Introduction
Indulge in a decadent dessert that combines the sweet, tropical flavor of bananas with the rich, nutty crunch of pecans. This Banana Pecan Cake with Caramel Sauce is a luxurious treat for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a family gathering or celebrating a special event. The layers of moist, flavorful banana cake are complemented by a buttery, homemade caramel sauce, while the smooth caramel buttercream frosting ties everything together. Furthermore, the garnish of banana slices, pecans, and an extra drizzle of caramel adds both beauty and flavor. Whether served with coffee, tea, or your favorite beverage, this cake is sure to satisfy your sweet cravings.
Ingredients
For the Cake:
- 2 ripe bananas (mashed)
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 1 cup chopped pecans
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter (cubed)
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For the Frosting:
- 1½ cups butter (room temperature)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 2 tbsp caramel sauce (from above)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Sliced bananas
- Whole pecans
- Extra caramel sauce
Preparation
Step 1: Preheat & Prepare the Pans
First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare three 8-inch round cake pans by greasing and flouring them. This will ensure that your cakes come out easily once they are done baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
Meanwhile, in a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combination will give your cake its structure, allowing it to rise evenly during baking.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
Next, in a large mixing bowl, cream the unsalted butter and sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. Gradually add the eggs, one at a time, making sure each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then, mix in the vanilla extract and the mashed bananas until smooth.
Step 4: Create the Cake Batter
Now, slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the dry ingredients, as this will ensure an even distribution. Be careful not to overmix. Finally, gently fold in the chopped pecans to add texture and flavor to the cake.
Step 5: Bake the Cake
Divide the batter evenly between the three prepared cake pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Afterward, allow the cakes to cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Caramel Sauce
Step 1: Melt the Sugar
While the cakes cool, start the caramel sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly. Initially, the sugar will clump, but continue stirring until it melts completely and turns a deep amber color.
Step 2: Add the Butter
Once the sugar is melted, carefully add the cubed butter. The mixture will bubble up, so take your time stirring until the butter is fully incorporated.
Step 3: Add Cream & Finish
Next, slowly pour in the heavy cream while continuing to stir. The caramel will bubble vigorously, so be cautious. Once everything is smooth and combined, remove the pan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. Let the caramel sauce cool slightly before using.
Frosting
Step 1: Prepare the Buttercream
In the meantime, prepare the frosting by beating the butter until creamy and smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar, beating until light and fluffy. Then, mix in the caramel sauce, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to create a rich, flavorful frosting perfect for this cake.
Assembling the Cake
Step 1: Layer the Cake
Once the cakes are fully cooled, place the first layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of caramel buttercream on top, followed by a drizzle of caramel sauce. Repeat this process with the second and third layers, stacking them carefully.
Step 2: Frost the Cake
Now that your layers are assembled, frost the entire outside of the cake with the remaining buttercream. Smooth the surface for a clean, polished look.
Step 3: Garnish the Cake
Finally, garnish the top of the cake with sliced bananas, whole pecans, and a final drizzle of caramel sauce. This will not only make your cake look beautiful but also add an extra burst of flavor.
COOKING Note
To achieve the best results, make sure your bananas are fully ripe, as they will add more sweetness and moisture to the cake. Moreover, be careful when making the caramel sauce. Sugar can burn quickly, so pay close attention as it melts and turns amber.
Serving Suggestions
This Banana Pecan Cake with Caramel Sauce pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate. For a refreshing twist, you could also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The combination of warm cake and cold ice cream creates an indulgent dessert experience. Furthermore, if you’re serving the cake at a party, it makes an excellent centerpiece that will surely impress your guests.
Tips
- To save time, make the caramel sauce a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to use it, gently reheat it.
- Don’t have buttermilk? No problem! Simply mix ¾ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar, and let it sit for 5 minutes before adding it to your batter.
- For a stronger banana flavor, consider adding an extra half banana to the batter.
- Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter will intensify their flavor and give your cake an even nuttier taste.
Timing Information
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 10
Nutritional Information (Per Slice)
- Calories: 480
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 220mg
Conclusion
This Banana Pecan Cake with Caramel Sauce is a crowd-pleaser that brings together the sweetness of bananas, the crunch of pecans, and the richness of homemade caramel. It’s not just delicious but also visually stunning, with its layers and garnishes. Whether you’re looking for a dessert to impress your guests or a treat to indulge in at home, this cake will certainly hit the mark. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips, you’ll have a dessert that is as beautiful as it is delicious.
FAQ
Q: Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
A: Absolutely! Walnuts can be a perfect substitute for pecans if you prefer a slightly different flavor or texture.
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cake layers (without frosting) for up to two months. Be sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to use them, thaw completely before frosting.
Q: How long will the cake stay fresh?
A: The cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you refrigerate it, it can last up to five days, but be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best texture.
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