There’s something undeniably comforting about a slice of banana bread. The warm, sweet aroma wafting through the kitchen can instantly transport you back to cozy moments spent with loved ones. Now, imagine that goodness combined with the effortless appeal of a dump cake. Enter the Banana Bread Dump Cake, a delightful twist on two classic favorites that comes together in an instant. This easy-to-make dessert is perfect for those who want to enjoy a homemade treat without the fuss. The best part? It’s an incredibly forgiving recipe that allows for a bit of creativity along the way.
Reasons to Love Banana Bread Dump Cake
– Quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– No need for fancy baking skills; just mix and layer!
– Moist and flavorful, thanks to ripe bananas and rich evaporated milk.
– Perfect for using up overripe bananas that would otherwise go to waste.
– A crowd-pleaser that can be served warm with ice cream or chilled as a snack.
What We’re Using
- 6 ripe bananas, mashed – These provide the base flavor and moisture.
- 1 (12-oz) can evaporated milk – Adds richness to the cake.
- 1 cup caramel sauce – For a sweet, gooey layer of decadence.
- 1 cup chopped pecans – Adds a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.
- 1 (21-oz) box cinnamon swirl cake mix – The easy-to-use base of this dump cake.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, thinly sliced – Helps create a golden, crispy topping.
Kitchen Gear Checklist
- Mixing bowl – For combining your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – To ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
- 9×13-inch baking dish – Perfect size for this dump cake.
- Spatula – For spreading the cake mix evenly.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot dishes!
Method: Banana Bread Dump Cake
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your cake cooks evenly and thoroughly.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
Grease your 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Mash the Bananas
In a mixing bowl, mash the 6 ripe bananas until smooth. This will be the moist base for your cake.
Step 4: Add Evaporated Milk
Pour in the can of evaporated milk and mix until well combined with the mashed bananas.
Step 5: Layer the Mixture
Spread the banana and milk mixture evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
Step 6: Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
Drizzle the caramel sauce over the banana layer, distributing it as evenly as possible.
Step 7: Sprinkle Chopped Pecans
Evenly sprinkle the chopped pecans over the caramel layer for added texture and flavor.
Step 8: Add the Cake Mix
Sprinkle the entire box of cinnamon swirl cake mix over the pecans, ensuring it covers the mixture completely.
Step 9: Top with Butter
Place the thinly sliced pieces of unsalted butter evenly on top of the cake mix. This will melt and create a delicious crust.
Step 10: Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cake is set.
Step 11: Cool and Serve
Let the cake cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy it warm, or chill it for a refreshing treat!
Variations by Season
- Fall: Add a sprinkle of pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist.
- Winter: Incorporate chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a festive touch.
- Spring: Mix in some fresh blueberries or strawberries for a burst of color and flavor.
- Summer: Top with whipped cream and fresh fruit for a light dessert.
Little Things that Matter
Using overripe bananas is key for that deep banana flavor and natural sweetness. If you don’t have evaporated milk on hand, whole milk or a non-dairy alternative can work, but the richness may vary. Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts or almonds based on your preference. And remember, the more ripe the bananas, the better your dump cake will taste!
Store, Freeze & Reheat
To store leftovers, cover the cake with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will last in the fridge for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze pieces in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply microwave individual slices for about 30 seconds or until warm.
Common Qs About Banana Bread Dump Cake
Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before mashing.
What can I substitute for pecans?
Walnuts, almonds, or even sunflower seeds can be great alternatives to pecans.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it right before serving for the best texture.
How do I know when the dump cake is done baking?
The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Save & Share
If you love this Banana Bread Dump Cake, save it for later or share it with friends! It’s the perfect dessert for gatherings, potlucks, or even a cozy night in. Don’t forget to take a picture and tag us when you make it!
In conclusion, the Banana Bread Dump Cake is an easy and delicious recipe that brings together the best of comfort food. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a treat that everyone will love. Whether you enjoy it warm with a scoop of ice cream or chilled as a snack, this cake is sure to become a favorite. So gather your ingredients and whip up this delightful dessert today!
