Step 1: Prepare the Cake Batter
Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans or line them with parchment paper for easy removal.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to cream together 3/4 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
Add Bananas and Eggs: Mix in the mashed bananas, followed by the 3 large eggs one at a time. Add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and blend until smooth.
Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, mixing just until combined. Stir in 1 cup of chopped pecans.
Step 2: Bake the Cake
Pour Batter into Pans: Divide the batter evenly between the prepared pans. Smooth the tops with a spatula.
Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool: Once baked, remove from the oven and let the cakes cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. Then, transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
Step 3: Make the Caramel Sauce
