Name: Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling and Caramel Topping Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 13 min
Total time: 1 h 32 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 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 (1 medium-sized banana); 4 ounces cream cheese (softened); ⅓ cup light brown sugar (packed); 1 tsp vanilla extract; ¾ cup whipped topping; ½ cup powdered sugar (divided, for dusting); 1 tbsp powdered sugar (for final dusting); 3 tbsp caramel sundae topping

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 84 reviews

If you adore comforting desserts that bring a burst of flavor and a show-stopping presentation, you will fall in love with this Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling and Caramel Topping Recipe. It’s a delightful fusion of moist banana cake gently wrapped around a luscious cream cheese filling, all crowned with a sticky, sweet caramel drizzle. This recipe combines classic ingredients in a way that feels both nostalgic and special, making it perfect for everything from cozy family treats to impressing guests at your next gathering. Imagine soft cake, creamy filling, and gooey caramel coming together in each bite—pure bliss!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a small round cake with four visible layers of light brown sponge separated by three thin layers of creamy white filling. The top layer is covered with a smooth caramel-colored sauce that drips down the sides. A piece of cake is lifted slightly by a fork held by a woman's hand, revealing the soft texture inside. The cake sits on a simple white plate on a white marbled surface, with a blurred background showing another similar cake and soft light coming from behind. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Simple, everyday ingredients come together effortlessly to create the magic of this banana cake roll. Each element plays an important role, from the flour providing structure to the bananas adding moisture and natural sweetness. The cream cheese and caramel take this from a basic cake to an irresistible dessert masterpiece.

¾ cup all-purpose flour: Gives the cake its tender crumb and structure.
½ tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise just enough to stay light and fluffy.
½ tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a warm, comforting spice that complements bananas beautifully.
¼ tsp baking soda: Works with the acid in bananas for a perfect rise.
¼ tsp salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors and balances the overall taste.
3 eggs: Provide richness and stability to the batter.
½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake while helping it brown nicely.
1½ tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the cake with a lovely fragrant warmth.
½ cup mashed bananas (about 1 medium-sized banana): The star of the show delivering moisture, sweetness, and banana flavor.
½ cup powdered sugar (divided for dusting): Adds a delicate sweetness and prevents sticking when rolling the cake.
4 ounces cream cheese (softened): Creates a rich, tangy filling that balances the sweet banana cake.
⅓ cup light brown sugar (packed): Brings a deeper sweetness and caramel notes to the cream cheese filling.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Enhances the flavor of the filling with a sweet aroma.
¾ cup whipped topping: Lightens the cream cheese filling for a fluffy, airy texture.
1 tbsp powdered sugar: For the finishing dust on the cake roll.
3 tbsp caramel sundae topping: The luscious finishing glaze that makes every bite indulgent and irresistible.

How to Make Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling and Caramel Topping Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Pan and Oven

Kick things off by preheating your oven to 375 degrees. Line a 15x10x1 jelly roll pan with parchment paper and give it a quick spritz of nonstick spray—this ensures your cake will slide out like a dream later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, and salt. These dry ingredients set the stage for a perfectly textured cake with just the right hint of spice.

Step 3: Beat the Eggs and Sugar

Using a stand mixer or handheld mixer, beat the eggs, granulated sugar, and vanilla on high for 4 to 5 minutes until pale and frothy—this aerates the batter, giving the cake a tender lightness.

Step 4: Add Mashed Bananas

Fold the mashed bananas into your egg mixture on medium speed until blended thoroughly. The bananas bring moisture and that perfect natural sweetness.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gently fold the dry flour mixture into the wet ingredients with a silicone spatula to avoid deflating the batter. This keeps your cake soft and airy.

Step 6: Bake the Cake

Pour and spread the batter evenly in your prepared pan using a spatula. Bake for 12 to 13 minutes until the cake springs back lightly to the touch. This quick bake preserves the moisture and keeps the cake pliable for rolling.

Step 7: Roll the Cake While Warm

Once out of the oven, run a sharp knife around the edges not covered by parchment. Then dust a clean tea towel heavily with powdered sugar and flip the cake onto it immediately. Carefully peel off the parchment, fold one end of the towel over the cake, and gently roll it up. This first roll helps your cake remember its shape and prevents cracking at the cranky edges.

Step 8: Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling

Beat the softened cream cheese, light brown sugar, and vanilla extract until smooth. Fold in the whipped topping for a cloud-like filling that perfectly complements the banana flavor.

Step 9: Assemble the Cake Roll

After the cake cools completely, unroll it carefully—even if a few cracks appear, it’s okay. Spread the cream cheese filling evenly, avoiding the edges to prevent seepage. Slowly roll it back up with gentle but firm pressure, then wrap tightly in plastic cling wrap. Chill in the refrigerator for at least one hour to help it set beautifully.

Step 10: Add the Finishing Touches

Just before serving, dust the cake roll with the remaining tablespoon of powdered sugar and drizzle the caramel sundae topping generously on top for that irresistible gooey finish. Slice into half-inch servings and enjoy every scrumptious bite.

How to Serve Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling and Caramel Topping Recipe

The image shows two slices of a rolled cake on two white plates, each slice featuring two layers: a light brown outer cake layer with a crumbly texture, and a creamy beige swirl filling inside. One slice is fully visible with a silver fork resting next to it on the plate, while the other plate holds part of the second slice at the top left. To the right, part of the full rolled cake is visible on a white rectangular plate, topped with a shiny caramel glaze that drips slightly over the edge. A small white jug with caramel sauce is in the bottom right corner. The whole scene is set on a white marbled surface, and part of a white cloth with thin black stripes lies near the bottom left. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dessert further, try topping each slice with a few toasted chopped nuts or a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg. A dollop of whipped cream or a few banana chips on the side can add a delightful crunch and visual appeal, making every presentation unique.

Side Dishes

This banana cake roll pairs wonderfully with a simple scoop of vanilla ice cream or a fresh berry compote to balance the sweetness. For a refreshing counterpoint, a cup of hot black coffee or a mildly spiced chai tea will complement the caramel and cream cheese notes perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re feeling playful, serve slices with a drizzle of chocolate sauce in addition to caramel or create mini individual rolls for bite-sized delights at parties. Layering slices in a trifle bowl with sliced bananas and whipped cream transforms this recipe into a decadent dessert parfait everyone will rave about.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can keep any leftover banana cake roll tightly wrapped in plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and keeps the cream cheese filling fresh and luscious.

Freezing

Wrap the cake roll tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will freeze well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator to maintain that perfect texture and flavor.

Reheating

While best enjoyed chilled, if you prefer a slightly softer texture, let the thawed cake roll sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes before slicing. Avoid microwaving as it can cause the cream cheese filling to lose its velvety texture.

FAQs

Can I substitute bananas with another fruit in this Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling and Caramel Topping Recipe?

While bananas provide the essential moisture and flavor in this cake roll, you could experiment with mashed cooked sweet potatoes or pumpkin, but it will change the taste and texture considerably. For best results, stick with bananas for this particular recipe.

What if my cake cracks when rolling?

Don’t worry! A few small cracks are perfectly normal, especially if the cake cools too much before rolling. Dusting the tea towel with powdered sugar and rolling the cake while it’s warm helps prevent this. If cracks appear, simply continue rolling gently—the cream cheese filling and chilling help hide imperfections.

Can I make the cream cheese filling ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Give it a gentle whisk before spreading to restore its fluffiness if needed.

Is there a way to make this recipe dairy-free?

You can try substituting the cream cheese with a dairy-free or vegan cream cheese alternative and use coconut whipped topping. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may differ slightly, but it’s a lovely option for those with dietary restrictions.

How long does it take to make this Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling and Caramel Topping Recipe?

The entire process usually takes about an hour and a half, including baking, cooling, assembling, and chilling. The active prep time is relatively short, making it a great project for a leisurely afternoon or special occasion.

Final Thoughts

This Banana Cake Roll with Cream Cheese Filling and Caramel Topping Recipe has quickly become one of my all-time favorites to share. It’s the kind of dessert that feels like a warm hug with every bite—comforting, indulgent, and just a little bit fancy. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, I promise it will bring smiles and requests for seconds. Give it a try and watch this stunning cake roll become a beloved recipe in your collection.