Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake

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Indulge in the rich flavors of Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake, a decadent dessert that combines moist banana cake layers with creamy caramel frosting and crunchy pecans. Perfect for special occasions or any time you crave a delightful treat!

Ingredients:

  • For the Cake:
    • 3 cups all-purpose flour
    • 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
    • 1 teaspoon baking soda
    • ½ teaspoon salt
    • 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
    • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
    • 1 cup brown sugar, packed
    • 3 large eggs
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 1 ½ cups mashed ripe bananas (about 3 large bananas)
    • 1 cup buttermilk
    • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • For the Caramel Frosting:
    • 1 cup unsalted butter
    • 2 cups packed light brown sugar
    • ½ cup heavy cream
    • 4 cups powdered sugar, sifted
    • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
    • 1 cup chopped pecans (for garnish)

Directions:

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.

Prepare the Cake:

  1. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
  2. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
  3. Add Wet Ingredients: Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
  4. Alternate Mixing: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Fold in chopped pecans.
  5. Bake: Divide batter evenly among prepared pans. Smooth tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to wire racks to cool completely.

Prepare the Caramel Frosting:

  1. Make Caramel Sauce: In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add brown sugar and cream. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
  2. Beat Frosting: Gradually beat in powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency with cream if needed.

Assemble the Cake:

  1. Layer and Frost: Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread caramel frosting generously over the top. Repeat with remaining layers. Frost sides of the cake with remaining caramel frosting.
  2. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top of the cake for garnish.
  3. Serve: Allow frosting to set slightly before slicing and serving.

Nutritional Information

  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
  • Calories: 600 kcal per serving
  • Servings: 12

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Tips:

  1. Room Temperature: For best flavor, serve the Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake at room temperature. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
  2. Garnish: Before serving, sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top to add a delightful crunch and enhance visual appeal.
  3. Pairing Suggestions: Serve slices of this cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent dessert experience.
  4. Special Occasions: Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any special occasion where you want to impress with a homemade treat.

Storage Tips:

  1. Refrigeration: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Ensure it is tightly wrapped to prevent the cake from drying out.
  2. Freezing: You can freeze unfrosted cake layers for up to 1 month. Wrap each layer individually in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil before placing in a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before frosting and serving.
  3. Frosting Sensitivity: The caramel frosting may firm up in the refrigerator. Let the cake sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving to soften the frosting for easier slicing.
  4. Long-Term Storage: While best enjoyed fresh, this cake can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it is covered to prevent absorption of other odors.

These serving and storage tips ensure that your Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake remains delicious and presentable, whether you’re serving it immediately or storing it for later enjoyment. Enjoy the rich flavors and textures of this decadent dessert with confidence!

Variations:

  1. Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the top of the frosted cake for a decadent chocolate and caramel fusion.
  2. Banana Nut Bread Cake: Add a layer of cream cheese frosting between the cake layers for a twist on classic banana nut bread flavors.
  3. Coconut Addition: Sprinkle shredded coconut over each frosting layer for a tropical twist that complements the caramel and pecans.
  4. Banana Foster Inspired: Layer sliced bananas between the cake layers and drizzle with a rum-infused caramel sauce for a boozy and indulgent dessert.
  5. Maple Pecan: Substitute the caramel frosting with a maple-flavored frosting and top with toasted pecans for a fall-inspired variation.
  6. Banana Split Cake: Add a layer of whipped cream and sliced strawberries between the cake layers, then top with a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a playful take on a classic dessert.
  7. Coffee Infusion: Add 1-2 tablespoons of instant espresso powder to the cake batter for a subtle coffee flavor that complements the bananas and caramel.
  8. Nutella Swirl: Swirl Nutella into the cake batter before baking for a rich chocolate-hazelnut twist.
  9. Citrus Zest: Add grated orange or lemon zest to the cake batter and frosting for a citrusy brightness that balances the sweetness.
  10. Spiced Rum Soak: Brush each cake layer with a spiced rum syrup before frosting for an added depth of flavor and moisture.
  1. Cream Cheese Frosting: Replace the caramel frosting with a tangy cream cheese frosting for a contrast to the sweet banana and pecan flavors.
  2. Banana Foster Topping: Serve each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for a decadent Banana Foster-inspired treat.
  3. Almond Crunch: Add almond extract to the cake batter and sprinkle sliced almonds on top of the frosting for a nutty crunch.
  4. Mocha Twist: Incorporate cocoa powder into the cake batter and frost with a coffee-flavored buttercream for a mocha-inspired cake.
  5. Salted Caramel: Sprinkle sea salt flakes over each layer of frosting for a sweet and salty flavor combination.
  6. Berry Compote: Serve each slice with a spoonful of mixed berry compote or preserves for a fruity twist.
  7. Caramelized Banana: Arrange caramelized banana slices on top of each cake layer before frosting for an extra burst of caramelized flavor.
  8. Pumpkin Spice: Substitute some of the mashed bananas with canned pumpkin puree and add pumpkin spice to the cake batter for a fall-inspired variation.
  9. Lemon Glaze: Drizzle a lemon glaze over the cake instead of frosting for a lighter citrusy option.
  10. Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans and replace with toasted coconut flakes or omit altogether for a nut-free version of the cake.

FAQs:

  1. Can I use frozen bananas for this cake recipe?
    • Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas. Make sure to drain any excess liquid before mashing and incorporating them into the batter.
  2. Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?
    • Yes, you can make a substitute for buttermilk by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes before using.
  3. How do I prevent the cake layers from sticking to the pans?
    • Grease the pans thoroughly with butter or cooking spray, then dust with flour to create a non-stick surface. Alternatively, line the bottom of the pans with parchment paper.
  4. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
    • Yes, you can bake the cake layers in advance and store them in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before assembling and frosting.
  5. How do I store leftover cake?
    • Store leftover cake covered in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Bring to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
  6. Can I freeze this cake?
    • Yes, you can freeze the unfrosted cake layers for up to 1 month. Wrap each layer tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before frosting and serving.
  7. How should I store a cake frosted with caramel frosting?
    • Store a cake frosted with caramel frosting in the refrigerator due to the butter content in the frosting. Keep it covered to prevent it from absorbing other odors.
  8. Can I use store-bought caramel sauce instead of making my own?
    • Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce for convenience. Heat it slightly to make it easier to spread as frosting.
  9. What can I do if my frosting is too thick?
    • If the caramel frosting becomes too thick, gradually add a small amount of cream or milk and beat until the desired consistency is reached.
  10. How can I prevent the pecans from sinking in the cake batter?
    • Toss the chopped pecans in a tablespoon of flour before folding them into the cake batter. This helps to distribute them evenly and prevents sinking during baking.

Indulge in Deliciousness This Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a standout dessert for any celebration. Enjoy the moist banana cake complemented by the rich caramel frosting and crunchy pecans, perfect for creating memorable moments with family and friends. Treat yourself to a slice of this heavenly cake and savor every bite of its homemade goodness!