If you’re a fan of decadent desserts that tantalize your taste buds with layers of flavor, then get ready to be delighted by our irresistible Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake recipe. This dessert masterpiece combines moist banana cake layers, crunchy pecans, and luscious caramel sauce to create a treat that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this sweet symphony of flavors!
Ingredients:
- 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 and spotty)
- Chopped pecans
Vegan Caramel Sauce:
- 1 + 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1 Tbsp butter (vegan or regular)
Directions:
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 6-inch cake pans by lining the bottoms with parchment paper and spraying the sides with non-stick spray. Alternatively, use two 8-inch cake pans.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: Sift flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt together on a large piece of parchment paper.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, mix eggs, oil, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add mashed bananas and mix again.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly incorporate the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Add chopped pecans and mix to distribute evenly.
5. Bake the Cake Layers: Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes sit for 5 minutes, then remove from pans onto cooling racks.
6. Prepare Vegan Caramel Sauce: Combine sugar and water in a saucepan, simmer until golden brown, then whisk in coconut milk and butter until smooth.
7. Make Swiss Meringue Buttercream: Beat egg whites and sugar over a pot of boiling water until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C). Whip until stiff peaks form, then gradually add cubed butter until the mixture is light and fluffy.
8. Assemble the Cake: For the cake assembly, trim the tops of the cakes to level, stack with buttercream and caramel between each layer.
9. Add Caramel Drip: Once the cake is assembled, cool it completely, then pour caramel sauce over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a stunning finish.
10. Indulge in Sweet Bliss: Slice into this heavenly creation and savor each bite of moist cake, creamy buttercream, crunchy pecans, and luscious caramel sauce. Whether enjoyed as a special occasion dessert or a decadent treat any day of the week, this Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is sure to impress!
Serving and Storage Tips :
After crafting a delectable Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake, it’s essential to serve and store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cake stays divine from the first slice to the last crumb:
1. Serving Suggestions:
- Serve slices of the cake at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop and the caramel to soften slightly.
- Garnish each slice with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a drizzle of additional caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
2. Store Appropriately:
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight cake container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
- Alternatively, you can store the cake in the refrigerator, especially if your kitchen is warm or if the cake contains perishable ingredients like buttercream or cream.
3. Refrigeration Considerations:
- If storing in the refrigerator, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
- Keep in mind that refrigeration can sometimes dry out cakes, so be sure to wrap it well to maintain moisture.
4. Freezing Options:
- If you won’t be able to finish the cake within a few days, consider freezing individual slices or the entire cake for longer-term storage.
- Wrap slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
5. Thawing Frozen Cake:
- When ready to enjoy frozen cake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
- For individual slices, you can also microwave them on a low setting for a quick thaw.
6. Best Enjoyed Fresh:
- While this cake will stay fresh for several days when stored properly, it’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking for optimal taste and texture.
- Share the joy of this delightful cake with family and friends, or savor it as a decadent treat for yourself!
7. Refreshing Leftover Cake:
- If the cake starts to dry out slightly, you can refresh it by brushing each slice with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water before serving.
8. Portion Control:
- For smaller households or gatherings, consider cutting the cake into individual servings and storing them separately for easier portion control and serving.
9. Avoid Direct Sunlight:
- Store the cake away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent the caramel from melting or the cake from drying out prematurely.
10. Reuse Leftovers Creatively:
- Repurpose any leftover cake into delicious dessert creations, such as cake pops, trifles, or crumbled toppings for ice cream or yogurt parfaits.
Variations:
Looking to add a twist to your classic Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake recipe? Get creative and explore these delightful variations to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests:
1. Chocolate Drizzle Delight:
- Add a decadent touch by drizzling melted chocolate over the cooled cake before serving. The combination of chocolate and caramel is pure indulgence!
2. Toasted Coconut Crunch:
- Sprinkle toasted coconut flakes between the layers of the cake for an added crunch and tropical flavor. The toasted coconut pairs beautifully with the caramel and banana flavors.
3. Rum Infusion:
- Enhance the caramel sauce with a splash of rum for a sophisticated twist. Brush each cake layer with a rum syrup before assembling to infuse the cake with rich, boozy flavor.
4. Spiced Sensation:
- Incorporate warm spices like nutmeg, cloves, and ginger into the cake batter for a spiced variation. These aromatic spices complement the sweetness of the caramel and bananas perfectly.
5. Nutty Bliss:
- Swap out the pecans for your favorite nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts, for a different flavor profile. Toast the nuts before adding them to the cake for enhanced depth of flavor.
6. Cream Cheese Frosting Finish:
- Substitute the Swiss meringue buttercream with a tangy cream cheese frosting for a delightful contrast to the sweet caramel and banana flavors. Spread a generous layer between each cake layer for a creamy indulgence.
7. Salted Caramel Surprise:
- Elevate the caramel sauce by incorporating a pinch of sea salt for a sweet and salty contrast. The salted caramel adds complexity and enhances the overall flavor of the cake.
8. Tropical Twist:
- Add diced pineapple or mango between the cake layers for a tropical twist. The juicy fruit adds brightness and complements the banana and caramel flavors beautifully.
9. Bourbon Barrel Aged Caramel:
- Upgrade the caramel sauce by using bourbon barrel-aged maple syrup for a rich and complex flavor. The bourbon undertones add depth and sophistication to the caramel sauce.
10. Berry Burst:
- Layer sliced strawberries or raspberries between the cake layers for a burst of fruity freshness. The tangy berries cut through the richness of the cake and caramel for a refreshing twist.
FAQs:
1. Can I use other types of nuts instead of pecans in this recipe?
- Yes, you can customize the cake by using your favorite nuts such as walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts instead of pecans. Toasting the nuts before adding them to the batter enhances their flavor.
2. How ripe should the bananas be for the cake?
- The bananas should be very ripe and spotty, as they will be sweeter and have a stronger flavor. Overripe bananas are ideal for mashing and incorporating into the cake batter.
3. Can I make the caramel sauce ahead of time?
- Yes, you can prepare the caramel sauce in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to use, gently reheat the sauce until it reaches a pourable consistency.
4. Is it necessary to use cake flour, or can I substitute with all-purpose flour?
- All-purpose flour works well in this recipe, but if you prefer a lighter texture, you can use cake flour instead. The difference in texture will be subtle, so feel free to use what you have on hand.
5. Can I make this cake without eggs for a vegan version?
- Yes, you can replace the eggs in the recipe with flax eggs or a commercial egg replacer to make a vegan-friendly version of the cake.
With its irresistible combination of flavors and textures, our Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is sure to become a favorite in your dessert repertoire. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying your sweet tooth, this indulgent treat is guaranteed to bring joy with every bite. Gather your ingredients and get ready to embark on a culinary journey filled with sweet bliss!
Print
Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake
Description
If you’re a fan of decadent desserts that tantalize your taste buds with layers of flavor, then get ready to be delighted by our irresistible Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake recipe. This dessert masterpiece combines moist banana cake layers, crunchy pecans, and luscious caramel sauce to create a treat that’s sure to impress. Let’s dive into the recipe and learn how to create this sweet symphony of flavors!
Ingredients
- 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 and spotty)
- Chopped pecans
Vegan Caramel Sauce:
- 1 + 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk or heavy cream
- 1 Tbsp butter (vegan or regular)
Instructions
1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare three 6-inch cake pans by lining the bottoms with parchment paper and spraying the sides with non-stick spray. Alternatively, use two 8-inch cake pans.
2. Prepare Dry Ingredients: Sift flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt together on a large piece of parchment paper.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, mix eggs, oil, sugar, and vanilla until smooth. Add mashed bananas and mix again.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Slowly incorporate the sifted dry ingredients into the wet mixture, mixing just until combined. Add chopped pecans and mix to distribute evenly.
5. Bake the Cake Layers: Pour the batter into the prepared pans and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cakes sit for 5 minutes, then remove from pans onto cooling racks.
6. Prepare Vegan Caramel Sauce: Combine sugar and water in a saucepan, simmer until golden brown, then whisk in coconut milk and butter until smooth.
7. Make Swiss Meringue Buttercream: Beat egg whites and sugar over a pot of boiling water until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C). Whip until stiff peaks form, then gradually add cubed butter until the mixture is light and fluffy.
8. Assemble the Cake: For the cake assembly, trim the tops of the cakes to level, stack with buttercream and caramel between each layer.
9. Add Caramel Drip: Once the cake is assembled, cool it completely, then pour caramel sauce over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides for a stunning finish.
10. Indulge in Sweet Bliss: Slice into this heavenly creation and savor each bite of moist cake, creamy buttercream, crunchy pecans, and luscious caramel sauce. Whether enjoyed as a special occasion dessert or a decadent treat any day of the week, this Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is sure to impress!
Notes
After crafting a delectable Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake, it’s essential to serve and store it properly to maintain its freshness and flavor. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your cake stays divine from the first slice to the last crumb:
1. Serving Suggestions:
- Serve slices of the cake at room temperature to allow the flavors to fully develop and the caramel to soften slightly.
- Garnish each slice with a sprinkle of chopped pecans or a drizzle of additional caramel sauce for an extra touch of indulgence.
2. Store Appropriately:
- Store any leftover cake in an airtight cake container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
- Alternatively, you can store the cake in the refrigerator, especially if your kitchen is warm or if the cake contains perishable ingredients like buttercream or cream.
3. Refrigeration Considerations:
- If storing in the refrigerator, allow the cake to come to room temperature before serving for the best taste and texture.
- Keep in mind that refrigeration can sometimes dry out cakes, so be sure to wrap it well to maintain moisture.
4. Freezing Options:
- If you won’t be able to finish the cake within a few days, consider freezing individual slices or the entire cake for longer-term storage.
- Wrap slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil before placing them in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag.
5. Thawing Frozen Cake:
- When ready to enjoy frozen cake, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
- For individual slices, you can also microwave them on a low setting for a quick thaw.
6. Best Enjoyed Fresh:
- While this cake will stay fresh for several days when stored properly, it’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days of baking for optimal taste and texture.
- Share the joy of this delightful cake with family and friends, or savor it as a decadent treat for yourself!
7. Refreshing Leftover Cake:
- If the cake starts to dry out slightly, you can refresh it by brushing each slice with a simple syrup made from equal parts sugar and water before serving.
8. Portion Control:
- For smaller households or gatherings, consider cutting the cake into individual servings and storing them separately for easier portion control and serving.
9. Avoid Direct Sunlight:
- Store the cake away from direct sunlight and heat sources to prevent the caramel from melting or the cake from drying out prematurely.
10. Reuse Leftovers Creatively:
- Repurpose any leftover cake into delicious dessert creations, such as cake pops, trifles, or crumbled toppings for ice cream or yogurt parfaits.
