Combine first 5 ingredients in a large bowl; add eggs and oil, stirring until dry ingredients are mois-tened. Do not beat. Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla, pineapple, 1 cup pecans, and bananas.
Pour batter into 3 greased and floured 9-inch round cakepans. Bake at 350° for 23 to 28 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans 10 minutes; remove from pans, and let cool completely on wire racks.
Stir 1/2 cup pecans into Cream Cheese Frosting, if desired, or reserve them to sprinkle over top of frosted cake. Spread frosting between layers and on top and sides of cake.
