Banana Pecan Caramel Drip Cake
If you’re looking for a cake that’s as delicious as it is beautiful, the Banana Pecan Caramel Drip Cake is the one for you! This delightful dessert features moist banana cake layered with creamy frosting, crunchy pecans, and a luscious caramel drip that makes it irresistible. Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or just a sweet treat, this cake will certainly impress your family and friends.
Why make this recipe?
This cake combines the warm flavors of ripe bananas 🍌, crunchy pecans 🌰, and rich caramel 🍯, creating a harmonious blend that is hard to resist. Not only does it taste amazing, but it also looks stunning with its beautiful drip effect. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding.
How to prepare Banana Pecan Caramel Drip Cake
Ingredients:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) 🧈
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 large eggs 🥚
- 3 ripe bananas (mashed) 🍌
- 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 cups cream cheese (softened) 🧀
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened) 🧈
- 3 cups powdered sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup sugar
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- Pinch of salt
- Fresh banana slices 🍌
- Pecan halves 🌰
- Chopped walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs and mix well.
- Stir in the mashed bananas, sour cream (or yogurt), and vanilla extract until combined.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just incorporated. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat together the softened cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add the powdered sugar and mix well. Finally, add the vanilla extract and mix until fluffy.
- In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the sugar and 6 tbsp of butter, cooking until the sugar melts and turns golden. Slowly add the heavy cream (beware of splattering), and stir until smooth. Add a pinch of salt, then let it cool slightly.
- To assemble, place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of frosting on top. Place the second cake layer on top and frost the sides and top of the cake.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Top with fresh banana slices, pecan halves, and optional chopped walnuts.
How to serve Banana Pecan Caramel Drip Cake
Slice the cake into generous pieces and serve it on dessert plates. It pairs wonderfully with a cup of coffee ☕ or a scoop of vanilla ice cream 🍦.
How to store Banana Pecan Caramel Drip Cake
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Ensure to keep the caramel drizzle covered to prevent it from hardening.
Tips for preparing Banana Pecan Caramel Drip Cake
- Use ripe bananas for the best flavor and moisture.
- Allow the cake layers to cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the frosting.
- If the caramel sauce is too thick, you can reheat it gently to achieve the desired pouring consistency.
Variations
- Use chocolate frosting instead of cream cheese for a chocolatey twist.
- Add a layer of chopped pecans or chocolate chips within the cake layers for extra flavor and texture.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Yes! You can bake the cake layers a day ahead and store them in the fridge. Frost on the day of serving for best results.
Q: How do I make the caramel sauce?
A: The caramel sauce is made by melting sugar with butter and then adding heavy cream. Remember to be cautious as it can get very hot!
Q: Can I freeze the cake?
A: Yes! You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Just frost it after thawing.
Now, get ready to impress everyone with this heavenly Banana Pecan Caramel Drip Cake! 🍰✨