Banana Cake Roll

Banana lovers, rejoice! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that turns the humble banana into a show-stopping dessert: the Banana Cake Roll. This delightful treat wraps the comforting flavors of banana bread with a creamy, sweet filling, making it the perfect end to any meal or a special treat for afternoon tea.

Ingredients

For the Cake:

• ¾ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ¼ tsp salt
• 3 eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1½ tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup mashed bananas (about 1 medium-sized banana)
• ½ cup powdered sugar (divided, for dusting)

For the Filling:

• 4 ounces cream cheese, softened
• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ¾ cup whipped topping

For the Topping:

• 1 tbsp powdered sugar
• 3 tbsp caramel sundae topping

Directions

1. Prepare the Oven and Pan:
   • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   • Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly grease it.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients:
   • In a medium bowl, combine flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt.
3. Prepare Banana Mixture:
   • In a large bowl, beat eggs and granulated sugar until thick and pale.
   • Mix in vanilla extract and mashed bananas.
4. Combine and Bake:
   • Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the banana mixture just until incorporated.
   • Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan.
   • Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the cake springs back when touched lightly.
5. Roll the Cake:
   • Immediately after baking, loosen the edges of the cake.
   • Turn it out onto a clean kitchen towel dusted with powdered sugar.
   • Roll the cake up with the towel from the short end and allow it to cool completely.
6. Make the Filling:
   • Beat the cream cheese, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth.
   • Fold in the whipped topping.
7. Assemble the Cake Roll:
   • Carefully unroll the cake.
   • Spread the filling evenly over the cake.
   • Reroll the cake without the towel.
   • Chill in the refrigerator before serving to set the filling.
8. Add Finishing Touches:
   • Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with caramel topping before serving.

Serving and Nutritional Info

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Calories: 320 kcal per serving
• Servings: 8

This Banana Cake Roll is not only a joy to make but also a delight to serve. The swirls of creamy filling and soft, spongy cake make each slice a beautiful and tasty treat. Enjoy crafting this delicious dessert that’s sure to impress at your next gathering, or simply indulge in a slice with your afternoon coffee. Happy baking!