Indulge in the ultimate sweet treat with these irresistible Caramel Banana Cupcakes. Each bite promises a delightful journey, featuring moist banana cupcakes, a hidden gooey caramel surprise at their heart, and a luscious topping of creamy caramel and banana buttercream. This recipe transforms ripe bananas into a truly exceptional dessert experience.
If you’re a true enthusiast of banana-infused desserts, you’ll be thrilled to discover more delightful recipes like these Banana Chocolate Chip Cookies or a classic Banana Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting. Each offers a unique way to enjoy the sweet, comforting flavor of ripe bananas.

A few weeks ago, I found myself with an abundance of beautifully ripe bananas, practically begging to be transformed into something delicious. It was the perfect opportunity to revisit and refresh this beloved cupcake recipe from my archives. In my kitchen, there’s no such thing as too many ideas for utilizing overripe bananas—they are truly a gift for bakers!
The original recipe featured a delightful caramel center within the cupcakes. However, I noticed that the caramel could harden slightly after baking. For those who prefer a gorgeously soft and flowing caramel core, I highly recommend filling the baked and cooled cupcakes with a warm caramel sauce or dulce de leche instead. This modification ensures a tender, melt-in-your-mouth experience with every bite. Furthermore, I’ve given the frosting recipe a significant upgrade since its initial posting several years ago. I truly believe this updated buttercream is nothing short of amazing. Infused with both caramel and banana, it perfectly complements the cupcake base and creates a harmonious flavor profile. These cupcakes are not just a delicious dessert; they’re an incredibly satisfying and creative way to use up those perfectly ripened bananas!
