch pan with butter or non-stick spray, then dust it lightly with flour to prevent sticking. This preparation guarantees an easy release for your beautiful cake once it’s ready.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the flour, sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. Whisking these together not only evenly distributes the leavening but also aerates the flour for a lighter cake.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, mash your ripe bananas until smooth, then add in the melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mixing these wet ingredients well ensures the butter is fully incorporated and the vanilla infuses the batter with its charming fragrance.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Mixtures Together
Gradually pour the wet banana mixture into the dry ingredients, folding gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake tender and light. You want to see streaks come together without a heavy batter.
Step 5: Layer With Caramel Sauce
Pour half of your batter into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly. Then drizzle half of the caramel sauce over the top. Add the remaining batter and repeat the caramel drizzle on top, creating beautiful swirls that će caramelize as the cake bakes.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Place the pan in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. The cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. This means your cake is perfectly baked — moist but not wet.
Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 15 minutes before slicing. Cooling helps the cake set, making it easier to cut and serving a better texture overall.
How to Serve Banana Caramel Cake Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra special touch, sprinkle chopped toasted walnuts or pecans on top for some delightful crunch. A dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream beside a warm slice elevates this treat into a truly indulgent dessert experience.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of coffee or tea. For brunch, serve alongside fresh fruit or a light salad to balance the sweetness. It can also work as a cozy dessert after a hearty meal, rounding things out perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Banana Caramel Cake as mini individual portions in pretty ramekins or small jars, layering with extra caramel sauce or sliced bananas in between. You can even turn it into a trifle by layering with whipped cream and banana slices for a stunning presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Your Banana Caramel Cake will keep well in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for about five days. Keeping it covered prevents the cake from drying out and helps maintain those moist, caramel-rich flavors.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this cake later, it freezes beautifully. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months without loss of texture or flavor.
Reheating
When you’re ready to eat frozen cake, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm slices briefly in the microwave for about 20 seconds or in a low oven wrapped in foil. This brings back the fresh-baked warmth and enhances the caramel’s gooey goodness.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for this cake?
Absolutely! Overripe bananas actually work best because they’re sweeter and softer, which imparts more flavor and natural moisture to your Banana Caramel Cake Recipe.
Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix that measures cup-for-cup, and you’ll still get a tasty and moist banana cake with caramel swirls.
Can I make the caramel sauce from scratch?
Definitely. While store-bought caramel sauce is convenient, homemade caramel made by melting sugar with butter and cream adds a personalized touch and an amazing depth of flavor.
What’s the best way to mash bananas for the recipe?
Use a fork or potato masher to mash until smooth but still with some small lumps; this texture keeps the cake moist and adds delightful banana pockets.
Can I double this recipe for a larger cake?
Yes, just double all ingredients and bake in a larger pan or split batter into two pans. Adjust baking time accordingly and check doneness with a toothpick regularly.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly heartwarming about baking a Banana Caramel Cake Recipe that fills your kitchen with such irresistible aromas and soul-soothing flavors. This cake elegantly combines the humble banana with the decadence of caramel in a way that feels both homey and special. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and see how this simple recipe can create moments of joy, slice by slice!
Print
Banana Caramel Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 45-50 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
This moist and flavorful Banana Caramel Cake combines ripe bananas with rich caramel sauce, creating a perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Easy to make and baked to golden perfection, it’s an ideal dessert for any occasion.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
Wet Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Additional
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease and flour a 9×9 inch baking pan to prevent sticking and ensure an even bake.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and baking soda. This ensures even distribution of leavening agents.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mash the ripe bananas thoroughly, then add melted unsalted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix well to incorporate all flavors.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Gradually add the wet banana mixture to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined to avoid overmixing, which could toughen the cake.
- Layer Batter and Caramel: Pour half of the batter into the prepared baking pan. Drizzle half of the caramel sauce evenly over the batter. Pour the remaining batter on top and then drizzle the remaining caramel sauce over the surface for a rich, swirled effect.
- Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before slicing. This helps the cake set for cleaner slices and enhances flavor.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Do not overmix the batter to keep the cake tender.
- Caramel sauce can be homemade or store-bought; use a good-quality sauce for the best flavor.
- Let the cake cool completely for easier slicing and better texture.
- Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 5 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
