Banana Walnut Caramel Pecan Cake

Name: Banana Walnut Caramel Pecan Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 12 servings
Ingredients: 4 ripe bananas, mashed; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 cup walnuts, chopped; 1 cup sugar; 1/4 cup water; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup toasted pecans, chopped

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

This delicious Banana Walnut Caramel Pecan Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion. Moist banana cake is blended with crunchy walnuts, topped with a rich caramel sauce and adorned with toasted pecans, creating a heavenly combination of flavors and textures. This cake is not only delightful to the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, making it a showstopper at your next gathering.

Created by

Sienna Brooks

Last updated on 2025-11-23T14:09:00.236Z

This cake has been a family favorite for years, cherished for its rich flavors and delightful texture.

A Perfect Balance of Flavors

The Banana Walnut Caramel Pecan Cake is a delightful blend of flavors that come together to create an unforgettable experience. The sweetness of ripe bananas is perfectly complemented by the nutty crunch of walnuts, while the rich caramel sauce adds a luxurious touch to each bite. The toasted pecans on top not only enhance the flavor but also provide a pleasing texture, making this cake a savory treat that stands out from the crowd.

Every layer of this cake tells a story; from the moist and tender crumb of the banana cake to the gooey, luscious caramel glaze, it's designed to please all senses. The warm, nutty aroma wafting from the oven while it bakes is simply irresistible, setting the stage for a delicious sweet ending to your meal.

Ideal for Any Occasion

This cake isn’t just a dessert; it's a centerpiece for celebrations. Whether you are hosting a birthday party, a holiday gathering, or just a casual get-together, the Banana Walnut Caramel Pecan Cake is sure to impress your guests. Its beautiful presentation makes it a showstopper, while the delightful combination of flavors appeals to a wide range of palates.

Moreover, this cake is versatile. You can enjoy it as a simple afternoon treat with coffee or elevate it for special events by adding garnishes like fresh fruit or whipped cream. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure the best results when making this cake, it’s crucial to use ripe bananas. The more speckles and browns on the skin, the sweeter and more flavorful your bananas will be. Overripe bananas are not only easier to mash but also contribute to the overall moistness of the cake.

Also, be wary of overmixing the batter. Once you combine the dry ingredients with the banana mixture, mix just until incorporated to achieve a light and fluffy texture. This small tip can make a big difference in the cake's final result, ensuring it rises beautifully and maintains a tender crumb.

Ingredients

Cake Ingredients

4 ripe bananas, mashed
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup walnuts, chopped

Caramel Sauce Ingredients

1 cup sugar
1/4 cup water
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup unsalted butter

Topping Ingredients

1 cup toasted pecans, chopped

Make sure to have all ingredients at room temperature for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Cake Batter

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
In a large bowl, cream together the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla and mashed bananas.
In another bowl, combine the flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined. Fold in the walnuts.

Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared cake pan.
Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Make the Caramel Sauce

While the cake is cooling, combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Stop stirring and let it boil until it turns a golden amber color.
Remove from heat and carefully stir in the heavy cream and butter until smooth. Let it cool slightly.

Assemble the Cake

Once the cake has completely cooled, place it on a serving platter.
Drizzle the caramel sauce over the top and sprinkle with toasted pecans.
Slice and serve the cake, enjoying the rich flavors!

Serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy!

Storage Recommendations

To keep your Banana Walnut Caramel Pecan Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you anticipate it lasting longer, consider refrigerating it, where it can be enjoyed for up to a week. Just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

If you’ve baked this cake ahead of time, you can freeze it as well. Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. This way, you can have a delicious dessert on hand whenever cravings strike!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving this decadent cake, consider pairing it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. The cool sweetness of the ice cream or the light creaminess of whipped cream perfectly balances the rich flavors of the cake, creating a delightful contrast that can elevate your dessert experience.

Additionally, you could serve it with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce for those who prefer an indulgent treat. Garnishing with sliced bananas or more toasted pecans can also enhance both the flavor and the presentation. This versatile cake knows how to shine, no matter how you choose to serve it!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other nuts instead of walnuts?

Absolutely! Pecans or almonds make excellent substitutes.

→ Is this cake suitable for freezing?

Yes, you can freeze the cake without the caramel topping for up to three months.