Step-by-step instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a cake pan to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed bananas, softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Mix until everything is well blended.
- Add the eggs, one by one, ensuring that each is mixed in thoroughly before proceeding to the next.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually incorporate this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined—don’t overmix!
- Gently fold in the chopped pecans, adding a nice crunch to the soft cake.
- Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown.
- Allow the cake to cool for a few minutes, then drizzle generously with caramel sauce before serving.
Best ways to enjoy it
Once your Caramel Banana Pecan Cake is out of the oven and drizzled with caramel, the possibilities are endless! Serve it warm for a delightful contrast with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or enjoy it as a delicious breakfast treat alongside a cup of coffee. For a festive touch, top each slice with whipped cream and a sprinkle of chopped pecans.
How to store
To keep your delicious cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you prefer to keep it longer, you can freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer-safe bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice anytime you crave its goodness!
Helpful cooking tips
Here are a few tips to ensure your cake turns out perfectly every time:
- Make sure your bananas are overripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Don’t skip greasing and flouring the pan; it really helps with the release!
- If you like extra caramel flavor, consider adding some into the batter before baking for an even richer taste.
Creative twists
Feel free to modify the recipe to suit your taste! You can substitute half the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor. For a chocolatey touch, mix in some chocolate chips along with the pecans. Experiment with different nuts or even cinnamon for a spiced version!
Common questions
How long does it take to prep this cake?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, with a baking time of 30-35 minutes, making it a quick option for a sweet treat.
What can I use instead of pecans?
If you’re not a fan of pecans, walnuts or even almonds make great substitutes.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes! You can use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour to keep it gluten-free.
Enjoy making your own Caramel Banana Pecan Cake, and may it bring warmth and sweetness to your home just as it has to mine!
