Chocolate Banana Caramel Cake – The Ultimate Dessert Indulgence

Introduction

Indulge in the ultimate dessert experience with this Chocolate Banana Caramel Cake. Layers of rich chocolate sponge, creamy banana filling, and gooey caramel sauce come together in perfect harmony. Topped with crunchy pecans and fresh banana slices, this cake is as impressive to look at as it is to taste. Ideal for special occasions or simply spoiling yourself, let’s dive into this decadent creation!

Ingredients

For the Chocolate Cake Layers:

• 2 cups (250g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ¾ cups (350g) granulated sugar
• ¾ cup (75g) cocoa powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• 1 ½ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk or whole milk
• ½ cup (120ml) vegetable oil
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup (240ml) hot water or brewed coffee

For the Banana Filling:

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• ¼ cup (50g) sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Caramel Sauce:

• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 6 tbsp (90g) unsalted butter
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• A pinch of sea salt

For Garnish:

• 1 banana, sliced
• ½ cup (50g) chopped pecans

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chocolate Cake Layers

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease three 8-inch round cake pans. Line the bottoms with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. Add the eggs, buttermilk, vegetable oil, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
4. Gradually stir in the hot water or coffee until the batter is well combined (it will be thin).
5. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and bake for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Cool the cakes in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Step 2: Make the Banana Filling

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the mashed bananas, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely.

Step 3: Prepare the Caramel Sauce

1. In a saucepan, melt the granulated sugar over medium heat, stirring constantly until it turns golden brown.
2. Add the butter, one cube at a time, and stir until fully incorporated.
3. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously (be cautious as it will bubble up).
4. Remove from heat, add the vanilla extract and sea salt, and let the caramel cool to room temperature.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

1. Place the first chocolate cake layer on a serving plate or cake stand. Spread half of the banana filling evenly on top.
2. Add the second cake layer and spread the remaining banana filling over it.
3. Place the third cake layer on top.

Step 5: Decorate the Cake

1. Drizzle the caramel sauce generously over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides.
2. Garnish with fresh banana slices and chopped pecans for a decorative and crunchy finish.

Pro Tips

• For added flavor, use coffee instead of water in the cake batter.
• Chill the cake before slicing to get clean and even layers.
• Dip banana slices in lemon juice to prevent browning before using them as garnish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
• Enjoy with a cup of espresso or hot cocoa for the perfect cozy treat.
• Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Conclusion

This Chocolate Banana Caramel Cake is the perfect dessert to satisfy your cravings. From the moist chocolate layers to the creamy banana filling and rich caramel drizzle, every bite is a celebration of flavors and textures. Whether for a birthday, holiday, or a weekend treat, this cake will leave everyone asking for seconds. Try it today and savor the decadence!

Happy baking!