A perfect blend of rich flavours and textures, this Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is a delightful and decadent dessert.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
-All-purpose flour: 3 cups
-Baking powder: 1 ½ tsp
-Baking soda: 1 tsp
-Salt: ½ tsp
-Unsalted butter, softened: 1 cup
-Granulated sugar: 1 ½ cups
-Brown sugar, packed: 1 cup
Large eggs: 3
-Vanilla extract: 2 tsp
-Mashed ripe bananas (about 3 large bananas): 1 ½ cups
-Buttermilk: 1 cup
-Chopped pecans: 1 cup
For the Caramel Frosting:
-Unsalted butter: 1 cup
-Packed light brown sugar: 2 cups
-Heavy cream: ½ cup
-Powdered sugar, sifted: 4 cups
-Vanilla extract: 2 tsp
-Chopped pecans (for garnish): 1 cup
Directions:
Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour three 9-inch round cake pans.
Prepare the Cake Batter:
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together until light and fluffy.
Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
Gradually add the flour mixture, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture.
Fold in the chopped pecans.
Bake the Cake:
Divide the batter evenly among the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
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 10 minutes, then turn them out onto wire racks to cool completely.
Prepare the Caramel Frosting:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
Add the brown sugar and cream. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Gradually beat in the powdered sugar and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy. If the frosting is too thick, add a little more cream until the desired consistency is reached.
Assemble the Cake:
Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a generous amount of caramel frosting over the top.
Repeat with the second and third layers. Frost the sides of the cake with the remaining caramel frosting.
Garnish with chopped pecans. Allow the frosting to set slightly before serving.
Notes:
Ensure your bananas are very ripe for the best flavour and texture.
Toasting the pecans before adding them to the batter can enhance their flavour.
Enjoy this delicious Banana Pecan Caramel Cake for a truly decadent treat! 🍌🍰✨
