Banana Cake Roll Recipe

Easy Banana Cake Roll Recipe: A Sweet Treat That’s Ready in a Flash

Sweet banana cake rolls represent a delightful dessert that revolutionizes ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary culinary experience.

Soft, moist textures blend seamlessly with rich, creamy fillings that promise pure indulgence.

Bakers adore this elegant treat for its impressive presentation and surprisingly simple preparation method.

Delicate rolling techniques create a visually stunning dessert that looks far more complicated than its actual construction.

Fluffy cake layers wrapped around smooth, decadent cream capture the essence of comfort and celebration in every single bite.

Seasonal ingredients elevate this classic recipe, making it adaptable to various flavor preferences and special occasions.

Your kitchen will soon become a playground of sweet creativity and delectable possibilities.

What to Serve with Banana Cake Roll

  • Brew Creamy Coffee Companions: Pair this banana cake roll with a velvety latte or cappuccino to complement the cake's rich, creamy filling and enhance its sweet banana flavor.
  • Sip Caramel-Inspired Beverages: Match the cake with a salted caramel hot chocolate or caramel macchiato to echo the drizzled caramel topping and create a decadent dessert experience.
  • Balance with Refreshing Contrasts: Serve alongside a cold glass of milk or a light, crisp white wine like Moscato to cut through the cake's sweetness and provide a refreshing palate cleanser.
  • Elevate with Spiced Tea Pairings: Enjoy with a warm chai tea or cinnamon-spiced herbal tea that mirrors the cake's subtle cinnamon notes and adds depth to the dessert.

Banana Cake Roll Variations You’ll Want to Try

  • Tropical Paradise Roll: Swap mashed bananas with crushed pineapple and add shredded coconut to the batter for a Hawaiian-inspired cake that brings beachy vibes to your dessert.
  • Nutty Banana Crunch: Mix chopped walnuts or pecans into the cake batter and sprinkle extra nuts between the filling and cake layer for added texture and rich flavor.
  • Chocolate Banana Swirl: Fold melted dark chocolate into half the batter, creating a marbled effect, and incorporate cocoa powder into the cream cheese filling for a decadent chocolate-banana combination.
  • Spiced Autumn Roll: Replace cinnamon with pumpkin pie spice, add a touch of ground ginger, and incorporate cream cheese filling with maple extract for a cozy seasonal version of the classic cake roll.

What’s Special About Banana Cake Roll

  • Capture Banana Bliss: This recipe transforms ordinary bananas into a stunning dessert roll that bursts with sweet, comforting flavors and looks impressive on any table.
  • Effortless Elegance: The simple method of rolling the cake while warm creates a beautiful swirl without requiring advanced baking skills, making it perfect for home cooks seeking a show-stopping treat.
  • Creamy Dreamy Filling: The luscious cream cheese and whipped topping filling adds a rich, smooth texture that perfectly complements the soft, tender banana cake, creating a delightful contrast in every bite.
  • Make-Ahead Magic: This versatile dessert can be prepared in advance and chilled, making it an ideal option for stress-free entertaining and special occasions like family gatherings or potluck parties.

Everything That Goes into Banana Cake Roll

Cake Base Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Fine, light flour that provides the cake's structure and soft texture.
  • Baking Powder: Essential leavening agent to help the cake rise and become fluffy.
  • Baking Soda: Helps the cake achieve a light and tender crumb.
  • Ground Cinnamon: Warm spice that adds depth and complements banana flavor.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Eggs: Provide structure, richness, and help bind the cake together.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweetens and helps create a tender cake texture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, aromatic flavor to the cake.
  • Ripe Bananas: Provide natural sweetness, moisture, and distinct banana flavor.
Filling and Topping Ingredients:
  • Cream Cheese: Creamy base for the filling with tangy, rich flavor.
  • Brown Sugar: Adds depth and caramel-like sweetness to the filling.
  • Whipped Topping: Provides light, airy texture to the cream cheese filling.
  • Powdered Sugar: Used for dusting and adding light sweetness.
  • Caramel Topping: Adds extra sweetness and decorative drizzle.

How to Prepare a Banana Cake Roll

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Warm up the oven to 375°F. Line a jelly roll pan with parchment paper and lightly coat with cooking spray.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, combine:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Ground cinnamon
  • Baking soda
  • Salt

Whisk these ingredients until well blended.

Step 3: Create Banana Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whip eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes thick and pale. Stir in:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Mashed ripe bananas

Mix until smooth and creamy.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually fold the flour mixture into the banana mixture. Stir gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Spread the batter evenly in the prepared pan. Slide into the preheated oven and bake for 12-15 minutes. The cake is ready when it springs back lightly when touched.

Step 6: Roll the Warm Cake

Immediately after removing from the oven, loosen the cake edges. Flip onto a clean kitchen towel generously dusted with powdered sugar. Carefully roll the cake with the towel from the short end. Let it cool completely.

Step 7: Prepare Creamy Filling

In a mixing bowl, blend:
  • Cream cheese
  • Brown sugar
  • Vanilla extract

Beat until smooth and creamy. Gently fold in whipped topping.

Step 8: Fill and Reroll the Cake

Carefully unroll the cooled cake. Spread the filling evenly across the surface. Reroll the cake without the towel, creating a beautiful swirl.

Step 9: Chill and Serve

Refrigerate the cake roll for at least 1 hour to set. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with caramel topping for extra indulgence.

Tips to Perfect Your Banana Cake Roll

  • Banana Brilliance: Use overripe bananas for maximum sweetness and deeper flavor in your cake roll.
  • Roll with Precision: Dust the towel generously with powdered sugar to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth cake roll.
  • Moisture Magic: Don't overmix the batter to keep the cake tender and prevent a tough texture.
  • Filling Finesse: Ensure cream cheese is at room temperature for a smooth, lump-free filling that spreads easily.
  • Cooling Technique: Let the rolled cake cool completely before adding filling to prevent melting and maintain structural integrity.

Banana Cake Roll Storage and Reheat Tips

  • Storage
  • Wrap the banana cake roll tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor. Keep the cake roll in an airtight container to preserve its soft texture.
  • Freezing
  • Place the cake roll in a freezer-safe container or wrap it securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving to preserve its delicate texture.
  • Reheating
  • Gently warm individual slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds on low power. Alternatively, let the cake roll sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving to restore its original soft consistency. Avoid overheating to prevent the cake from becoming dry or tough.
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Banana Cake Roll Recipe

Banana Cake Roll Recipe


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4.6 from 35 reviews

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Banana cake roll delivers a delightful spiral of creamy sweetness wrapped in delicate banana-infused sponge. Rich cream cheese filling and tender cake create a perfect dessert that will tempt your taste buds with classic comfort and elegant presentation.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 3 eggs
  • ½ cup mashed bananas (1 medium-sized banana)
  • ¾ cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 4 ounces (113 grams) cream cheese, softened

Spices and Leavening Agents:

  • ½ teaspoon baking powder
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt

Additional Ingredients:

  • 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
  • ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
  • ¾ cup whipped topping
  • ½ cup powdered sugar (divided for dusting)
  • 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
  • 3 tablespoons caramel sundae topping

Instructions

  1. Prepare the baking surface by lining a 15 x 10 inch (38 x 25 centimeters) jelly roll pan with parchment paper, ensuring complete coverage and light greasing.
  2. Sift together flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, baking soda, and salt in a medium mixing bowl, creating a uniform dry ingredient blend.
  3. In a separate large bowl, vigorously whip eggs and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light, fluffy, and pale yellow in color.
  4. Incorporate vanilla extract and mashed ripe bananas into the egg mixture, blending until smooth and well-combined.
  5. Gently fold the dry ingredient mixture into the banana batter, stirring minimally to prevent overmixing and maintain a light texture.
  6. Evenly distribute the batter across the prepared pan, using a spatula to create a smooth, consistent layer.
  7. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes, watching for a golden surface and checking that the cake springs back when lightly touched.
  8. Immediately after removing from the oven, carefully loosen the cake edges and invert onto a clean kitchen towel generously dusted with powdered sugar.
  9. Tightly roll the warm cake with the towel, starting from the shorter end, and allow to cool completely at room temperature.
  10. Prepare the filling by whipping cream cheese, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
  11. Gently fold whipped topping into the cream cheese mixture, creating a light and airy filling.
  12. Carefully unroll the cooled cake, spreading the filling evenly across the surface.
  13. Reroll the cake without the towel, ensuring a tight and uniform shape.
  14. Refrigerate the rolled cake for at least one hour to set the filling and enhance flavor.
  15. Before serving, dust with additional powdered sugar and drizzle with caramel topping for a decadent finish.

Notes

  • Learn this recipe requires precise timing and technique for a perfect rolled cake texture.
  • Dust the kitchen towel generously with powdered sugar to prevent the warm cake from sticking during the initial rolling.
  • Ensure bananas are very ripe and well-mashed for maximum sweetness and moisture in the cake.
  • Work quickly when rolling and unrolling the cake to maintain its flexibility and prevent cracking.
  • Chill the cake roll for at least an hour to help the filling set and enhance the flavor blending.
  • Use room temperature cream cheese for a smoother, lump-free filling that spreads easily.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Desserts, Snacks
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Sugar: 24 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 4 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Creator

Expertise

Simple Everyday Recipes, Sustainable Cooking Practices, Creative Meal Planning, Recipe Testing and Improvement

Education

Fox Valley Technical College, Appleton, Wisconsin

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Practical culinary training, fundamental cooking techniques, meal planning, and using fresh, local ingredients.

Lake Superior College, Duluth, Minnesota

  • Program: Certificate in Sustainable Food Systems
  • Focus: Cooking methods that promote sustainability, farm-to-table practices, and eco-friendly meal creation.

Lucas Bennett’s cooking journey started in his parents’ kitchen, where he learned to prepare tasty, no-fuss meals from scratch. His culinary passion led him to Fox Valley Technical College, where he gained practical cooking skills.
He then expanded his focus on sustainability at Lake Superior College. Today, Lucas shares easy, approachable recipes designed to make cooking enjoyable and stress-free for everyone.

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