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Caramel Banana Nut Layered

Category: Sweet Treats to Satisfy Any Craving

Caramel banana nut layered dessert features creamy whipped filling, soft cake or cookie crumbs, and sweet banana slices. Toasted pecans or walnuts add crunch while warm caramel sauce seeps into each layer. Assembled in a trifle or baking dish, this chilled treat is best prepared ahead to allow flavors to meld. The final touch—extra caramel drizzle, whole nuts, and fresh banana—makes a showstopping finish for family gatherings. Chill well before serving to achieve the perfect creamy, nutty bite in every spoonful.

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Loura is a chef and she is standing in front of a table full of fruits and vegetables.
Updated on Thu, 10 Jul 2025 20:24:03 GMT
A slice of cake with bananas and walnuts. Save
A slice of cake with bananas and walnuts. | recipesfoodyummy.com

Caramel banana nut layered dessert has become my go-to treat when I want something crowd-pleasing and nostalgic. The contrast of sweet bananas creamy filling crunchy nuts and gooey caramel feels decadent yet is so easy to prepare. This is especially perfect for potlucks or holiday gatherings since you can make it ahead and let the magic happen in the fridge.

When I first brought this to my book club everyone begged for the recipe. It disappears fast and always gets rave reviews.

Ingredients

  • Yellow or spice cake mix or crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers: Excellent base for soaking up caramel and adding texture. Pick a quality boxed cake or crunchy cookies with real butter flavor
  • Cream cheese: Make sure it is full fat for a richer filling. Let it sit at room temperature so it blends easily without lumps
  • Powdered sugar: Sweetens the filling gently and dissolves smoothly
  • Vanilla extract: Gives depth to the creamy layer. Use pure vanilla if you can
  • Frozen whipped topping: Adds luscious fluff and volume to the filling. Thaw completely or it will not mix in well
  • Ripe bananas: Pick bananas with plenty of brown speckles for maximum flavor and aroma
  • Caramel sauce: Slightly warm for easy drizzling. Choose a thick style with real dairy or make your own for extra richness
  • Pecans or walnuts: Toast these for aroma and crunch. Freshly chopped always tastes best
  • Extra nuts and banana slices: For a festive garnish and extra crunch. Only add bananas at the last minute to keep them fresh

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Base Layer:
If using cake bake in a nine by thirteen pan according to box directions. Cool completely then crumble into big pieces. If using cookies crush them and mix with melted butter then press into the dish to create a firm layer and chill
Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling:
In a large bowl beat softened cream cheese until creamy. Add powdered sugar and vanilla and mix until smooth and fluffy. Gently fold in thawed whipped topping using a spatula so the mixture stays light and airy
First Layer Assembly:
Spread one third of cake or crumb mixture across the dish. Add a single layer of half the banana slices. Dollop and gently spread one third of the cream cheese filling over bananas. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with toasted nuts
Repeat and Finish Layers:
Add another third of crumbs then remaining banana slices followed by more cream cheese filling caramel and nuts. Finish with the last of the crumbs top with remaining cream cheese then a thick caramel drizzle and final nuts
Chill and Garnish:
Cover and refrigerate at least four hours to allow everything to meld. Just before serving top with whole pecans or walnut pieces and fresh banana slices for a gorgeous finish
A slice of cake with bananas and walnuts. Save
A slice of cake with bananas and walnuts. | recipesfoodyummy.com

I especially love the way the toasted nuts balance out the richness and sweetness. My grandma and I used to toast nuts together for holiday desserts and the scent always brings back those cozy kitchen memories.

Storage Tips

Leftovers should be tightly covered and stored in the fridge. This dessert stays fresh for up to three days. Add extra fresh banana slices just before serving since they can brown over time. I do not recommend freezing as the texture of the bananas and cream cheese filling can be affected.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a gluten free version use your favorite gluten free cookies for the base. If you are out of cream cheese swap in mascarpone. Dairy free whipped topping and vegan caramel also work well.

Serving Suggestions

Serve chilled straight from the dish with a big spoon or layer into individual cups for a prettier presentation. I often set out a bowl of extra caramel and nuts so everyone can customize each slice. A scoop of vanilla ice cream turns it into the ultimate sundae.

Cultural Note

Layered desserts like this have always been a staple at Southern get togethers. The tradition of combining cake cream and fruit in a dish goes back generations and always brings people together with comfort and joy.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a no-bake crust instead of cake?

Yes, you can substitute cake with crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers mixed with melted butter to form a no-bake crust.

→ What kind of nuts work best for the topping?

Pecans and walnuts are ideal for their rich, toasty flavor. Lightly toasting enhances their crunch and aroma.

→ How long should this dessert chill before serving?

For best results, chill for at least 4 hours or overnight to set the layers and allow the flavors to meld.

→ Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for assembling a day ahead. Add fresh bananas and final garnishes just before serving.

→ How do I keep bananas from browning?

Layering bananas between cream and crumb helps slow browning. Add fresh slices for garnish right before serving.

→ Can I use homemade caramel sauce?

Absolutely! Homemade caramel adds a deeper flavor, but store-bought sauce works well for convenience.

Caramel Banana Nut Layered

Creamy layers of banana, caramel, and toasted nuts blend over cake or cookie crumbles for an irresistible chilled treat.

Prep Time
30 mins
Cooking Time
~
Total Duration
30 mins
By: Loura

Recipe Type: Desserts

Skill Level: Intermediate

Cuisine: American

Portions Yielded: 10 Serving Size (1 large layered trifle dessert)

Dietary Preferences: Vegetarian

What You'll Need

→ Cake or Crumb Base

01 1 box (approximately 425 g) yellow or spice cake mix, prepared and cooled, or pre-made cake crumbs
02 Alternative: 200 g crushed vanilla wafers or graham crackers, combined with 115 g melted butter for no-bake crumb base

→ Cream Cheese Filling

03 450 g cream cheese, softened to room temperature
04 120 g powdered sugar
05 5 ml vanilla extract
06 340 g frozen whipped topping, thawed

→ Assembly and Topping

07 3 to 4 ripe bananas, sliced
08 480 ml caramel sauce, slightly warmed
09 120 g chopped pecans or walnuts, toasted
10 Whole pecans and walnut pieces, for garnish
11 Additional banana slices, for garnish (optional)

Steps To Follow

Step 01

For baked option: Bake cake mix according to package instructions in a 23 x 33 cm dish. Allow to cool completely, then crumble coarsely. For no-bake option: Mix crushed wafers or crackers with melted butter, press into the dish, and refrigerate until set.

Step 02

In a large bowl, beat softened cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar and vanilla extract, beating until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the thawed whipped topping until mixture is uniform.

Step 03

In a glass trifle or serving dish, arrange one-third of crumb base evenly. Top with half of the banana slices, then spoon one-third of the cream cheese mixture over bananas. Drizzle with caramel sauce and scatter one-third of the toasted nuts.

Step 04

Add another third of the crumb base, the remaining banana slices, another third of cream cheese mixture, more caramel, and another layer of nuts.

Step 05

Top with final third of crumbs, the rest of the cream cheese mixture, and a generous drizzle of caramel. Sprinkle with remaining toasted nuts. Cover and refrigerate the assembled dessert for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow flavors to meld and layers to set.

Step 06

Right before serving, decorate with whole pecans, extra nut pieces, and fresh banana slices if desired. Serve with additional caramel sauce on the side.

Notes and Tips

  1. Ensure the whipped topping is fully thawed and cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth filling.
  2. For best texture and flavor, allow the dessert to chill overnight before serving.

Required Equipment

  • 23 x 33 cm (9 x 13 inch) baking or serving dish
  • Large mixing bowls
  • Electric mixer
  • Spatula

Allergy Info

Double-check every ingredient for possible allergens and consult a health professional if you're unsure.
  • Contains milk and dairy products
  • Contains eggs (if cake mix requires)
  • Contains wheat and gluten
  • Contains tree nuts (pecans or walnuts)

Nutritional Info (per serving)

These details are for informational purposes only and shouldn't replace medical advice.
  • Caloric Content: 410
  • Fats: 23 g
  • Carbohydrates: 47 g
  • Proteins: 5 g