Bananas Foster Cake is a luxurious dessert inspired by the classic New Orleans dish, Bananas Foster. This recipe from Louisiana Cookin transforms the beloved flavors of caramelized bananas, rum, and brown sugar into a show-stopping layer cake. With its tender banana-infused layers, a rich rum frosting, and caramelized banana topping, this cake makes a perfect centerpiece for celebrations or a memorable ending to a dinner party. To make this luscious dessert, follow the detailed recipe below, complete with tips for success and pairing suggestions.
Ingredients:
- 4 slightly under-ripe large bananas, sliced crosswise ½ inch thick
- 1 large ripe banana, sliced crosswise ¼ inch thick
- ½ cup mashed banana (about 1 large banana)
- 4 large eggs
- 3½ cups cake flour
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 cup dark rum, divided
- ½ cup banana liqueur
- 4 cups ofunsalted butter, softened
- 1 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 pound confectioners’ sugar
- 4 cups firmly packed light brown sugar
- ¾ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray three 9-inch round cake pans with baking spray that includes flour. Line the bottoms with parchment paper to ensure easy release later.
- In the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment, beat the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar together on medium speed. Continue mixing for 3–4 minutes, scraping the sides of the bowl occasionally, until the mixture is light and fluffy. Blend in the mashed banana. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and kosher salt. On low speed, alternate adding the flour mixture with the milk and rum to the butter mixture, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix each addition just until combined. Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula if necessary.
- Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the cakes cool in their pans for 10 minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely.
- Start by placing one cooled cake layer on a serving plate. Spread ⅓ cup of the Rum Brown Sugar Frostingevenly across the top. Using a slotted spoon, layer half of the caramelized bananas from the Bananas Foster Filling over the frosting, and drizzle with 3 tablespoons of the filling’s sauce. Add the second cake layer and repeat the process. Place the final layer on top, spreading the remaining frosting across the sides and top of the cake.
- Transfer 1 cup of the frosting into a pastry bag fitted with a large open star tip (Wilton 1M is recommended). Pipe decorative swirls around the top edge of the cake. Top the cake with brûléed banana slices, made by coating banana rounds in granulated sugar and caramelizing the tops with a kitchen torch or broiler. Drizzle any remaining sauce over the finished cake.
This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream or a dollop of fresh whipped cream. For a complete dessert experience, serve alongside freshly brewed coffee or a shot of espresso. If you’re hosting a dinner party, complement this indulgent cake with lighter main dishes, such as an herb-roasted chicken or grilled salmon, to balance the meal.
Banana Fosters Cake is a delightful fusion of nostalgia and elegance, bringing the flavors of a classic Southern dessert to the world of layer cakes. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or indulging in a well-deserved treat, this recipe is sure to impress both in flavor and presentation.
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