Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cake: A Decadent Delight

Emily

July 19, 2025

Very few desserts can boast the perfect blend of flavors like this banana caramel peanut butter cake. It’s a masterpiece that combines the sweetness of bananas, the richness of caramel, and the creamy depth of peanut butter into one unforgettable treat.

Why This Recipe Works

  • The combination of ripe bananas and peanut butter creates a moist and flavorful base that’s irresistibly delicious.
  • Homemade caramel sauce adds a layer of sweetness and texture that store-bought versions can’t match.
  • Peanut butter frosting is the perfect creamy topping that complements the cake’s flavors without overpowering them.
  • This cake is as easy to make as it is delicious, requiring no fancy techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.
  • It’s a versatile recipe that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion.

Ingredients

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 ripe bananas, mashed
  • 1/2 cup buttermilk
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/2 cup peanut butter
  • 1 cup caramel sauce

Equipment Needed

  • 9-inch round cake pan
  • Mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Rubber spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

Banana Caramel Peanut Butter Cake

Preheat and Prepare

Preheat your oven to 350°F and grease a 9-inch round cake pan. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, and salt. This ensures your cake will have a uniform texture without any pockets of baking soda.

Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, making your cake lighter. Tip: Make sure your butter is at room temperature to achieve the perfect consistency.

Add Eggs and Bananas

Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the mashed bananas, buttermilk, and vanilla extract. The bananas should be very ripe for the best flavor and moisture. Tip: If your bananas aren’t ripe enough, you can speed up the process by baking them in their skins at 300°F for about 15 minutes.

Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so stop as soon as you no longer see streaks of flour.

Bake and Frost

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool before spreading peanut butter frosting and drizzling with caramel sauce. Tip: For an extra decadent touch, warm the caramel sauce slightly before drizzling.

Tips and Tricks

For those looking to elevate their banana caramel peanut butter cake, consider these advanced tips. First, toasting the peanuts before adding them to the frosting can add a delightful crunch and depth of flavor. Second, incorporating a layer of caramel between cake layers can make each bite even more indulgent. Lastly, using a piping bag to apply the frosting can give your cake a professional look with minimal effort.

Recipe Variations

  • Chocolate Lover’s Version: Add 1/2 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and use chocolate frosting instead of peanut butter.
  • Nut-Free Alternative: Substitute sunflower seed butter for peanut butter to make the cake safe for those with nut allergies.
  • Mini Cakes: Bake the batter in muffin tins for individual servings, reducing the baking time to 20-25 minutes.
  • Spiced Up: Add 1 tsp of cinnamon and 1/2 tsp of nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?

Yes, you can use store-bought caramel sauce if you’re short on time, but homemade caramel sauce will always taste better and allow you to control the sweetness and consistency. Making caramel at home is simpler than you might think, requiring just sugar, butter, and cream.

How do I store the cake?

This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent it from drying out. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even more delicious the next day.

Can I freeze the cake?

Absolutely! You can freeze the unfrosted cake layers wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before frosting and serving. The frosting can also be frozen separately, though it may need to be re-whipped after thawing.

Summary

This banana caramel peanut butter cake is a show-stopping dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its moist banana base, rich peanut butter frosting, and luscious caramel drizzle, it’s sure to impress. Follow the tips and variations to make it your own, and don’t forget to enjoy every bite!

Leave a Comment