Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe: Moist & Decadent

Dulce de leche banana cake is a match made in heaven. It combines the deep, caramel-like flavor of dulce de leche with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas.

This moist and decadent cake is infused with the velvety smoothness of dulce de leche and complemented by the tender crumb of banana cake.

You can create this indulgent treat that will become a new favourite with just a few simple ingredients and basic kitchen equipment.

Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe: A Quick Overview

Category	Description
Recipe Description	Moist and decadent banana cake infused with the rich flavor of dulce de leche
Preparation Time	20 minutes
Cooking Time	35-40 minutes
Total Time	55-60 minutes
Type of Dish	Cake
Cuisine	Latin American-inspired
Quantity Produced	2 x 9-inch (23cm) cakes
Number of Calories	approximately 350-400 per slice

About Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe

This Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe is a masterclass in texture and flavour. The cake itself is incredibly moist, thanks to ripe bananas and buttermilk.

At the same time, the dulce de leche adds a rich, caramel-like flavour that’s perfectly balanced by the sweetness of the bananas.

The crumb is tender and fine, with a delicate crust that gives way to a soft, fluffy interior.

And then, of course, there’s the dulce de leche – a sweet, sticky sauce infused throughout the cake, adding an extra layer of flavour and moisture to every bite.

Why does Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe Stand Out?

• Unique Flavor Combination: The combination of sweet, caramel-like dulce de leche and ripe bananas creates a truly unique and addictive flavor profile.
• Moist and Decadent Texture: The use of buttermilk and mashed bananas ensures a moist and tender crumb, while the dulce de leche adds an extra layer of richness and indulgence.
• Easy to Make: Despite its impressive appearance and flavor, this cake is surprisingly easy to make, requiring only basic kitchen equipment and no special skills.
• Versatile: This cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a special celebration, a brunch gathering, or just a sweet treat for the family.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: The cake can be made ahead of time and stored at room temperature or frozen for later, making it a great option for busy home bakers.
• Impressive Presentation: The dulce de leche drizzle and sprinkle of powdered sugar create a stunning presentation that’s sure to impress friends and family.
• Customizable: Feel free to get creative with toppings and mix-ins, such as chopped nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit, to make the cake your own!

What are the ingredients in the Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe?

• 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups (450g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 3-4 ripe bananas, mashed
• 1 cup (240ml) buttermilk
• 1 cup (240ml) dulce de leche (store-bought or homemade)

Must-Have Equipment for Making Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe

Essential Equipment:

• 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans: You’ll need two of these to bake the cake layers.
• Electric mixer: A stand mixer or handheld electric mixer is necessary for creaming the butter and sugar, beating in the eggs, and mixing the batter.
• Whisk: A sturdy whisk is necessary for mixing the flour mixture and combining the wet and dry ingredients.
• Rubber spatula: A heat-resistant rubber spatula is perfect for scraping the sides of the bowl and folding in the dulce de leche.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking, so make sure you have a set of measuring cups and spoons on hand.
• Oven thermometer: Ensure your oven is at the correct temperature with an oven thermometer.
• Wire rack: A wire rack is necessary for cooling the cakes after they’re removed from the oven.
• Parchment paper: Line the cake pans with parchment paper to prevent the cakes from sticking.

Optional but Helpful Equipment:

• Food processor or blender: If you want to make your own dulce de leche from scratch, a food processor or blender can be helpful for blending the sweetened condensed milk.
• Pastry brush: A pastry brush can be used to apply the dulce de leche to the cake layers.
• Cake leveler or serrated knife: If you want to level your cakes before assembling the final cake, a cake leveler or serrated knife can be helpful.

Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe: step by step guide

Preparing the Ingredients

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease two 9-inch (23cm) round cake pans and line the bottoms with parchment paper.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups (285g) all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, and 1/2 teaspoon salt. Set aside.
• In a large bowl, use an electric mixer to beat 1 cup (200g) unsalted butter, softened, and 1 3/4 cups (450g) granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2 minutes.
• Beat in 2 large eggs one at a time, then beat in 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract.
• Mash 3-4 ripe bananas in a bowl and set aside.

Mixing the Batter

• With the mixer on low speed, gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three parts, alternating with the mashed bananas, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Beat just until combined.
• Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans and smooth the tops.
• Drizzle 1/2 cup (120g) dulce de leche over the batter in each pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly.

Assembling and Baking the Cake

• Bake the cakes for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Remove the cakes from the oven and let them cool in the pans for 10 minutes.
• Transfer the cakes to a wire rack to cool completely.
• Once the cakes are completely cool, place one cake layer on a serving plate and spread a layer of dulce de leche on top. Place the second cake layer on top and dust with powdered sugar, if desired.

Perfect Pairings for Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe

Beverages:

• Coffee: A classic pairing that will never go out of style. The bitterness of the coffee complements the sweetness of the cake.
• Tea: Whether you prefer black, green, or herbal tea, a hot cup pairs nicely with the warm, comforting flavors of the cake.
• Hot Chocolate: For a more decadent treat, try pairing the cake with a rich, creamy hot chocolate.

Fresh Fruits:

• Sliced Bananas: A natural pairing that adds natural sweetness and creamy texture.
• Fresh Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries add a burst of freshness and flavor contrast to the rich cake.
• Diced Apples: A sweet and crunchy pairing that complements the cake’s sweetness.

Whipped Cream or Ice Cream:

• Whipped Cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a light, airy texture and a touch of sweetness.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool, creamy contrast to the warm cake.

Nuts or Seeds:

• Chopped Walnuts or Pecans: A sprinkle of chopped nuts adds a satisfying crunch and flavor contrast.
• Chia Seeds: A sprinkle of chia seeds provides a nutritious and crunchy topping.

Sauces or Syrups:

• Caramel Sauce: A drizzle of caramel sauce adds a sweet, sticky flavor that complements the dulce de leche.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: A drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of flavor.

Mastering Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe: Insider Tips and Tricks

Insider Tips:

• Use ripe bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful the cake will be.
• Don’t overmix: Mix the batter just until the ingredients are combined. Overmixing can result in a dense cake.
• Use high-quality dulce de leche: Choose a high-quality dulce de leche that’s smooth and creamy for the best flavor.
• Don’t overbake: Check the cakes frequently while they’re baking to avoid overbaking. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
• Let the cakes cool completely: Resist the temptation to assemble the cake until the cakes are completely cool. This ensures the frosting sets properly.

Tricks of the Trade:

• Use a water bath: Bake the cakes in a water bath to ensure even cooking and to prevent the edges from becoming too dark.
• Add a teaspoon of salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the cake and balances the sweetness.
• Try different types of milk: Experiment with different types of milk, such as almond or soy milk, to create a non-dairy version of the cake.
• Add a teaspoon of espresso powder: A teaspoon of espresso powder deepens the flavor of the cake and pairs well with the dulce de leche.
• Make ahead: Prepare the cake layers and dulce de leche ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer for up to 2 months.

What nutritional benefits does the Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Offer?

• Rich in Fiber: Bananas are a good source of dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health and support healthy blood sugar levels.
• Good Source of Potassium: Bananas are a rich source of potassium, an essential mineral that helps maintain healthy blood pressure and supports bone health.
• Antioxidant-Rich: Dulce de leche contains antioxidants that help protect the body against free radicals and oxidative stress.
• Good Source of Manganese: Bananas are a good source of manganese, a mineral that plays a crucial role in the body’s antioxidant defenses and supports bone health.
• Supports Healthy Bones: The cake contains several minerals, including potassium, manganese, and copper, that are essential for maintaining healthy bones.
• Can Help Lower Cholesterol: The fiber and potassium in bananas can help lower cholesterol levels and support heart health.
• Supports Healthy Gut Bacteria: The prebiotic fiber in bananas helps feed the good bacteria in the gut, supporting a healthy gut microbiome.

How can you preserve leftovers of Dulce De Leche Banana Cake?

Short-Term Preservation:

• Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Refrigerate: Store the cake in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Long-Term Preservation:

• Freeze: Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw frozen cake at room temperature or reheat in the microwave or oven.
• Dehydrate: Slice the cake thinly and dehydrate in a food dehydrator or low-temperature oven (150°F – 200°F) for 3-4 hours. Store dried cake slices in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.

Tips:

• Use airtight containers: Store the cake in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent moisture from entering the container.
• Label and date containers: Label and date containers so you can easily keep track of how long the cake has been stored.
• Freeze individual slices: Freeze individual slices of cake to make it easier to thaw and serve as needed.
• Reheat safely: Reheat the cake in the microwave or oven until warmed through, but avoid overheating, which can cause the cake to dry out.

Conclusion

With its perfect balance of flavours and textures, this Dulce De Leche Banana Cake Recipe will surely become a new favourite in your household.

Whether you’re a fan of bananas, dulce de leche, or just great cake, this recipe has something for everyone.

So go ahead, try it, and experience the pure bliss of a moist, decadent, and utterly delicious cake that’s sure to satisfy any sweet tooth. Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

Q: Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?
A: Yes, overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe! They’re sweeter and softer, which makes them ideal for baking.

Q: How do I store leftover cake?
A: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make dulce de leche from scratch?
A: Yes, you can make dulce de leche from scratch by heating sweetened condensed milk in a water bath until it turns golden brown. However, store-bought dulce de leche works just as well.

Q: Can I substitute buttermilk with regular milk?
A: While you can substitute buttermilk with regular milk, keep in mind that the cake may not be as moist and tender.

Q: How do I ensure the cake is fully cooked?
A: Check the cake for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is fully cooked. If not, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes and check again.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a bundt pan?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe in a bundt pan! Just adjust the baking time accordingly and keep an eye on the cake to ensure it doesn’t overcook.