If you love the luscious flavors of banana and caramel combined into a fluffy, tender cake, you are in for a real treat with this Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe. This delightful dessert is a perfect blend of light cake, creamy whipped filling, and the sweet, buttery richness of caramel that makes every bite melt in your mouth. The roll format not only looks impressive but also ensures a perfect swirl of flavors in every slice, making it a favorite for gatherings or a cozy night in. Let me walk you through this easy and rewarding Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe that’s sure to become a cherished staple in your dessert repertoire.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe plays a crucial role, contributing to its moist texture, rich flavor, and inviting aroma. The simplicity of these pantry staples will surprise you, and the magic lies in how they come together to create a show-stopping dessert.
- 3 large eggs: Provide structure and help create a fluffy, airy cake base.
- ¾ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake and helps achieve a tender crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds warmth and enhances all other flavors.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour: Forms the body of the cake, giving it the perfect lightness.
- ½ teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise gently for softness.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and heightens flavor perception.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds subtle spice that brilliantly complements banana.
- 1 ripe banana (mashed): Infuses natural sweetness and moistness into the cake.
- Powdered sugar (for dusting): Creates a beautiful, delicate finish and prevents sticking when rolling.
- 1 cup heavy cream: Whipped to create a light, fluffy filling.
- ¼ cup powdered sugar: Sweetens the whipped cream filling perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses the filling with a gentle vanilla aroma.
- 1 medium banana (sliced): Adds fresh, fruity bits inside the roll for texture and flavor bursts.
- ½ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling): Brings the signature rich, buttery, sweet element that makes this cake irresistible.
How to Make Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Batter
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, then lightly grease and dust it with flour to keep the cake from sticking. This prep sets you up for an easy release and perfect roll later on. Next, in a large bowl, beat the eggs on high speed for about 3 to 5 minutes until they become thick and pale, which creates a fluffy texture. Gradually add granulated sugar while continuing to beat, then mix in the vanilla extract and mashed banana, which will give your cake that wonderful banana flavor and moist crumb.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients and Fold
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon. This mixture adds both lift and a hint of spice that works wonderfully with the banana. Gently fold these dry ingredients into the wet mixture, but be careful not to overmix. The goal is to keep the batter light and airy, so once just combined, stop folding to maintain that delicate texture.
Step 3: Bake the Cake
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared jelly roll pan and spread smooth. Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, keeping a close eye for when the cake springs back after a gentle touch. This quick bake time ensures the cake stays soft and moist without drying out. Having the right texture here is key for easy rolling without cracking.
Step 4: Roll the Cake While Warm
Once baked, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar to prevent sticking, then immediately invert the hot cake onto the towel, peel off the parchment, and roll the cake up gently starting from the short end with the towel inside. This step is crucial to train the cake into the roll shape without breaking. Let your cake cool completely in this rolled position—this will make it easier to handle when you add the filling.
Step 5: Prepare the Filling and Assemble
While the cake cools, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla extract until stiff peaks form. This whipped cream filling is the light, creamy counterpart to the denser cake. Carefully unroll the cooled cake, spread the whipped cream evenly, arrange the sliced banana on top, and drizzle with caramel sauce for that signature luscious bite. Then roll the cake back up—this time without the towel—enclosing the filling in a perfect swirl. Refrigerate it for at least an hour to let everything meld beautifully.
Step 6: Final Touches
Before serving, dust the cake roll with powdered sugar for a delicate, snowy finish and drizzle extra caramel sauce over the top for an irresistible glossy glaze. This step not only makes it look stunning but adds an extra layer of gooey sweetness that guests will adore.
How to Serve Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate the presentation, consider garnishing your Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe with toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast, or sprinkle with a pinch of cinnamon for a cozy touch. Fresh banana slices or a few dollops of whipped cream on the side add an inviting appeal and echo the delicious flavors inside.
Side Dishes
This dessert pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate syrup to balance the caramel sweetness with some classic, creamy notes. For a lighter counterpoint, a simple fresh berry salad provides a burst of tartness that complements the richness of the cake roll.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the cake roll into generous pieces and serve on a wooden board for a rustic look, or arrange slices in a circular pattern on a decorative platter to show off the caramel swirl. You can also plate smaller portions with a drizzle of caramel sauce artistically zigzagged across the plate for a restaurant-quality finish that will wow your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and keep refrigerated. The Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe stays fresh for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to develop even further while maintaining its moist, tender cake texture.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy this treat later, this cake roll freezes well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw overnight in the refrigerator to preserve the delicate texture and luscious filling.
Reheating
For a fresh-out-of-the-oven feel, let refrigerated slices come to room temperature before serving, or warm gently in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds. Avoid overheating to keep the cream filling stable and prevent the cake from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use overripe bananas for the cake?
Yes, overripe bananas are actually perfect for this recipe because they are sweeter and mash easily, enhancing the banana flavor in the cake without affecting the texture negatively.
What if I don’t have caramel sauce on hand?
You can substitute with dulce de leche or a homemade caramel made from sugar and butter. Simply drizzle it generously for that signature gooey sweetness in the roll.
Can I make a dairy-free version of this cake roll?
Absolutely! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for the filling and a dairy-free caramel syrup. The texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How do I avoid cracking when rolling the cake?
Rolling the cake while it’s still warm and using a powdered sugar-dusted towel to roll it helps prevent cracks by keeping the cake pliable and easy to handle.
Is this dessert suitable for serving at parties?
Definitely! The Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe is visually impressive and easy to slice into individual portions, making it a fantastic show-stopper for any celebration or casual get-together.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about creating and sharing this Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe with others. It’s a dessert that feels elegant yet approachable and combines classic flavors with a beautiful presentation. Once you try it, I’m sure it will become one of your go-to recipes whenever you want to impress with a dessert that’s as delicious as it is delightful. So grab those bananas and caramel sauce, and roll your way to a truly memorable treat!
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Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Caramel Banana Cake Roll is a delightful dessert featuring a light and fluffy banana-flavored sponge cake rolled with creamy whipped filling, fresh banana slices, and luscious caramel sauce. Perfectly balanced with a hint of cinnamon and vanilla, it’s an elegant yet easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for gatherings or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Cake
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ripe banana, mashed
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
Filling & Topping
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 medium banana, sliced
- ½ cup caramel sauce, plus extra for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Pan and Oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper, lightly grease it and dust with flour to prevent sticking.
- Beat the Eggs and Sugar. In a large bowl, beat the eggs at high speed for 3–5 minutes until thick and pale. Gradually add the granulated sugar, continuing to beat until fully combined and fluffy. Stir in vanilla extract and the mashed banana for flavor.
- Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground cinnamon, ensuring they are well incorporated.
- Fold Together Batter. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture until just combined, taking care not to overmix to keep the batter light.
- Bake the Cake. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan, spreading it smoothly. Bake for 10–12 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched gently.
- Roll the Cake While Warm. Immediately after baking, dust a clean kitchen towel with powdered sugar. Invert the hot cake onto the towel, carefully peel off the parchment paper, and roll the cake up inside the towel starting from the short end. This helps the cake retain shape and prevents cracking. Allow it to cool completely.
- Prepare Whipped Cream Filling. Beat the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract in a chilled bowl until stiff peaks form, creating a smooth and fluffy filling.
- Assemble the Cake Roll. Carefully unroll the cooled cake and evenly spread the whipped cream filling over the surface. Arrange sliced bananas on top and drizzle with caramel sauce.
- Roll and Chill. Roll the cake back up gently without the towel, ensuring the filling stays intact. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set and enhance flavors.
- Serve. Before serving, dust the cake roll with powdered sugar and drizzle additional caramel sauce over the top for an elegant finish.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is completely cooled before spreading the filling to prevent the whipped cream from melting.
- Use ripe but firm bananas for easier slicing and better texture within the cake roll.
- For a richer filling, mix a small amount of cream cheese into the whipped cream for extra tang and creaminess.
