The Ultimate Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake Recipe – Perfect for Special Occasions

If you’re looking for the perfect dessert to wow your guests or simply indulge yourself, this Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake is exactly what you need. Imagine biting into soft layers of banana-flavored cake, studded with crunchy toasted pecans, and draped in a silky caramel frosting. The marriage of ripe bananas, rich caramel, and nutty pecans creates a flavor explosion in every bite, making this cake a standout at any gathering.

Photo byRecipes By Lisa

This recipe became a favorite in my kitchen after I discovered it on the amazing Facebook Page, Recipes by Lisa. Her collection of indulgent, crowd-pleasing desserts is perfect for anyone who loves a good bake. I couldn’t wait to share this delectable cake with you all!

Banana cakes have a long history of being the ultimate comfort dessert. Whether it’s a humble banana bread or a rich, layered cake like this one, bananas lend sweetness, moisture, and a nostalgic warmth that’s hard to beat. Pecans, meanwhile, bring a Southern touch to the cake, adding texture and a toasty richness. And let’s not forget the caramel! Smooth, buttery, and golden, caramel ties the whole cake together with a decadent finish.

The Recipe

Here’s how you can make this easy homemade Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake in your own kitchen. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• ½ cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup mashed ripe bananas (about 2-3 bananas)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 cup chopped pecans (toasted)

For the Caramel Frosting:

• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 cup brown sugar
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 4 cups powdered sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of salt

For Garnish:

• Extra caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Chopped pecans

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
2. Make the Cake Batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon. Set aside for later.
3. Cream Butter and Sugars: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract for a lovely, fragrant base.
4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually alternate adding the dry flour mixture and buttermilk to the banana mixture, beginning and ending with the flour. Gently fold in the toasted pecans for extra crunch.
5. Bake the Cake: Evenly divide the batter between the two prepared pans. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pans for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
6. Prepare the Caramel Frosting: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and heavy cream, bringing the mixture to a gentle boil. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, then remove from heat. Let it cool slightly before gradually beating in the powdered sugar until smooth. Add vanilla extract and a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
7. Assemble the Cake: Place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a generous layer of caramel frosting on top. Place the second cake layer and frost the entire cake. For the final touch, drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with chopped pecans. It’s a showstopper!
8. Serve and Enjoy: Slice into this heavenly cake and savor the delightful combination of flavors. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of sweetness, crunch, and caramel goodness.

Tips & Variations:

• For a lighter version, substitute some of the butter with applesauce in the cake batter.
• Make it gluten-free by using a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.
• Add a dash of rum or bourbon to the caramel frosting for a boozy kick.

Final Thoughts

This cake is sure to impress with its layers of flavor and visual appeal. Whether it’s a birthday, holiday gathering, or just because, this Banana Pecan Caramel Layer Cake will bring a smile to everyone’s face.

Did you enjoy this recipe? Make sure to follow me for more delicious cake ideas, and don’t forget to check out Recipes by Lisa for more tasty treats. If you try this recipe, leave a comment and let me know how it turned out!