Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe first whiff of nutty brown butter sizzling in the pan instantly transported me to a cozy kitchen filled with warmth and laughter. This Brown Butter Banana Cake with Chocolate Caramel Frosting is not only a crowd-pleaser, but it also transforms humble ingredients into an impressive two-layer delight. Perfect for any occasion, it shines at birthdays or as a weekend treat that feels like a celebration of flavors. With quick prep and easy assembly, you’ll discover how simple it is to create a showstopper that brings smiles all around. Plus, the rich banana flavor melds effortlessly with the luscious chocolate caramel frosting, making each bite feel like a little hug! Are you ready to show off your baking skills and surprise your loved ones with this irresistible creation? Why is this cake so irresistible? Mouthwatering Flavor: The nutty essence of brown butter combined with sweet, ripe bananas creates an unforgettable taste that elevates this cake above the rest. Decadent Frosting: Topped with a luxurious chocolate caramel frosting, each slice brings a melty richness that pairs beautifully with the moist cake layers. Quick and Easy: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, even beginner bakers can create this impressive dessert without hassle. Versatile Delight: Perfect for birthdays, celebrations, or cozy weekends, it transforms ordinary gatherings into special moments. You can also try the delightful Banana Chips Homemade for a light snack alongside. Family Favorite: This cake is bound to impress friends and family alike, making it a go-to recipe for any dessert table. Brown Butter Banana Cake Ingredients • The key to an incredible dessert! For the Cake Ripe Bananas – Use overly ripe ones for maximum natural sweetness and moisture. Salted Butter – Brown it until lightly toasted to impart a rich, nutty flavor to the cake. Large Eggs – Ensure they are at room temperature for optimal mixing and structure. Honey – Adds sweetness; feel free to substitute with maple syrup if desired. Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure vanilla for the best results. All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; a gluten-free blend can work as a great substitute. Baking Soda & Baking Powder – Freshness is key for rise; always check expiration dates. Cinnamon – Adds a warm, comforting spice; adjust to your taste preference. Salt – Balances the sweetness and elevates overall flavors in the cake. For the Chocolate Caramel Frosting Maple Syrup – Forms the base of the frosting, contributing to a delightful caramel-like texture. Heavy Cream – Essential for a rich frosting; avoid using milk to maintain the right consistency. Chopped Chocolate – Melted into the frosting for a rich, chocolatey flavor; choose semi-sweet or dark chocolate based on your preference. Flaked Sea Salt – Optional, but adds a delicious contrast to the sweetness when sprinkled as a garnish. This Brown Butter Banana Cake with Chocolate Caramel Frosting will absolutely delight your taste buds and leave your guests asking for seconds! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Brown Butter Banana Cake with Chocolate Caramel Frosting Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper for easy removal later. This preparation ensures that your Brown Butter Banana Cake bakes evenly and releases effortlessly after baking. Step 2: Brown the Butter Next, place a pot over medium heat and add the salted butter. Allow it to melt and continue cooking until it becomes fragrant and golden brown, about 2–3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it develops a nutty aroma and a slightly darker color. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly while you gather the other ingredients. Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed ripe bananas, the browned butter, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together gently until the mixture is smooth and well incorporated. The banana and brown butter will provide a rich flavor profile, setting a delicious base for your cake. Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients Gradually add the all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt to the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined to avoid over-mixing. You’ll want a thick batter with a few small lumps remaining for the best texture in your Brown Butter Banana Cake. Step 5: Bake the Layers Divide the batter evenly between the prepared cake pans. Place them in the preheated oven and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The cakes should spring back when lightly pressed. Once done, take them out and set aside to cool. Step 6: Cool the Cakes Allow the cakes to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then gently turn them out onto a cooling rack, removing the parchment paper. Let the cakes cool completely to room temperature—this is essential for achieving the perfect frosting consistency. Step 7: Prepare the Frosting For the chocolate caramel frosting, boil the maple syrup in a medium pot over medium heat for about 5 minutes. Then, stir in heavy cream and continue cooking until the mixture thickens, which should take about another 5–8 minutes, creating a rich frosting base. Step 8: Add Chocolate and Chill Once thickened, remove the pot from heat and whisk in the chopped chocolate and vanilla extract until fully melted and smooth. Allow the frosting to cool to room temperature before placing it in the fridge to chill for about 30 minutes, which will help firm it up for whipping. Step 9: Whip the Frosting After chilling, remove the frosting from the fridge and whisk it vigorously until it becomes light and creamy. This step is crucial for achieving a fluffy texture that will generously coat your Brown Butter Banana Cake layers. Step 10: Assemble the Cake To assemble the cake, spread a generous layer of frosting between the cooled cake layers. Once the layers are stacked, frost the top and sides of the cake, creating a beautifully coated final appearance. Step 11: Decorate and Serve Optionally, sprinkle the cake with flaked sea salt or add chocolate shavings for a decorative touch. Slice and serve your Brown Butter Banana Cake with Chocolate Caramel Frosting at room temperature, delighting everyone with its moist texture and rich flavors. Brown Butter Banana Cake Variations Feel free to mix and match these variations to create a personalized version of your Brown Butter Banana Cake! Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to cater to dietary needs while retaining delightful flavor. Nutty Goodness: Mix in chopped walnuts or pecans for a pleasant crunch that complements the moist banana texture beautifully. The added nuts provide a delightful surprise in each slice! Spice It Up: Increase the cinnamon or add a dash of nutmeg for a warm, comforting flavor that elevates the cake to cozy, holiday heights. Frosting Twist: Consider using cream cheese frosting instead of chocolate caramel for a tangy finish that contrasts deliciously with the sweet banana flavor. Mini Delights: Use the batter to create mini cupcakes for easy, bite-sized treats that are perfect for sharing at gatherings or for fun snacks any time. Decadent Chocolate: Introduce chocolate chips or cocoa powder into the batter for extra richness and a luscious, chocolatey flavor burst. Kids will absolutely love this twist! Tropical Surprise: Add coconut flakes or a splash of coconut extract to the batter for a tropical twist that brings an exotic flair to the familiar banana taste. Heat It Up: For those who love a kick, a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or a dash of jalapeño powder in the batter will create a bold flavor contrast that’s simply irresistible. Now that you have some delicious ideas, why not create your own masterpiece? This cake pairs beautifully with a side of delightful Banana Chips Homemade for a crunchy complement or serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a real treat! Make Ahead Options These Brown Butter Banana Cakes with Chocolate Caramel Frosting are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a delicious dessert on busy weeknights! You can bake the cake layers up to 3 days in advance. Simply let them cool completely, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate to maintain their moisture. If you’re short on time, the frosting can also be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just give it a quick whisk before spreading it on the cake. When you’re ready to serve, layer the cakes and frost them as directed, and you’ll have a delightful treat that is just as delicious as if it were made fresh! How to Store and Freeze Brown Butter Banana Cake Fridge: Store the cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. It’s best enjoyed within the first 3 days for optimal freshness and flavor. Freezer: Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months to preserve the taste of the Brown Butter Banana Cake with Chocolate Caramel Frosting. Reheating: To enjoy, thaw slices in the refrigerator overnight. For a cozy touch, warm slightly in the microwave for a few seconds before serving. Layer Separation: If frosting separates slightly after thawing, give it a gentle whisk to restore texture before serving, ensuring every bite remains heavenly! Expert Tips for Brown Butter Banana Cake Use Overripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and moister the cake will be. Look for bananas with brown spots for maximum flavor. Watch the Butter: When browning butter, stay attentive! It can quickly go from beautifully toasted to burnt within seconds—so no multitasking here! Cool Before Frosting: Ensure the cakes are completely cool before frosting to prevent melting. A warm cake will cause the chocolate caramel frosting to slide off. Chill for Texture: After preparing the frosting, give it a nice chill in the fridge before whipping. This step ensures a fluffy texture perfect for layering. Play with Spices: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon level or even add a hint of nutmeg for an extra flavor layer in your Brown Butter Banana Cake. What to Serve with Brown Butter Banana Cake with Chocolate Caramel Frosting Pairing this decadent cake with complementary sides and treats will elevate your dessert experience to new heights. Whipped Cream: A dollop of fluffy whipped cream adds lightness and sweetness, enhancing the cake’s rich flavors beautifully. Fresh Berries: Serve with a medley of ripe strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast that balances the cake’s sweetness. Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool texture of vanilla ice cream pairs perfectly, making each bite a delicious celebration of flavors. Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce on the plate not only elevates presentation but also amplifies the cake’s rich, buttery notes. Espresso or Coffee: A cup of freshly brewed espresso complements the cake’s flavors, offering a delightful balance of sweetness and boldness in every bite. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle a handful of nutty granola alongside for crunchy texture and a wholesome touch that pairs surprisingly well with banana. Chocolate-Dipped Fruit: Consider serving a platter of chocolate-dipped strawberries or bananas for a fun, cohesive treat that resonates with the dessert theme. Cream Cheese Frosting: For those wanting an alternative to chocolate, a tangy cream cheese frosting adds an unexpected twist that pairs wonderfully with the banana base. Chilled Lemonade or Iced Tea: A glass of refreshing lemonade or iced tea offers a zesty contrast, cleansing the palate after each rich slice of cake. Mini Cheesecakes: Individual mini cheesecakes serve as a delightful counterpoint, providing creaminess and contrasting flavor profiles to the chocolate and banana. Brown Butter Banana Cake with Chocolate Caramel Frosting Recipe FAQs How do I select the best bananas for this cake? Absolutely! Look for bananas that are overly ripe with lots of brown spots or even black peels. This ripeness indicates maximum sweetness and moisture, essential for a flavorful Brown Butter Banana Cake. If they’re a little mushy, that’s perfectly fine—this is exactly what you want to achieve the best flavor. What’s the best way to store leftover cake? To keep your leftovers fresh, store your Brown Butter Banana Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For optimal taste and moisture, it’s best enjoyed within the first 3 days. If you notice it getting too dry, simply add a slice of bread in the container, which will help retain moisture! Can I freeze Brown Butter Banana Cake? Of course! To freeze, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. This method helps protect the cake from freezer burn and keeps it fresh. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw a slice in the refrigerator overnight, and if you like, warm it slightly in the microwave for a cozy treat! What if my frosting turns out too runny? If your chocolate caramel frosting is too runny, don’t worry! This can happen sometimes. To fix it, simply chill the frosting in the refrigerator for about 15-30 minutes to help it firm up. Once it’s cooled, whip it again until you achieve a fluffy consistency. If you still find it too thin, you can mix in a little more melted chocolate to thicken it up and boost that rich flavor. Are there any dietary concerns I should be aware of? Yes, always a good question! This recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and wheat (flour). If you are baking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free flour and verify that the chocolate you choose is dairy-free if needed. Also, I recommend keeping this cake away from pets, as chocolate can be toxic to dogs and cats. Can I use a different frosting for this cake? Very! If you’d like to switch things up, feel free to substitute the chocolate frosting with a cream cheese frosting for a tangy twist. This gives a lovely contrast to the sweet banana cake and adds another layer of deliciousness. You could also try a simple vanilla buttercream if you prefer a classic flavor! Indulge in Brown Butter Banana Cake with Chocolate Caramel Frosting This Brown Butter Banana Cake with Chocolate Caramel Frosting delivers a delightful blend of nutty sweetness and luxurious richness. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsCooling Time 10 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 10 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? Brown Butter Banana Cake Ingredients3 medium Ripe Bananas1 cup Salted Butter Browned until lightly toasted3 large Large Eggs At room temperature1/2 cup Honey Substitutable with maple syrup1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract Preferably pure2 cups All-Purpose Flour Gluten-free blend can be used1 teaspoon Baking Soda1 teaspoon Baking Powder1 teaspoon Cinnamon Adjust to taste1/4 teaspoon Salt Balances sweetnessChocolate Caramel Frosting1/2 cup Maple Syrup Base of the frosting1/2 cup Heavy Cream Avoid milk for consistency6 ounces Chopped Chocolate Semi-sweet or dark1 teaspoon Flaked Sea Salt Optional garnish Equipment OvenMixing Bowl9-inch Cake PanswhiskSpatulaCooling rack Method Step-by-Step InstructionsPreheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Butter two 8-inch round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.Brown the salted butter in a pot over medium heat until golden brown and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed ripe bananas, browned butter, eggs, honey, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.Gradually add flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, and salt. Stir until just combined.Divide the batter between the prepared cake pans and bake for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.Allow cakes to cool in pans for 10 minutes, then turn them out onto a cooling rack to cool completely.Boil maple syrup in a pot over medium heat for about 5 minutes, then stir in heavy cream and cook until thickened.Whisk in chopped chocolate and vanilla extract until smooth. Cool to room temperature and chill in fridge for 30 minutes.Whisk the chilled frosting vigorously until light and creamy.Spread frosting between cake layers, then frost the top and sides of the cake. Decorate with flaked sea salt or chocolate shavings if desired.Slice and serve at room temperature. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 5gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 150mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 2gSugar: 22gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 4mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 1mg NotesFor the best flavor, use overripe bananas and ensure cakes are completely cool before frosting. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
