Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it offers a delightful balance of flavors and textures—fluffy sponge, silky cream, and gooey caramel. Despite its sophisticated look, it’s surprisingly approachable, making it a rewarding choice for both beginner and seasoned bakers.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Sponge:
- 4 large eggs, separated
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/4 cup powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
For the Caramel Sauce:
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
- Crushed graham crackers
- Banana slices
- Powdered sugar
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
- In a large bowl, beat egg yolks with 1/2 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in mashed bananas and vanilla extract.
- In another bowl, whisk egg whites to soft peaks, then gradually add 1/4 cup sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form.
- Sift together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Fold into the yolk mixture, then gently fold in the beaten egg whites.
- Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan and bake for 12–15 minutes.
- Immediately turn the baked sponge onto a clean towel dusted with powdered sugar, roll up the sponge with the towel, and let cool completely.
- For the filling, beat the heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until stiff peaks form.
- Unroll the cooled sponge, spread with whipped cream, and layer with sliced bananas. Re-roll tightly without the towel.
- For the caramel sauce, combine brown sugar, cream, butter, vanilla, and salt in a saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly until thickened.
- Drizzle the caramel sauce over the roulade and garnish with crushed graham crackers, banana slices, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Servings and Timing
This recipe makes about 10 slices and takes around 30 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to bake, totaling approximately 45 minutes.
Variations
- Substitute the banana slices with berries, cooked apples, or pears for a different fruity twist.
- Add chopped walnuts or pecans along with the bananas for a nutty crunch.
- Infuse the whipped cream with a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
Storage/Reheating
Store the roulade covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and moisture. The caramel sauce can be made ahead and stored separately, reheating gently before use if needed.
FAQs
Can I make this roulade gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
Can I use a different fruit instead of bananas?
Absolutely, berries, cooked apples, or pears can replace bananas for a different twist.
How do I prevent the sponge from cracking?
Make sure the sponge is not overbaked and roll it while still warm using a powdered sugar-dusted towel.
Can I prepare the caramel sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the caramel sauce can be made a day ahead and gently reheated when ready to use.
Can I freeze the roulade?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it without the caramel topping and thaw in the fridge before serving.
What if my whipped cream isn’t stiff enough?
Continue beating until peaks hold their shape firmly; using cold cream and utensils helps achieve stiff peaks.
Can I add chocolate to this roulade?
Yes, drizzle melted chocolate over the caramel for an extra decadent touch.
How can I make the roulade more festive?
Add holiday spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the sponge or filling, and decorate with festive sprinkles.
Can I use store-bought caramel sauce?
Yes, if you prefer a shortcut, use a high-quality store-bought caramel sauce.
What’s the best way to serve the roulade?
Slice with a sharp, serrated knife and serve chilled for the best texture and flavor.
Conclusion
Banana Caramel Roulade is a stunning and delicious dessert that brings together tender sponge cake, fluffy cream, and luscious caramel in every bite. With its beautiful presentation and incredible flavor, it’s guaranteed to become a standout star at your table, whether for everyday enjoyment or special celebrations!
Print
Banana Caramel Roulade
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Banana Caramel Roulade is a stunning dessert featuring a tender sponge cake rolled with whipped cream, ripe bananas, and topped with rich caramel sauce. Perfect for special occasions or casual celebrations, this elegant treat is as delicious as it is impressive.
Ingredients
For the Sponge:
4 large eggs, separated
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 ripe bananas, mashed
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Filling:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 ripe bananas, sliced
For the Caramel Sauce:
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup heavy cream
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
For Garnish:
Crushed graham crackers
Banana slices
Powdered sugar
Instructions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C); line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper.
-
Beat egg yolks and 1/2 cup sugar until light and fluffy. Stir in mashed bananas and vanilla.
-
Whisk egg whites to soft peaks, add 1/4 cup sugar, and beat to stiff peaks.
-
Sift flour, baking powder, and salt; fold into yolk mixture, then fold in egg whites.
-
Spread batter in prepared pan; bake 12–15 minutes.
-
Turn baked sponge onto powdered sugar-dusted towel, roll up, and cool.
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Beat cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla to stiff peaks for filling.
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Unroll sponge, spread with whipped cream, layer with sliced bananas, and re-roll.
-
Make caramel sauce by boiling brown sugar, cream, butter, vanilla, and salt until thickened.
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Drizzle caramel over roulade; garnish with graham crackers, banana slices, and powdered sugar.
Notes
Swap bananas with berries, cooked apples, or pears for variety.
Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch.
Spice up the whipped cream with cinnamon or nutmeg.
Freeze roulade (without caramel) if needed, and thaw before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
