Name: Banana Bread Dump Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 6 pieces ripe bananas (mashed); 1 can evaporated milk ((12-oz)); 1 cup caramel sauce; 1 cup chopped pecans; 1 box cinnamon swirl cake mix ((21-oz)); 1/2 cup unsalted butter (thinly sliced)

If you love the comforting flavors of banana bread but want a quicker, easier way to enjoy it, then this Banana Bread Dump Cake is your new best friend. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this delightful dessert that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine the sweet aroma of ripe bananas mixing with warm caramel and buttery cake—seriously, what’s not to love? Let’s dive into the details of this delectable treat that combines the best of both worlds!

Why This Banana Bread Dump Cake Stands Out

This Banana Bread Dump Cake is an innovative twist on traditional banana bread, offering simplicity without sacrificing flavor. The beauty of this dish lies in its “dump cake” method, which means you just layer the ingredients in a pan and let them work their magic in the oven. This method not only saves time but also ensures that every bite is moist and bursting with flavor. With the rich taste of mashed bananas, the creaminess of evaporated milk, and the indulgence of caramel sauce, this dessert will surely become a family favorite.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this mouthwatering Banana Bread Dump Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

6 ripe bananas, mashed
1 (12-oz) can evaporated milk
1 cup caramel sauce
1 cup chopped pecans
1 (21-oz) box cinnamon swirl cake mix
1/2 cup unsalted butter, thinly sliced

Each ingredient contributes to the overall flavor and texture, making this dessert a comforting classic with a modern twist.

Before You Start: Equipment

Before you begin, gather the following equipment:

9×13 inch baking dish – Perfect for layering your cake.
Mixing bowl – For combining the mashed bananas and evaporated milk.
Spatula – To spread the ingredients evenly in the baking dish.
Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot pans!
Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements are key for a great outcome.

Having your tools ready will make the baking process smooth and enjoyable.

From Start to Finish: Banana Bread Dump Cake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for ensuring your Banana Bread Dump Cake bakes evenly.

Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish

Grease your 9×13 inch baking dish with a little butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. This will allow for easy serving once the cake is baked.

Step 3: Mix the Bananas and Milk

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas and evaporated milk. Stir until the ingredients are well blended. This mixture forms the moist base of your dump cake.

Step 4: Layer the Ingredients

Pour the banana and milk mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Then, drizzle the caramel sauce over the banana mixture, followed by a generous sprinkle of chopped pecans.

Step 5: Add the Cake Mix

Open the box of cinnamon swirl cake mix and sprinkle it evenly over the banana and caramel layers. Do not stir; this is a dump cake, so the layers will create their own delicious combinations as they bake.

Step 6: Top with Butter

Finally, take your thinly sliced butter and scatter it evenly over the top of the cake mix layer. This will melt during baking and create a deliciously rich topping.

Step 7: Bake

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the Banana Bread Dump Cake from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. This dessert is delicious warm, but it also holds up well at room temperature, making it perfect for gatherings.

Better-for-You Options

If you’re looking for ways to make this Banana Bread Dump Cake a bit healthier, consider these options:

Use whole wheat cake mix for added fiber.
Replace half the butter with unsweetened applesauce to reduce fat.
Opt for a low-sugar caramel sauce or make your own for a healthier alternative.
Substitute chopped walnuts for pecans for a different flavor and texture.

These alternatives can help you enjoy this delightful dessert while sticking to your dietary preferences.

Chef’s Notes

Here are a few tips to ensure your Banana Bread Dump Cake turns out perfectly:

Make sure your bananas are very ripe; the browner they are, the sweeter your cake will be.
Feel free to add chocolate chips or dried fruit for extra sweetness and texture.
This cake is perfect for breakfast, dessert, or even a snack—don’t be afraid to enjoy it any time of day!

Refrigerate, Freeze, Reheat

To keep your Banana Bread Dump Cake fresh:

Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
For longer storage, freeze the cake for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil.
To reheat, place a piece in the microwave for 30 seconds or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

Reader Q&A

Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

Yes! Just make sure to thaw and drain off any excess liquid from the frozen bananas before mashing them.

Can I use a different type of cake mix?

Absolutely! While cinnamon swirl adds a nice touch, you can use yellow or chocolate cake mix for a different flavor profile.

Is it possible to make this cake gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use a gluten-free cake mix, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free version of this Banana Bread Dump Cake.

Can I add other mix-ins to the cake?

Definitely! Feel free to add chocolate chips, shredded coconut, or even a swirl of peanut butter for added flavor and texture.

Desserts to Finish

If you enjoyed this Banana Bread Dump Cake, you might also love these delicious desserts:

In Closing

This Banana Bread Dump Cake is the perfect recipe to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your kitchen. It’s simple, delicious, and a fantastic way to use up those overripe bananas sitting on your counter. Whether you serve it at a family gathering, as a comforting dessert after dinner, or even for breakfast, it’s sure to be a hit. Remember, the magic of this cake lies in its layers of flavor and the ease of preparation. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a slice of heaven!