This decadent Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake combines moist banana cake layers, crunchy pecans, and luscious caramel sauce to create an irresistible dessert. Topped with a silky Swiss meringue buttercream and a caramel drip, this cake is perfect for any celebration or special occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Moist and Flavorful: The combination of ripe bananas and pecans creates a rich and tender crumb.
- Caramel Goodness: Homemade caramel sauce takes this cake to the next level.
- Elegant Presentation: The caramel drip adds a show-stopping finish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Cake:
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 ½ tsp baking soda
- ¾ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- 3 eggs
- 1 ½ cups vegetable oil
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ tsp pure vanilla extract
- 1 ½ cups mashed bananas (very ripe and spotty)
- ½ cup chopped pecans (or more, to taste)
For the Caramel Sauce (Vegan or Regular):
- 1 ¼ cups sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 1 cup full-fat coconut milk (vegan) or heavy cream (non-vegan)
- 1 tbsp butter (vegan or regular)
For the Swiss Meringue Buttercream:
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 ½ cups salted butter, softened
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3–4 tbsp caramel sauce
How to Make Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Cake Layers
1️⃣ Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line the bottoms of three 6-inch cake pans (or two 8-inch pans) with parchment paper and spray the sides with non-stick spray.
2️⃣ Sift the dry ingredients: Combine flour, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder, and salt on a sheet of parchment paper.
3️⃣ In a stand mixer with a paddle attachment, mix eggs, vegetable oil, sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add mashed bananas and mix again.
4️⃣ Slowly incorporate the sifted dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Stir in chopped pecans until evenly distributed.
5️⃣ Divide the batter among the prepared pans and bake for 40–45 minutes. Use a toothpick to check for doneness.
6️⃣ Cool the cakes in the pans for 5 minutes, then transfer them to cooling racks.
Step 2: Make the Caramel Sauce
1️⃣ Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Simmer until the sugar dissolves and the mixture turns golden brown.
2️⃣ Slowly whisk in the coconut milk or heavy cream and butter until smooth. Set aside to cool.
Step 3: Prepare the Swiss Meringue Buttercream
1️⃣ Combine egg whites and sugar in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Whisk constantly until the sugar dissolves and the mixture reaches 160°F (71°C).
2️⃣ Transfer the mixture to a stand mixer and whip on high speed until stiff peaks form.
3️⃣ Gradually add softened butter, one cube at a time, and beat until light and fluffy. Add vanilla extract and caramel sauce, mixing until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
1️⃣ Trim the tops of the cooled cakes to level them. Place one layer on a cake stand or plate.
2️⃣ Spread a layer of buttercream and drizzle caramel sauce over it. Repeat with the remaining layers.
3️⃣ Frost the top and sides of the cake with buttercream.
Step 5: Add the Caramel Drip
1️⃣ Let the assembled cake cool in the refrigerator for 30 minutes.
2️⃣ Gently pour caramel sauce over the top, letting it drip down the sides for a dramatic effect.
Recipe Notes
- Ripe Bananas: Ensure the bananas are very ripe (spotty) for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Pecan Variations: Toast the pecans before adding them for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
- Caramel Sauce Tips: Allow the caramel to cool slightly before pouring to prevent it from being too runny.
FAQs
1. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the cake layers a day in advance and store them wrapped in plastic wrap. Assemble the cake and add the caramel drip just before serving.
2. Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely. Wrap the assembled cake (without the caramel drip) tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Add the caramel drip after thawing.
3. Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Yes, walnuts make a great substitute for pecans if preferred.
Conclusion
The Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is a masterpiece of flavors and textures. With its moist banana cake, crunchy pecans, creamy buttercream, and rich caramel drip, it’s bound to impress your family and friends. Perfect for birthdays, holidays, or any time you want to indulge, this cake is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your stunning cake creations! 🍌✨