Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake ๐๐ฐ
This decadent Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is packed with rich banana flavor, crunchy pecans, and sweet caramel sauce. Perfect for special occasions or as a comforting dessert!
Ingredients:
- 3 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup chopped pecans, plus extra for garnish
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
Directions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch cake pans, ensuring the sides and bottoms are well-coated.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugars:
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy (about 3-4 minutes).
- Add eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in vanilla extract and mashed bananas until well incorporated.
- Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
- Gradually add the flour mixture to the banana mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Start and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
- Fold in the 1 cup of chopped pecans.
- Bake the Cakes:
- Divide the batter evenly between the two prepared cake pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
- Let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before turning them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- Assemble the Cake:
- Once the cakes have cooled, spread a layer of caramel sauce on top of one of the cakes.
- Place the second cake on top and generously spread more caramel sauce over the top. Drizzle extra caramel over the cake for added sweetness.
- Garnish with additional chopped pecans on top.
Tips:
- Buttermilk Substitute: If you donโt have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup of milk. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Pecans: For added flavor, toast the pecans before folding them into the batter. This will enhance their nutty taste.
- Caramel Sauce: You can use store-bought caramel sauce, but homemade caramel can take this cake to the next level.
- Storing the Cake: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
FAQs:
1. Can I make this cake in advance?
Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead. Just wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them at room temperature. Assemble with caramel sauce before serving.
2. Can I use walnuts instead of pecans?
Absolutely! Walnuts work just as well and provide a similar crunch and flavor.
3. How do I store the leftover cake?
Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the cake for up to 2 months.
4. Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure itโs a 1:1 substitute to keep the consistency right.
Enjoy this indulgent cake with a cup of tea or coffee for the ultimate sweet treat!