Caramel Banana Cake Roll

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Caramel Banana Cake Roll is a stunning, flavor-packed dessert that combines soft, moist banana sponge cake with a luscious caramel filling. Rolled into a beautiful spiral and topped with more caramel drizzle, this dessert is as show-stopping as it is satisfying. It’s perfect for special occasions or whenever you want to impress with a homemade treat that looks bakery-worthy but is surprisingly simple to make.

ingredients

this Recipe

Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.

for the banana cake
all-purpose flour
baking powder
salt
ground cinnamon
eggs
granulated sugar
mashed ripe bananas
vanilla extract

for the caramel filling
cream cheese (softened)
powdered sugar
heavy cream
vanilla extract
caramel sauce (plus extra for drizzling)

for dusting and serving
powdered sugar (for rolling and dusting)
caramel sauce (for topping)
sliced bananas (optional for garnish)

directions

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 10×15-inch jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.

In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and cinnamon.

In another bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale, about 3-4 minutes. Mix in mashed bananas and vanilla.

Gradually fold in the dry ingredients until just combined.

Pour the batter into the prepared pan and spread evenly. Bake for 12-14 minutes, or until the cake springs back when lightly touched.

While the cake bakes, lay a clean kitchen towel on a flat surface and dust it generously with powdered sugar.

Immediately after baking, turn the hot cake onto the prepared towel. Peel off the parchment paper.

Starting from the short end, roll the cake up with the towel and let it cool completely.

For the filling, beat cream cheese, powdered sugar, caramel sauce, vanilla, and heavy cream until smooth and fluffy.

Once the cake is cool, carefully unroll it. Spread the filling evenly over the surface, then gently re-roll the cake (without the towel).

Place seam-side down on a serving plate and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to set.

Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with additional caramel sauce. Garnish with sliced bananas if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 8-10.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 12-14 minutes
Cooling and chilling time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

Add chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) to the filling for crunch.
Use dulce de leche instead of caramel for a richer flavor.
Add a hint of espresso powder to the cake for depth.
Layer sliced bananas into the filling for extra banana flavor.
Top with whipped cream for added indulgence.

storage/reheating

Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freeze (without topping) for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Best served chilled or at cool room temperature.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it’s ideal for making a day in advance.

Do I have to use cream cheese in the filling?
It gives structure and flavor, but you can substitute mascarpone or whipped topping.

Why roll the cake in a towel?
It prevents cracking and helps shape the roll as it cools.

Can I skip the caramel?
You can, but it’s key to the flavor—consider using butterscotch as a substitute.

Is this very sweet?
It has a balanced sweetness, but you can reduce sugar slightly if preferred.

What if my cake cracks?
It’s okay—just cover with caramel or powdered sugar for a rustic look.

Can I use a different size pan?
A 10×15-inch jelly roll pan works best. A larger pan may make the cake too thin.

How do I keep the cake moist?
Don’t overbake and be sure to roll it while warm to trap steam.

Can I add banana extract?
Yes, for a stronger banana flavor, add a few drops to the batter.

Can I serve it warm?
It’s best chilled so the filling sets properly.

Conclusion

Caramel Banana Cake Roll is a rich, elegant dessert that blends soft banana cake with creamy caramel filling in every swirl. Perfectly balanced and visually impressive, it’s the kind of treat that turns any gathering into a celebration. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned baker, this cake roll is a delicious way to impress and indulge.

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