If you’re a fan of banana desserts with a luscious twist, the Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe is guaranteed to become your new obsession. This delightful treat combines the warm, comforting flavors of banana and cinnamon with a light, airy cake rolled around a creamy, dreamy caramel-infused filling. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just because, this beautiful cake roll offers a perfect balance of sweetness and texture that makes every bite feel like a celebration. Trust me, once you try this Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe, it’ll be one of those recipes you’ll gladly bake again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe is in its simplicity. Each ingredient is carefully chosen to bring out the best flavor, texture, and color in the final dessert—no complicated pantry items needed. From fluffy eggs to ripe bananas and smooth cream cheese, these ingredients work harmoniously to create a light cake with a rich, sumptuous filling.
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour: Provides structure without making the cake dense.
- ½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise and stay tender.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy aroma that complements bananas beautifully.
- ¼ tsp salt: Balances sweetness and enhances the flavors overall.
- ¼ tsp baking soda: Assists with rise and works with the acidic banana.
- 3 large eggs: Create the fluffy texture and lightness in the cake base.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering the natural banana flavor.
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract: Infuses rich vanilla notes into the batter.
- ½ cup mashed bananas (about 1 medium-sized banana): Adds moisture, flavor, and natural sweetness.
- ½ cup powdered sugar, divided: One part for delicate dusting and the other for sweetness in the filling.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened: Creates the creamy, tangy filling.
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed: Adds a subtle molasses depth to the filling.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the creamy filling.
- ¾ cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip): Lightens the filling to make it fluffy and silky.
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes the whipped topping in the filling.
- 3 tbsp caramel sundae topping: The final luscious drizzle that makes this cake roll utterly irresistible.
How to Make Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe
Step 1: Prepare your baking environment
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15x10x1 jelly roll pan with parchment paper, then spray it with nonstick spray. This setup ensures the cake will bake evenly and release easily when it’s time to roll it.
Step 2: Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. Taking the time to sift and blend your dry ingredients evenly guarantees a smooth cake batter with no clumps or uneven rising.
Step 3: Whip the wet ingredients
In a large bowl, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla extract on high speed for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy and pale yellow. This aeration is key to giving your cake its light texture. Then gently fold in the mashed bananas for moisture and flavor.
Step 4: Combine wet and dry ingredients
Carefully fold the dry ingredients into the wet banana mixture until just combined. Overmixing can deflate the batter, so take your time and be gentle. Pour and spread this vibrant batter evenly in the prepared pan—it’s going to puff beautifully during baking.
Step 5: Bake and roll the cake
Bake for 12 to 13 minutes until the edges are slightly golden and the cake feels springy when touched. Immediately after baking, transfer the hot cake onto a clean tea towel sprinkled with powdered sugar. Roll the cake up inside the towel—this technique creates the perfect shape without cracks while cooling.
Step 6: Prepare the luscious filling
Next, beat softened cream cheese, light brown sugar, and vanilla until creamy and smooth. Fold in the whipped topping combined with powdered sugar to lighten the filling to a fluffy consistency that melts in your mouth.
Step 7: Fill and chill
Once your cake is completely cooled, gently unroll it and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface. Roll it back up snugly and allow it to chill in the fridge for at least an hour, helping the flavors meld and the filling set perfectly.
Step 8: Add the finishing touches
Just before serving, dust the cake roll with powdered sugar for a snowy, sweet look, and drizzle the caramel sundae topping generously over the top. This final flourish turns your dessert into a showstopper that’s as delicious as it is beautiful.
How to Serve Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh banana slices, a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts, and a few extra drizzles of caramel can elevate the presentation. These garnishes add texture and a fresh, fruity contrast that complements the rich cake roll perfectly.
Side Dishes
Consider serving slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A cup of rich coffee or a glass of cold milk also pairs wonderfully with this sweet treat, enhancing the overall experience without overshadowing the cake’s flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, slice the cake roll and serve individual portions in pretty dessert glasses layered with extra caramel sauce and banana chips. Or arrange slices on a large plate with fresh berries for delightful color and flavor contrast—perfect for parties or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover Caramel Banana Cake Roll wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator. This will help maintain the cake’s moisture and keep the cream cheese filling fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for enjoying a few days after baking.
Freezing
You can freeze this cake roll by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap and then placing it in an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 2 months, and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve the cake’s delicate texture and creamy filling.
Reheating
Since this cake roll is best served chilled, no reheating is necessary. However, if you prefer a slightly warmer dessert, let the slice sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can affect the texture of the filling and cake.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of banana in this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure the bananas are ripe and soft, as this maximizes sweetness and moisture, which is essential for the cake’s texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for the whipped topping?
You can use freshly whipped cream instead of store-bought whipped topping. Just whip heavy cream with a bit of powdered sugar until soft peaks form for a fresh, natural filling.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that includes xanthan gum to maintain the cake’s structure. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
How do I prevent the cake from cracking when rolling?
Rolling the cake immediately after baking while it’s still warm and using a powdered sugar–dusted towel to roll helps prevent cracks. Be gentle when unrolling after it has cooled.
Can I prepare this dessert a day in advance?
Definitely! In fact, chilling the cake roll overnight allows the flavors to meld and makes slicing easier, making it a perfect make-ahead dessert for gatherings.
Final Thoughts
This Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe is an absolute joy to bake and enjoy, blending comforting flavors with a light, fluffy texture that feels just right for any occasion. Its simplicity, combined with that irresistible caramel and banana combo, makes it a recipe you’ll want to share and savor often. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this delightful cake roll—you won’t regret it!
Print
Caramel Banana Cake Roll Recipe
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 37 minutes
- Yield: 10-12 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
A moist and fluffy Caramel Banana Cake Roll that combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a creamy, light cream cheese filling and a luscious caramel drizzle. This delightful dessert is perfect for gatherings, offering a beautiful presentation and a delightful balance of flavors.
Ingredients
Cake
- ¾ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp baking soda
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1½ tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup mashed bananas (about 1 medium-sized banana)
- ½ cup powdered sugar (for dusting)
Filling
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ¾ cup whipped topping (like Cool Whip)
- 1 tbsp powdered sugar
Topping
- 3 tbsp caramel sundae topping
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 15x10x1-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and spray it lightly with nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, salt, and baking soda. Set this mixture aside.
- Beat wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, beat the three large eggs, granulated sugar, and 1½ teaspoons of vanilla extract on high speed for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture is frothy and pale yellow. Then fold in the mashed bananas until evenly combined.
- Combine batter: Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet banana mixture carefully, just until combined to maintain lightness. Spread the batter evenly in the prepared jelly roll pan.
- Bake and roll: Bake the cake for 12 to 13 minutes until springy to the touch. Remove from oven and immediately invert the cake onto a clean tea towel dusted generously with powdered sugar. Carefully peel off the parchment paper, then roll the cake up in the towel. Allow it to cool completely rolled up to ensure it keeps its shape.
- Prepare filling: While the cake cools, beat together the cream cheese, light brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until smooth. Gently fold in the whipped topping and 1 tablespoon powdered sugar to create a light, fluffy filling.
- Fill and chill: Once the cake has fully cooled, gently unroll it and spread the cream cheese filling evenly over the surface. Re-roll the cake carefully without the towel and place it in the refrigerator to chill for at least 1 hour to set.
- Serve: Before serving, dust the cake roll with additional powdered sugar and drizzle with caramel sundae topping for a sweet finishing touch.
Notes
- Ensure the cake is rolled while warm to prevent cracking.
- You can substitute the whipped topping with freshly whipped heavy cream for a fresher taste.
- Use ripe bananas for optimal sweetness and moisture.
- Chilling the roll helps the filling set for easier slicing.
- Dusting the towel with powdered sugar helps prevent sticking when rolling.
