Paul Newman Cake Recipe is a rich, layered dessert made with German chocolate cake, caramel, sweetened milk, bananas, whipped topping, and crushed toffee bars.
I made this recipe because I’ve had experience baking it over the years and always loved the flavour. I remember watching it being made on a cooking show long ago, which inspired me.
Now, I’m showing up to guide you step by step through making this unforgettable Paul Newman Cake Recipe.
What Is Special About Paul Newman Cake Recipe?
Paul Newman Cake Recipe is special because it combines simple ingredients into something incredibly rich and satisfying.
The moist German chocolate cake soaks up sweetened condensed milk and caramel, creating a soft, melt in your mouth texture.
Fresh banana slices add a natural sweetness, while whipped topping keeps it light. Crushed toffee bars bring just the right amount of crunch.
Each bite delivers layers of flavour that feel homemade and comforting, making it a favourite treat to enjoy and share.
How To Prepare Paul Newman Cake Recipe?
Recipe Overview
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Course: Dessert
Difficulty: Easy
Cuisine: American
Yield: 12 slices
Kitchen Utensils
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Toothpick (for poking holes)
- Knife and cutting board (for bananas)
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- Ingredients required by the cake mix (usually eggs, oil, and water – refer to box)
- 1 (14 oz) can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 (12 oz) jar butterscotch caramel sauce
- 4 Heath, Skor, or English toffee candy bars, crushed
- 1 (8 oz) container whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
How To Make Paul Newman Cake Recipe?
1. Bake The Cake
Preheat your oven as directed on the German chocolate cake mix box. Make the cake batter using the eggs, oil, and water listed. Pour it into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake according to the instructions (usually around 30–35 minutes), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
2. Poke And Soak
While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a toothpick to poke holes all over the top. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
3. Add The Caramel
Drizzle the butterscotch caramel sauce evenly across the surface. Let the cake cool completely.
4. Layer The Bananas
Once the cake has cooled down, arrange the sliced bananas in an even layer over the top.
5. Make The Topping
In a bowl, gently fold the vanilla extract and cornstarch into the whipped topping until it’s smooth. The cornstarch helps keep the topping from getting watery. Spread the mixture evenly over the banana layer.
6. Finish And Chill
Sprinkle crushed toffee candy bars over the top. Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving so everything can set and the flavours can come together.
Nutrition Facts Of Paul Newman Cake Recipe
Nutrition | Amount |
---|---|
Calories | 420 kcal |
Fat | 18g |
Saturated Fat | 9g |
Carbohydrates | 62g |
Sugar | 45g |
Protein | 5g |
Fiber | 1g |
Paul Newman Cake Recipe
The Paul Newman Cake Recipe is a rich, indulgent dessert known for its layered flavours and moist texture. Its speciality lies in the unique combination of German chocolate cake soaked with sweetened condensed milk and caramel sauce, creating a melt in your mouth experience.
The addition of mashed bananas adds a fruity twist, while the crushed toffee bars provide a delightful crunch.
Topped with a fluffy whipped layer, this cake is easy to prepare but tastes gourmet making it perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a memorable treat at home.
Healthy Nutrition Benefits
➤ Bananas provide potassium, which supports heart health and muscle function.
➤ Using whipped topping instead of heavy frosting reduces overall fat and calorie content.
➤ Sweetened condensed milk adds calcium, important for strong bones and teeth.
➤ German chocolate cake mix contains cocoa, which offers antioxidants that help protect cells.
➤ Including toffee in moderation adds a bit of crunch and satisfaction, helping to prevent overindulgence in other sweets.

Tips And Variations
Tips:
➣ Let the cake cool slightly before pouring the condensed milk and caramel so it absorbs evenly without becoming soggy.
➣ Crush the toffee bars just before adding to preserve their crunch and prevent melting into the topping.
➣ Chill the cake for several hours before serving to allow flavours to fully develop and layers to set.
Variations:
➢ Swap German chocolate cake for devil’s food or yellow cake to change the base flavour.
➢ Use crushed Oreos or chocolate chips instead of toffee for a different texture.
➢ Add a layer of banana slices between the cake and whipped topping for more fruit flavour.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Paul Newman Cake Recipe chilled for the best texture and flavour. Add extra banana slices or a drizzle of caramel on top before serving to enhance the presentation.
Pair each slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Cut into small squares for parties or gatherings.
For a personal touch, sprinkle extra crushed toffee right before serving. This cake holds up well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day.
Storage & Make Ahead
Store Paul Newman Cake Recipe covered in the refrigerator for up to four days. Keep it chilled to maintain the texture and freshness of the whipped topping and bananas.
Prepare the cake a day in advance to let the flavours soak and blend even better. Avoid leaving it at room temperature too long, as the whipped topping may soften too much.
Use an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use A Different Cake Mix Instead Of German Chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute chocolate fudge, devil’s food, or even yellow cake mix depending on your taste preference.
How Far In Advance Can I Make Paul Newman Cake?
You can make it up to 1–2 days in advance. Add banana slices just before serving to keep them fresh.
What Can I Use Instead Of Toffee Bars?
Crushed chocolate bars, chocolate chips, or chopped nuts can be used as alternatives.
Is This Cake Overly Sweet?
It is rich and sweet, but the whipped topping and bananas help balance the flavours.
Conclusion
This Paul Newman Cake Recipe was an easy and delicious success that I truly enjoyed making. I hope you feel inspired to try it yourself because it’s simple to put together and tastes amazing.
Now it’s your turn to make it soon and experience the rich, sweet layers. Once you do, let me know how much you loved it after taking that first bite. I’m sure it’ll be a hit.
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Paul Newman Cake Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk or hand mixer
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Toothpick (for poking holes)
- Knife and cutting board (for bananas)
- Measuring spoons
Ingredients
- 1 box German chocolate cake mix
- Ingredients required by the cake mix usually eggs, oil, and water – refer to box
- 1 14 oz can sweetened condensed milk
- 1 12 oz jar butterscotch caramel sauce
- 4 Heath Skor, or English toffee candy bars, crushed
- 1 8 oz container whipped topping (e.g., Cool Whip)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 2 ripe bananas sliced
Instructions
Bake The Cake
- Preheat your oven as directed on the German chocolate cake mix box. Make the cake batter using the eggs, oil, and water listed. Pour it into a greased 9×13-inch pan and bake according to the instructions (usually around 30–35 minutes), or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Poke And Soak
- While the cake is still warm, use the handle of a wooden spoon or a toothpick to poke holes all over the top. Slowly pour the sweetened condensed milk over the cake, letting it soak into the holes.
Add The Caramel
- Drizzle the butterscotch caramel sauce evenly across the surface. Let the cake cool completely.
Layer The Bananas
- Once the cake has cooled down, arrange the sliced bananas in an even layer over the top.
Make The Topping
- In a bowl, gently fold the vanilla extract and cornstarch into the whipped topping until it’s smooth. The cornstarch helps keep the topping from getting watery. Spread the mixture evenly over the banana layer.
Finish And Chill
- Sprinkle crushed toffee candy bars over the top. Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least an hour before serving so everything can set and the flavours can come together.
Notes
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420 kcal | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Carbohydrates: 62g | Sugar: 45g | Protein: 5g | Fiber: 1g
“Hi, I’m Samia, a passionate recipe creator with 5 years of experience in crafting delicious, unique dishes. My love for cooking has led me to explore a variety of cuisines, combining flavors to create memorable meals for every occasion. Whether it’s a simple weeknight dinner or an elaborate feast, I believe in making every dish special. Join me on my culinary journey as I share easy-to-follow recipes and tips that will inspire your cooking and bring joy to your kitchen!”