Introduction
This Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake Recipe combines ripe bananas, crunchy walnuts, and rich caramel into a simple yet decadent dessert. Perfect for using up overripe bananas, this cake delivers moist texture and comforting flavors in every bite. For another easy treat, try this easy Pumpkin Bread or explore Penuche Fudge for more sweet inspiration.
Ingredients
This Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake Recipe creates a moist, fragrant cake with deep banana flavor, crunchy walnuts, and a rich caramel swirl that makes every slice irresistible.
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 1/2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (canola preferred)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, room temperature
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
- 2 tbsp water (for caramel)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream, room temperature (min 34% fat)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cold (for caramel)
- Pinch of salt (for caramel)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
Timing
| Prep Time | 20 minutes |
| Cook Time | 45 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour 5 minutes |
Context: This Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake Recipe is about 20% faster than similar recipes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 — Prepare Your Ingredients and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
Ensure your bananas are very ripe with brown spots for maximum sweetness and moisture in your Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake Recipe.
Nutritional Information
| Calories | 385 |
| Protein | 6g |
| Carbohydrates | 52g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 210mg |
Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.
Healthier Alternatives
- Whole wheat flour — Adds fiber and a nutty flavor that complements the walnuts in this Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake Recipe.
- Greek yogurt — A protein-rich substitute for oil that keeps the cake moist while adding a subtle tang.
- Coconut sugar — A lower-glycemic alternative to refined sugar with caramel notes that enhance the cake’s flavor.
- Almond flour — Creates a gluten-free, lower-carb version with a delicate nutty taste.
- Coconut oil — A dairy-free fat replacement that adds a light tropical aroma to the cake.
- Date paste — Natural sweetener that reduces added sugars while contributing to the caramel flavor profile.
- Applesauce — Cuts fat content while maintaining moisture and adding natural sweetness to complement the bananas.
- Sea salt reduction — Low-sodium option that allows the natural sweetness of bananas and caramel to shine.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair this Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream for a classic dessert combination.
- Serve warm slices alongside a freshly brewed cup of coffee or chai tea for a comforting afternoon treat.
- Perfect for potlucks and family gatherings, this cake travels well and serves a crowd.
- Drizzle extra caramel sauce over individual portions and garnish with toasted walnuts for an elegant presentation.
- For special occasions, add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
- This cake makes an excellent dessert for holiday meals, particularly during autumn and winter celebrations.
The rich flavors of this Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake develop even more when allowed to sit for a few hours, making it an excellent make-ahead dessert option.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Mistake: Using underripe bananas, which lack sweetness and moisture. Fix: Use very ripe, spotty bananas for maximum flavor and a tender crumb.
- Mistake: Overmixing the batter, which develops gluten and makes the cake tough. Fix: Gently fold in dry ingredients just until no flour streaks remain.
- Mistake: Adding walnuts directly to the batter, causing them to sink. Fix: Toss walnuts in a little flour before folding them in to help them stay suspended.
- Mistake: Pouring caramel sauce over a hot cake, making it soak in and disappear. Fix: Let the cake cool completely so the caramel forms a beautiful, distinct layer.
- Mistake: Baking in a pan that’s too dark, which can lead to over-browned edges. Fix: Use a light-colored metal pan and reduce oven temperature by 25°F if using dark metal.
- Mistake: Not properly creaming butter and sugar, resulting in a dense texture. Fix: Beat the butter and sugar for 3-5 minutes until light and fluffy to incorporate air.
- Mistake: Opening the oven door too early, causing the cake to fall. Fix: Avoid opening the door until the last 10 minutes of baking to check for doneness.
- Mistake: Using a thin, watery caramel that drips off the cake. Fix: Cook your caramel until it reaches a soft-ball stage (235–240°F) for a thicker, clingy consistency.
- Mistake: Skipping the step of toasting the walnuts, leaving them bland and soft. Fix: Toast walnuts in a dry pan for 5-7 minutes to enhance their nutty flavor and crunch.
- Mistake: Not greasing and flouring the pan properly, leading to a stuck cake. Fix: Thoroughly grease the pan, line it with parchment paper, and dust with flour for a clean release.
Storing Tips
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Refrigerate promptly to maintain freshness.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm slices in a 300°F oven for 10–15 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Always cool your Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake completely before storing to prevent condensation and sogginess.
Conclusion
This Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake Recipe is a perfect treat for any occasion. We hope you love making it as much as we do! For more delicious desserts, try our Chocolate Bourbon Pecan Pie Recipe or Cheesecake Stuffed Baked Apples Recipe. Don’t forget to leave a comment with your results and subscribe for more sweet recipes!
Print
Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake
A moist and flavorful banana cake featuring ripe bananas and crunchy walnuts, layered with rich caramel sauce and topped with a smooth cream cheese frosting. This cake combines natural sweetness with a delightful texture contrast, perfect for celebrations or special occasions.
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 1x
Ingredients
- 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 1/2 large ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (canola preferred)
- 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
- 3 large eggs, room temperature
- 1 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, room temperature
- 1 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar (for caramel)
- 2 tbsp water (for caramel)
- 1/4 cup heavy cream, room temperature (min 34% fat)
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, cold (for caramel)
- Pinch of salt (for caramel)
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened (for frosting)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (for frosting)
- 3 cups powdered sugar (for frosting)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for frosting)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- In a large bowl, beat butter, oil, and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in vanilla extract and Greek yogurt until combined.
- Fold in mashed bananas and chopped walnuts.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Divide batter evenly between prepared pans and bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes, then turn out onto wire racks to cool completely.
- To make caramel sauce, combine sugar and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook without stirring until sugar turns amber in color.
- Remove from heat and carefully whisk in heavy cream, butter, and salt until smooth. Let cool to room temperature.
- For the frosting, beat cream cheese and butter until smooth. Gradually add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fluffy.
- Place one cake layer on a serving plate. Spread a layer of caramel sauce over it, then frost with cream cheese frosting.
- Top with the second cake layer, spread remaining caramel sauce, and frost the top and sides of the cake.
- Chill the cake for at least 1 hour before serving to set the frosting and caramel.
Notes
Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and moisture. The caramel sauce can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator; warm slightly before using. Chilling the cake helps the frosting and caramel set nicely for cleaner slices.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Method: Dessert
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 40g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
FAQs
Can I make this Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake this cake a day in advance. Store it in an airtight container at room temperature. The flavors often meld and improve, making it even more luscious.
What is the best way to store leftovers of this cake?
Keep any leftover Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake in an airtight container. It will stay fresh at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I substitute the walnuts with a different nut?
Yes, you can use pecans or almonds instead of walnuts. This substitution will still yield a deliciously moist and flavorful Luscious Walnut Banana Caramel Cake.