Introduction to Salted Caramel Banana Cake
Why Banana Cake with Salted Caramel is a Game Changer
If you’re a fan of sweet, indulgent treats, then salted caramel banana cake is about to become your new favorite dessert. This delightful recipe combines the rich, moist texture of banana cake with the heavenly flavor of salted caramel, creating a cake that’s utterly irresistible.
Bananas bring natural sweetness and moisture to the table. Incorporating them into the cake provides not just flavor but also a lovely lightness, making it a go-to choice for a variety of occasions. But what truly elevates this cake is the lavish salted caramel cream cheese frosting. The contrast between the sweet caramel and a hint of salt enhances the overall taste profile, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the often-overlooked banana cake in a whole new light.
Not only is this cake incredibly delicious, but it’s also remarkably easy to whip up. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can impress friends and family at your next gathering. So, whether you’re hosting a weekend brunch or celebrating a special occasion, salted caramel banana cake is sure to be the star of the show!
For more details on baking, check out resources like Joy of Baking and Serious Eats for tips and tricks.
Ingredients for Salted Caramel Banana Cake
Baking a delightful salted caramel banana cake starts with the right ingredients. It’s incredible how simple staples can create something so delicious!
Essential Ingredients for the Banana Cake
To craft a moist and flavorful banana cake, you’ll need the following essentials:
- Mashed Bananas: About 220 g, roughly two large bananas, provide natural sweetness and moisture.
- Brown Butter: 90 g for depth and nuttiness; this is a game changer!
- Light Brown Sugar: 125 g adds a lovely caramel flavor.
- Egg: 1 large, preferably at room temperature, binds the cake.
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon enhances the flavor.
- Sour Cream: 90 g ensures the cake remains tender.
- All-Purpose Flour: 150 g for the cake's structure.
- Baking Powder: 1 ½ teaspoon gives it that fluffy height.
- Salt and Ground Cinnamon: ½ teaspoon and ¾ tsp, respectively, for balance and warmth.
- Crushed Pecans (optional): 56 g adds a delightful crunch.
Ingredients for the Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
Once your cake is ready, it’s time to whip up the salted caramel cream cheese frosting. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cream Cheese: 150 g, softened, for a rich and creamy texture.
- Brown Butter: 65 g, adds that extra layer of flavor.
- Powdered Sugar: 150 g for sweetness and a smooth consistency.
- Salted Caramel Sauce: 45 g, because we can never have too much caramel!
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a decadent salted caramel banana cake that’ll impress everyone! For further inspiration and tips, you can check out this banana baking guide for additional ideas.
Step-by-Step Preparation of Salted Caramel Banana Cake
Brown the butter for depth of flavor
Let’s kick off this delicious journey with the magic of browned butter. This step is crucial because it adds a rich, nutty depth to your salted caramel banana cake that simply can’t be replicated! In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 198 grams of unsalted butter. Stir it occasionally until it transforms into a lovely amber color and small brown specks start to appear. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once it’s ready, transfer the butter to a bowl and pop it in the freezer for about 5 minutes to cool down—this will help you use it in the cake batter later.
Prepare the banana cake batter
While the butter cools, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 7-inch springform pan and dust it with sugar to prevent sticking. Now, it’s time for the stars of our cake: the bananas! Mash approximately 220 grams (about 2 large bananas) in a mixing bowl until smooth. Add in the cooled brown butter (90g), 125g of light brown sugar, one room-temperature egg, a teaspoon of vanilla, and 90g of sour cream. Whisk everything together until you have a smooth mix. Next, fold in 150g of all-purpose flour, along with 1½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ¾ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. If you want to make it even more delicious, toss in some crushed pecans (56g) for extra texture!
Bake the banana cake to perfection
Pour your beautifully mixed batter into the prepared pan, ensuring it's evenly spread out. Bake this delightful concoction for 35-40 minutes. To check its doneness, stick a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your salted caramel banana cake is ready to dazzle! Once it’s baked to golden perfection, let it cool completely in the pan on a wire rack before moving on to the frosting.
Make the salted caramel cream cheese frosting
While the cake cools, let’s whip up that heavenly frosting. In a mixing bowl, beat together 150g of room-temperature cream cheese and the remaining brown butter (65g) until light and fluffy—this should take about 1-2 minutes. Gradually add in 150g of powdered sugar until well incorporated, then fold in 45g of salted caramel sauce for that melt-in-your-mouth flavor.
Frost the cake and add the finishing touches
Once your cake has cooled, it's time for the best part—frosting! Generously spread the caramel cream cheese frosting over the top of the cake. For an extra touch, swirl some additional salted caramel sauce on top. Slice, serve, and enjoy each moist bite of your salted caramel banana cake. It's a charming delight that’s perfect for any occasion, or even just a well-deserved treat for yourself!
If you're looking for more delightful recipes, check out this amazing baking blog or explore how different flavors combine well in desserts on this food fusion site. Happy baking!
Creative Variations on Salted Caramel Banana Cake
Nutty Caramel Banana Cake Variations
For a delightful twist on the classic salted caramel banana cake, consider incorporating chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds into the batter. Not only do they add a wonderful crunch, but they also elevate the flavor profile. You can even experiment with different nut butters, such as almond butter, in the frosting. For an extra indulgent layer, drizzle some nut-based caramel sauce atop the frosting or sprinkle on toasted coconut flakes for a tropical touch.
Gluten-Free Options for the Salted Caramel Banana Cake
If you're looking to enjoy this scrumptious dessert without gluten, swap the all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend. Be sure to use a blend that includes xanthan gum for the best texture. You can also try using oat flour, which adds a subtle sweetness that complements the bananas beautifully. Another tip is to double-check your ingredients for any hidden gluten, especially the baking powder and caramel sauce. For more ideas on gluten-free baking, you can reference trusted resources like Gluten-Free Girl.
These creative variations will ensure that your salted caramel banana cake remains a hit at any gathering!
Baking Tips and Notes for Salted Caramel Banana Cake
Key Tips for Achieving Moist Cake
To ensure your salted caramel banana cake is irresistibly moist, use ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum flavor and moisture. Incorporating sources of fat—like sour cream and brown butter—will lend an extra layer of softness. Don't skip on mixing; whisk your wet ingredients vigorously to aerate the batter, enhancing its texture.
How to Successfully Make Brown Butter
Making brown butter is simple but requires attention. Heat unsalted butter over medium heat, stirring frequently until it becomes a beautiful amber color with tiny brown flecks, usually within 5-8 minutes. Keep a close eye, as it can burn quickly! For a foolproof guide, check out this resource to master this technique. Once done, cool it slightly before adding to your cake batter for the best results!
Serving Suggestions for Salted Caramel Banana Cake
How to Present the Cake Beautifully
To showcase your salted caramel banana cake, start with a simple, elegant presentation. Place the cake on a decorative cake stand or a marble slab for a sophisticated touch. Drizzle additional salted caramel over the top in a swirling pattern, and sprinkle some crushed pecans or banana slices to highlight the flavors. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and freshness. For an extra touch, consider serving slices on dainty dessert plates, accompanied by a small cup of additional caramel sauce for drizzling.
Ideal Pairings for the Cake
This cake isn’t just a standalone treat; it pairs beautifully with various accompaniments:
- Coffee or Tea: A rich coffee or herbal tea brings out the sweet and salty notes.
- Ice Cream: Vanilla or caramel ice cream makes a delightful contrast to the cake’s texture.
- Fresh Fruit: Serve it with some seasonal berries or sliced apples for a refreshing balance.
- Creamy Dairy: A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of clotted cream elevates each bite.
These pairings create a wonderful dining experience, making your salted caramel banana cake the highlight of any gathering! For more ideas, check out The Spruce Eats.
Time Breakdown for Salted Caramel Banana Cake
Preparation Time
Get ready for a delightful baking experience! You’ll need approximately 40 minutes to gather ingredients, prepare your cake batter, and whip up that luscious frosting.
Baking Time
Patience is key while your cake bakes. The cake will require around 35-40 minutes in the oven to reach that perfect level of moistness.
Total Time
From start to finish, you’ll invest about 1 hour and 20 minutes in creating this delicious salted caramel banana cake. It’s definitely worth every minute when you taste the final product!
For more recipe guidance, check out resources like Epicurious or visit Serious Eats for seasonal baking tips!
Nutritional Facts for Salted Caramel Banana Cake
Calories per slice
Each slice of our salted caramel banana cake contains approximately 562 calories. This makes it a delightful indulgence without overwhelming your daily caloric intake, especially when shared with friends!
Nutritional breakdown
This delicious cake offers a balanced mix of nutrients, featuring:
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Protein: 5g
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 10g
- Sugar: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 99mg
While it’s a treat, moderation is key! Always opt for high-quality ingredients to enhance flavor while keeping nutrition in check. For more on healthy baking alternatives, check out Healthline's article on baking tips.
Enjoy this salted caramel banana cake as an occasional treat that satisfies dessert cravings while offering a touch of nutritional benefits, too!
FAQs about Salted Caramel Banana Cake
What can I substitute for ripe bananas?
If you don’t have ripe bananas, you can use applesauce, which provides moisture and sweetness. Alternatively, mashed avocados or pureed pumpkin can also work, giving the cake a unique flavor twist while keeping it moist.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! This salted caramel banana cake can be baked a day in advance. Just be sure to cool it completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and store it at room temperature. Frost it on the day you plan to serve for the best flavor and appearance.
How do I store leftover banana cake?
Leftover cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag; they can last up to three months in the freezer. Simply thaw at room temperature when you’re ready to indulge again!
For more tips on cake storage, check out resources from The Kitchn.
Conclusion on Salted Caramel Banana Cake
Why you need to try making this cake today!
If you’re looking for a dessert that’s both delicious and unique, the salted caramel banana cake is an absolute must-try! Its moist texture, combined with the creamy salted caramel frosting, creates a flavor explosion that you simply can’t resist. Give it a shot today for an unforgettable treat!
Salted Caramel Banana Cake
Equipment
- small saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- hand mixer
- 7" springform pan
Ingredients
Brown Butter
- 198 g unsalted butter (¾ c. + 2 tbsp.)
Banana Cake
- 220 g banana mashed (~2 large bananas)
- 90 g brown butter (¼ c. + 2 tbsp. + 1 tsp.)
- 125 g light brown sugar (½ c. + 2 tbsp.)
- 1 egg room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 90 g sour cream room temperature (¼ c. + 2 tbsp.)
- 150 g all purpose flour (1 ¼ c.)
- 1.5 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.75 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 56 g crushed pecans optional (½ c.)
Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
- 150 g cream cheese room temperature (⅔ c.)
- 65 g brown butter (4 ½ tbsp.)
- 150 g powdered sugar (1 ¼ c.)
- 45 g salted caramel sauce (3 tbsp.)
Instructions
Brown Butter
- In a small saucepan set over medium heat, brown the butter. Stir the butter occasionally until it turns amber in color and develops little brown specks.
- Transfer the butter to a small bowl and set it in the freezer for 5 minutes to chill.
Banana Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F / 175°C. Butter a 7" springform pan, then coat it with sugar.
- In a medium sized mixing bowl, mash up the banana until no large chunks remain.
- Add in 90g of the brown butter. Leave the remaining brown butter out at room temperature until you're ready to make the frosting.
- Add in the sugar, egg, vanilla, and sour cream. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is well combined.
- Add in the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. Whisk together until only a few flour streaks remain. Add in the chopped pecans, then mix just until no flour streaks remain.
- Pour the cake batter into the prepared cake pan. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center of the cake comes out clean.
Salted Caramel Cream Cheese Frosting
- Add the cream cheese and remaining brown butter to a medium sized mixing bowl. Use a hand mixer (or stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment) to beat the ingredients together until the mixture is light and fluffy (1-2 min.).
- Beat in the powdered sugar until well combined, then add in the salted caramel sauce and beat for an additional minute.
- Once the cake has fully cooled to room temperature, top it with the cream cheese frosting. Swirl some more salted caramel sauce on top, then slice, serve, and enjoy!
Leave a Reply