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## **Instructions**
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### **2. Prepare the Banana Cake:**
– In a medium bowl, **mash the ripe bananas** with a fork or potato masher until smooth. Set aside.
– In another bowl, whisk together the **flour**, **baking soda**, **baking powder**, **cinnamon**, and **salt**. Set aside.
– In a large mixing bowl, **cream together the butter** and **granulated sugar** using a hand mixer or stand mixer until light and fluffy, about **3-4 minutes**.
– Add the **eggs**, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the **vanilla extract**.
– Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the **mashed bananas** and **sour cream** (or buttermilk), beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined—be careful not to overmix.
– Gently fold in the **chopped pecans** if you’re using them.
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### **3. Bake the Cake:**
– Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Use a spatula to smooth the tops.
– Bake in the preheated oven for **25-30 minutes** or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.
– Let the cakes cool in the pans for **10 minutes**, then turn them out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
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### **4. Make the Caramel Sauce:**
– While the cake is cooling, make the **caramel sauce**. In a medium saucepan, melt the **butter** over medium heat.
– Stir in the **brown sugar** and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about **2-3 minutes**, stirring constantly, until the sugar has dissolved.
– Slowly add the **heavy cream** while stirring, and continue to cook for another **2-3 minutes** until the sauce thickens slightly.
– Remove from heat and stir in the **vanilla extract** and **salt**. Let the caramel sauce cool for a few minutes before drizzling over the cake.
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### **5. Assemble the Cake:**
– Once the cakes have cooled completely, place one layer on a cake stand or serving plate.
– Spoon or drizzle about **⅓ to ½ cup of the caramel sauce** over the top, letting it soak into the cake a bit.
– Place the second layer of cake on top and drizzle with the remaining caramel sauce.
– Garnish with **additional chopped pecans** if desired, for extra texture and a beautiful presentation.
### **6. Serve and Enjoy:**
– Slice the cake and serve! This cake is perfect with a cup of coffee or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side.
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## **Tips for Success**
🌟 **Use Ripe Bananas**: The riper the bananas, the better! Overripe bananas are perfect for baking—they’re sweeter and provide more moisture to the cake.
🌟 **Don’t Overmix**: When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake.
🌟 **Caramel Sauce Tip**: If you want a thicker caramel sauce, let it simmer a little longer. If it’s too thick, add a splash more cream or milk to loosen it up.
🌟 **Make it Ahead**: This cake can be made in advance. Simply store the baked cake layers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to **2 days**, or refrigerate the caramel sauce. Assemble the cake just before serving.
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## **Why This Cake Works**
**Caramel Banana Pecan Cake** is the perfect dessert for anyone who loves a combination of sweet and savory flavors. The **ripe bananas** give the cake a natural sweetness and moisture, while the **pecans** provide a crunchy contrast. The homemade **caramel sauce** elevates this cake to another level of indulgence, with its creamy, rich texture and deep, comforting flavor.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
– **Ice Cream or Whipped Cream**: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream to enhance the dessert experience.
– **Fruit Compote**: Pair with a berry compote for a burst of freshness that cuts through the richness of the cake.
– **Coffee or Tea**: This cake is perfect with a hot cup of coffee or tea, making it ideal for brunch or afternoon tea gatherings.
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## **Final Thoughts**
If you’re looking for a cake that brings together the best of comforting flavors with a bit of indulgence, **Caramel Banana Pecan Cake** is the perfect choice. It’s a deliciously moist cake with layers of rich banana flavor, toasted pecans, and a luxurious caramel sauce that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re enjoying it with family, friends, or savoring a slice on your own, this cake is sure to become a go-to favorite for all your sweet cravings.
So go ahead and treat yourself to a slice of this heavenly dessert—you won’t regret it! 🍌🍰🍯
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