The perfect marriage of sweet banana and bold bourbon, this moist cake is a celebration of classic Southern flavors with a modern twist. Each bite is rich and tender, highlighted by the irresistible aroma of brown sugar, spice, and warm vanilla.
What truly sets this cake apart is the creamy caramel frosting, made from scratch and poured over the top in a luscious golden swirl. It hardens slightly as it sets, creating a candy-like shell that contrasts beautifully with the soft crumb underneath. This cake is ideal for fall baking, holiday dinners, or whenever you want to impress with flavor and flair.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For the cake:
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1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
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1 tsp baking powder
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½ tsp baking soda
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½ tsp salt
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½ tsp cinnamon
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¼ tsp nutmeg
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¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
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¾ cup light brown sugar
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¼ cup granulated sugar
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2 large eggs
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3 ripe bananas, mashed
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2 tbsp bourbon
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½ cup sour cream
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1 tsp vanilla extract
For the caramel frosting:
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½ cup unsalted butter
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1 cup brown sugar
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¼ cup whole milk
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2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
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½ tsp vanilla extract
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Pinch of salt
Directions:
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line an 8-inch round cake pan.
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In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugars together until light and fluffy.
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Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add the mashed bananas, bourbon, sour cream, and vanilla.
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Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined. Do not overmix.
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Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
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Cool the cake in the pan for 10 minutes, then turn out onto a wire rack to cool completely.
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To make the frosting, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add brown sugar and cook for 2 minutes.
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Stir in milk and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
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Beat in sifted powdered sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of salt until smooth and spreadable.
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Frost the cooled cake generously with the caramel frosting.
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cooking Time: 40 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 410 kcal | Servings: 10 slices
Bourbon Banana Cake with Caramel Frosting is not just your average banana cake. It’s a soulful Southern dessert that perfectly marries the sweetness of ripe bananas with the deep, smoky notes of bourbon. Topped with a rich and buttery caramel frosting, it’s a dessert that transforms simple ingredients into an unforgettable indulgence.
This cake carries the essence of comfort baking that warm, familiar aroma of banana bread rising in the oven, now made luxurious with the addition of bourbon and a smooth caramel topping. It brings nostalgic flavors into a more elevated format, perfect for dinner parties, holidays, or simply a cozy night in.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Recipe
Banana cake has long been a staple in American baking, especially in the South where it’s often served at potlucks, family gatherings, and church socials. The addition of bourbon is a nod to Southern traditions not only as a popular drink but also as a flavor enhancer in cooking and baking.
Bourbon, with its vanilla, oak, and caramel notes, complements bananas beautifully. When combined, the result is a moist, flavorful cake that’s both comforting and sophisticated. The caramel frosting, made from scratch, adds a final touch of decadence that elevates this cake from rustic to show-stopping.
Why This Cake Stands Out
There are countless banana cake recipes available, but what sets this one apart is its bold flavor profile and the textural contrast between the tender crumb and the slightly crisp caramel frosting. The use of sour cream ensures moisture and richness, while the mashed bananas provide natural sweetness and density.
Additionally, the cake isn’t overly sweet the slight bitterness from the bourbon balances the sugars, making each bite nuanced and layered. The caramel frosting isn’t just a topping, it’s a statement. It seeps slightly into the cake, adding gooey, buttery complexity with every forkful.
This is not a cake you scarf down. It’s one you savor.
Perfect Occasions to Serve This Cake
This cake is versatile enough for everyday enjoyment and elegant enough for special occasions. It works wonderfully as:
- A Thanksgiving or holiday dessert
- A birthday or celebration cake
- A make-ahead dessert for dinner parties
- A sweet weekend treat to enjoy with coffee or tea
It’s also a fantastic choice for fall baking, thanks to the warm flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and bourbon perfect companions to crisp autumn air and cozy gatherings.
Benefits of Baking This Recipe
- Utilizes Overripe Bananas
Have bananas that have gone too soft? This recipe is a delicious way to use them, preventing food waste and turning something ordinary into something luxurious. - Simple Yet Sophisticated
Despite the complex flavors, the recipe is beginner-friendly. There’s no need for layers, fillings, or fancy techniques. A single, well-baked cake topped with homemade frosting is all you need. - Flexible and Customizable
You can easily adapt this recipe. Not a bourbon fan? Use dark rum or skip the alcohol altogether. Want to make it a layer cake? Double the recipe. Prefer cupcakes? The batter works for that, too. - Make-Ahead Friendly
This cake stays moist for days, and the flavors deepen over time. It’s a perfect make-ahead dessert, especially when entertaining. - Crowd-Pleaser
It’s nearly impossible not to love the combination of banana, caramel, and bourbon. Even those who aren’t fans of whiskey are often won over by the mellow, cooked-in flavor.
Tips for Baking the Perfect Bourbon Banana Cake
- Use very ripe bananas: The more speckled, the better. They’ll be sweeter and easier to mash.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing can make the cake dense and chewy. Fold the dry ingredients gently into the wet mixture.
- Check doneness carefully: Use a toothpick to test the center it should come out with a few moist crumbs, not wet batter.
- Cool before frosting: Always let the cake cool fully before adding the caramel frosting so it sets nicely without melting.
- Make frosting fresh: The caramel frosting sets quickly. Have it ready to go once the cake is cool to get the best texture and appearance.
What Makes Caramel Frosting So Irresistible
The caramel frosting is arguably the crown jewel of this dessert. Unlike a simple buttercream or cream cheese topping, this frosting has depth, texture, and flavor. It’s cooked on the stovetop, which allows the sugar and butter to meld into a toffee-like base. Once the powdered sugar is whisked in, it transforms into a creamy yet slightly firm glaze that sets beautifully over the cake.
The result is an almost candy-like finish that complements the softness of the banana cake underneath. The frosting locks in moisture while adding a rich, buttery bite to each slice.
Pairing Suggestions
To enjoy this cake at its fullest potential, consider these pairing ideas:
- Drinks: A cup of strong black coffee, spiced chai, or even a neat pour of bourbon to echo the flavors.
- Sides: A dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream adds creaminess and contrast.
- Fruit: Fresh berries or sliced apples on the side can add a tart brightness to balance the sweetness.
Storing and Serving Tips
This cake keeps well at room temperature for up to 2 days and refrigerated for up to 5 days. Wrap it tightly or store in an airtight container. The frosting will set slightly more in the fridge, which some people prefer for a firmer bite.
It also freezes beautifully. Wrap individual slices or the whole cake (unfrosted or lightly frosted) in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bring to room temperature before serving.
A Cake with Nostalgic Comfort and Grown-Up Flair
Bourbon Banana Cake with Caramel Frosting bridges the gap between humble home baking and elevated dessert artistry. It’s the kind of cake that reminds you of childhood banana bread but speaks to your adult palate with hints of bourbon and rich caramel.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance. Every component complements the other, and the finished cake tells a flavorful story one of tradition, indulgence, and love for baking. Whether served at a family gathering or given as a gift, it’s sure to be remembered and requested time and again.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a dessert that is comforting yet sophisticated, look no further than this Bourbon Banana Cake with Caramel Frosting. It’s easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and makes excellent use of pantry staples like ripe bananas and brown sugar. The bourbon adds a touch of warmth, while the caramel frosting turns it into a showstopper.
Whether you’re an experienced baker or someone trying this for the first time, this recipe delivers every time. It’s more than just a cake it’s a celebration of flavor, tradition, and joy. So grab your whisk, pour a splash of bourbon, and bake up a dessert that’s guaranteed to impress.