Description
This moist and flavorful Banana Pecan Caramel Cake combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with crunchy pecans and a rich caramel drizzle. Perfect for dessert or special occasions, this cake features tender layers with a delightful balance of textures and tastes.
Ingredients
Scale
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
Add-ins & Toppings
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan to prevent sticking and ensure even baking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt; set this mixture aside for later incorporation.
- Cream butter and sugars: Using a mixer, cream the softened butter with granulated sugar and brown sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy, indicating proper aeration for a tender cake.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Beat in the eggs one at a time to fully incorporate them, then stir in the vanilla extract for added flavor depth.
- Combine wet and dry mixtures: Gradually add the dry flour mixture alternately with the buttermilk to the creamed butter mixture, beginning and ending with the flour mixture, to achieve a smooth and consistent batter.
- Fold in bananas and pecans: Gently fold the mashed bananas and chopped pecans into the batter, distributing them evenly without overmixing to maintain cake texture.
- Bake the cake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and decorate: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top before serving.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are ripe for maximum sweetness and moisture.
- Use room temperature eggs and butter for better mixing and texture.
- Check doneness with a toothpick to avoid under or overbaking.
- Caramel sauce can be store-bought or homemade depending on preference.
- For a nut-free version, omit pecans or substitute with seeds.
