The Banoffee Dessert Cake Recipe is a truly irresistible treat that combines the sweet richness of caramel, the natural creaminess of bananas, and the airy delight of whipped cream, all layered over a buttery sponge or crunchy graham cracker crust. It’s a no-bake wonder that tastes like a slice of heaven, perfect for impressing friends or simply indulging yourself on any day. If you’ve ever wanted to make a dessert that feels both luxurious and comfortingly familiar, this banoffee dessert cake recipe is the one to try.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a clear role, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures without overwhelming your kitchen or your schedule. From the smooth dulce de leche to the fresh bananas, every element is essential, making this dessert both approachable and unforgettable.
- Base (sponge cake layer or graham cracker crust): Provides structure and a rich, buttery foundation that holds everything together.
- 3 bananas, sliced: Adds natural sweetness and a tender, fruity texture that pairs flawlessly with caramel.
- 1 can dulce de leche or caramel sauce: Brings that iconic, creamy toffee flavor critical to the banoffee experience.
- 2 cups whipped cream: Offers lightness and a fluffy contrast to the dense caramel and bananas.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the cream’s flavor, making it more aromatic and luscious.
- Optional: chocolate shavings: Adds a hint of bitterness and an extra touch of decadence.
How to Make Banoffee Dessert Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by placing your sponge cake layer or graham cracker crust evenly in your serving dish. This will be the solid base that supports all the wonderful layers above, so make sure it is spread out flat and compacted slightly if using a crumb crust.
Step 2: Spread the Caramel Layer
Next, generously spread the dulce de leche or caramel sauce over the base. This luscious layer delivers the rich, buttery toffee flavor that banoffee is famous for, so don’t be shy here—cover the base with a thick, even layer.
Step 3: Add the Bananas
Arrange the sliced bananas in an even layer right on top of the caramel. The fresh fruit adds sweetness and moisture, perfectly balancing the caramel’s richness and ensuring every bite melts in your mouth.
Step 4: Whip the Cream and Spread
Whip your cream with the vanilla extract until soft peaks form. Spread this fluffy, fragrant cream gently over the bananas, creating a cloud-like top that lightens the whole dessert.
Step 5: Chill Before Serving
Cover your Banoffee Dessert Cake Recipe and chill it in the fridge for at least one hour. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set, making each slice smooth, cohesive, and utterly delicious.
How to Serve Banoffee Dessert Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chocolate shavings on top is a beautiful way to add contrast and a little crunch. Fresh mint leaves or a dusting of cocoa powder also enhance the cake’s presentation without taking away from its signature flavors.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs wonderfully with a simple cup of black coffee or a warm chai latte. If you want something light, serve it alongside fresh berries or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create an indulgent dessert spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning twist, try serving the banoffee dessert cake recipe in individual glass jars or clear cups, showcasing the beautiful layers of caramel, bananas, and cream. This creates an elegant single-serving presentation that’s perfect for parties or special occasions.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container and keep it refrigerated. It should stay fresh for up to 2 days, maintaining the perfect balance between creamy and firm without the bananas turning mushy.
Freezing
Though this dessert is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to one month. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving, but note the bananas may become a little softer after freezing.
Reheating
Since this is a no-bake dessert, reheating is not recommended. Instead, simply bring it to room temperature for about 10 minutes before serving to soften the caramel slightly and enhance the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of crust for the base?
Absolutely! While sponge cake or graham cracker crusts are traditional, crushed digestive biscuits or even a nut-based crust work beautifully if you want to add an extra dimension of flavor and texture.
Is it possible to make this dessert vegan?
You can make some adjustments, such as using coconut whipped cream and a vegan caramel sauce, along with a plant-based crust. Just be sure each ingredient fits your dietary needs for a fully vegan banoffee dessert cake recipe.
How ripe should the bananas be for the best flavor?
Bananas should be ripe but still firm—too green and they won’t be sweet enough, too ripe and they might become mushy. Look for bananas that are bright yellow with just a few brown spots.
Can I prepare this dessert ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! Preparing the banoffee dessert cake recipe a day in advance lets the flavors meld wonderfully. Just keep it well-covered in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.
What can I substitute for dulce de leche if I can’t find it?
If dulce de leche isn’t available, thick caramel sauce or even a homemade caramel made by gently simmering sweetened condensed milk can be great alternatives that still capture the spirit of the dessert.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a dessert that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Banoffee Dessert Cake Recipe is exactly what you need in your life. It’s straightforward, crowd-pleasing, and endlessly delicious. I can’t wait for you to try making this at home and watch it become a favorite for every special occasion or simple sweet craving.
Print
Banoffee Dessert Cake Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A luscious no-bake Banoffee Dessert Cake featuring layers of sweet caramel, fresh banana slices, whipped cream, and a buttery sponge or graham cracker crust, perfect for an indulgent British-inspired treat.
Ingredients
Base
- 1 sponge cake layer or graham cracker crust
Filling
- 3 bananas, sliced
- 1 can dulce de leche or caramel sauce (about 14 oz)
- 2 cups whipped cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Optional: chocolate shavings for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Place the sponge cake layer or graham cracker crust evenly at the bottom of a serving dish to form a sturdy foundation for the dessert.
- Spread the caramel: Generously spread a thick layer of dulce de leche or caramel sauce over the base, ensuring an even coverage to impart rich sweetness.
- Add the bananas: Arrange the sliced bananas evenly over the caramel layer, providing a fresh and fruity contrast to the sweet toffee.
- Whip and spread cream: In a bowl, whip the cream until soft peaks form, then fold in the vanilla extract. Spread this whipped cream mixture gently and evenly over the banana layer.
- Chill the dessert: Refrigerate the entire assembled cake for at least 1 hour to allow the layers to set and flavors to meld perfectly.
- Optional garnish: Before serving, sprinkle with chocolate shavings for added texture and a hint of chocolate flavor.
Notes
- For added structure and crunch, incorporate a layer of crushed cookies beneath the caramel.
- Replace whipped cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangier version of the dessert.
- Ensure bananas are fresh and firm to prevent browning and maintain texture.
- This dessert is best served chilled and within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: British-Inspired
