Name: Easy Banana Vanilla Bean Caramel Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 bananas (preferably very ripe or frozen); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature); 3 large eggs; 1/2 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (optional, can substitute with 1/2 tablespoon vanilla extract); 1 box yellow cake mix; 1/2 cup milk; 6 tablespoons caramel sauce; 1/4 cup granulated sugar (for the bundt pan); 4 ounces cream cheese, softened; 2 tablespoons caramel sauce; 1 cup powdered sugar; 1-2 tablespoons milk

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 81 reviews

If you are looking for a delightful twist on a classic dessert, this Easy Banana Vanilla Bean Caramel Cake Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining the rich sweetness of ripe bananas, the warm aroma of vanilla bean, and the luscious drip of caramel sauce, this cake is the perfect comfort treat to share with friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe makes creating a stunning, moist cake feel effortless and incredibly rewarding.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image sequence shows three stages of making a cake in a gray bundt pan placed on a white marbled surface. The first frame shows the pan filled evenly with a pale yellow cake batter spread flat and smooth. In the second frame, a woman's hand is using a spoon to add shiny golden caramel in a circular pattern on top of the batter, creating swirls with the caramel. The third frame shows the final layer with caramel swirled on top, forming thick, glossy, teardrop shapes spread evenly over the pale yellow batter. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering your ingredients is the first exciting step towards making this cake a reality. Each component is carefully chosen to build layers of flavor and texture, from the creamy butter that gives softness to the crumb to the ripe bananas that add natural sweetness and moisture.

2 bananas: Preferably very ripe or frozen for maximum sweetness and flavor.
1/2 cup unsalted butter (room temperature): Adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
3 large eggs: Bind everything together and provide structure.
1/2 tablespoon vanilla bean paste (or vanilla extract): Infuses the cake with an authentic vanilla aroma.
1 box Yellow cake mix: The convenient base that simplifies the baking process without sacrificing taste.
1/2 cup milk: Moisturizes the batter for that perfect texture.
6 tablespoons caramel sauce: Offers gooey, luscious pockets of sweetness throughout the cake.
1/4 cup granulated sugar (for bundt pan): Creates a delightful, caramelized crust on the cake exterior.
4 ounces cream cheese, softened: Forms the base of the rich glaze for topping.
2 tablespoons caramel sauce (for glaze): Enhances the cream cheese frosting with a sweet, buttery note.
1 cup powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze for drizzling.
1-2 tablespoons milk: Helps adjust glaze consistency to your liking.

How to Make Easy Banana Vanilla Bean Caramel Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Bundt Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, then thoroughly butter your 10-12 cup bundt pan. Be sure to coat every groove and the center tube carefully. Next, sprinkle 1/4 cup of granulated sugar over the butter, twirl and shake the pan to evenly coat all surfaces with sugar. This simple trick creates a sweet, slightly crunchy exterior on the finished cake that’s just irresistible.

Step 2: Combine Butter and Bananas

In a large bowl, add the softened butter and bananas. If your bananas are fresh rather than frozen, chop them finely or mash until smooth and creamy. Use an electric mixer on medium speed to beat the butter and banana together until completely combined with no large chunks remaining. This creamy base is crucial for ensuring every bite is moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one by one to the banana mixture, mixing well after each addition to achieve a smooth blend. Then stir in the vanilla bean paste or extract, scraping the bowl to combine everything evenly. This brings a depth of warmth and aromatic sweetness that perfectly complements the bananas.

Step 4: Add Milk and Cake Mix

On medium speed, pour in half of the milk and mix it into the batter. Follow by adding half of the dry cake mix, again mixing gently but thoroughly. Repeat this with the remaining milk and cake mix, making sure to scrape down the sides to incorporate all ingredients smoothly. The batter should be thick but spreadable, ready for that delightful swirl of caramel.

Step 5: Layer and Swirl Caramel

Use a large spoon or spatula to add half of the cake batter into your prepared bundt pan, smoothing it out to form an even layer. Drizzle three tablespoons of caramel sauce over the center, careful to avoid the edges. Using a knife, gently swirl the caramel into the batter to create gorgeous, gooey pockets. Repeat this layering and swirling process with the remaining batter and caramel, creating a beautifully marbled effect throughout the cake.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pop the cake into your preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes. Ovens vary, so begin testing for doneness at 40 minutes by sticking a toothpick into the cake center—if it comes out clean, your cake is ready. If using a light or older pan, consider baking at 325 degrees for 45 minutes to avoid burning. When done, set your cake on a wire rack and let it cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes.

Step 7: Unmold and Cool

To release the cake smoothly, don’t let it cool completely in the pan or it will stick. After 10-15 minutes, gently tap and shake the pan to loosen the cake, then invert it onto a wire rack. Allow it to cool fully before moving on to the glaze for best results.

Step 8: Make the Cream Cheese Caramel Glaze

In a small bowl, use a mixer to blend softened cream cheese with 2 tablespoons of caramel sauce until creamy. Add powdered sugar and 1 tablespoon of milk, mixing slowly to combine. Adjust consistency with extra milk if needed to create a luscious glaze that’s thick but pourable. This glaze adds the perfect finishing touch to your banana vanilla caramel cake.

Step 9: Glaze and Optional Toppings

Drizzle the glaze generously over the cooled cake. For an extra bit of crunch and flavor, sprinkle chopped pecans immediately over the wet glaze so they stick beautifully. This adds texture contrast and a nutty twist that elevates each bite.

How to Serve Easy Banana Vanilla Bean Caramel Cake Recipe

A single slice of light brown, moist cake with a soft, textured crumb is placed on a white plate, topped with a smooth layer of creamy, light beige frosting. On top of the frosting, there are a few chopped pecans adding a crunchy texture. In the background, the rest of the round cake with the same frosting and pecan topping is on a white plate, with a bunch of small red and white flowers behind it. A white cup with a dark brown liquid sits to the side on a white marbled surface, and another slice of the cake is visible further back on stacked white plates. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar or a few slices of fresh banana on top can brighten and clarify the flavors. You might also consider adding toasted pecans or even a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the cake’s creamy, rich profile.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a cup of hot coffee or tea, turning dessert time into a cozy and indulgent ritual. Fresh berries on the side can lighten each bite and add a refreshing contrast.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual slices on pretty dessert plates with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted coconut. For a party, layer cake slices with banana slices and cream cheese glaze in parfait glasses for a fun twist. Presentation can be effortless yet impressive with a few personal touches.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After enjoying your cake, wrap any leftovers tightly and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the cake moist and fresh for up to 4 days, preserving that delightful banana and caramel flavor balance.

Freezing

You can freeze slices individually by wrapping them well in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This makes a perfect ready-to-go treat that thaws beautifully overnight in the fridge for quick desserts.

Reheating

For that freshly baked warmth, gently reheat cake slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or until just warmed through. This revives the soft texture and enhances the caramel’s gooey nature for a cozy bite.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cake mix instead of yellow?

Absolutely! While yellow cake mix provides a classic base, you can experiment with white or even spice cake mixes to add a new flavor dimension. Just keep in mind how the spices might interact with the banana and caramel flavors.

What if I don’t have vanilla bean paste?

No worries at all. Regular vanilla extract works perfectly fine and still gives that lovely vanilla aroma. Use the same amount as you would the paste, and your cake will still taste amazing.

How ripe should the bananas be?

Ideally, your bananas should be very ripe, with lots of brown spots or even slightly mushy. This ensures they are sweet and flavorful, which is crucial for achieving the moist and tender crumb this cake is celebrated for.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

You can substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free variety that you trust. Just be sure the mix is suited for bundt-style cakes and follow the package instructions carefully for best results.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

The key step is thoroughly buttering the bundt pan and coating it well with granulated sugar, especially in every groove and the center tube. Removing the cake before it cools completely also helps it release easily, preventing any sticking issues.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Banana Vanilla Bean Caramel Cake Recipe is one of those rare treats that feels both indulgent and approachable. Its comforting flavors and effortless preparation make it the perfect choice for busy bakers who want spectacular results without the fuss. I promise once you try it, this cake will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection—baking it fills your kitchen with warmth and sharing it fills hearts with joy.