Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a must-try dessert that will warm your heart and satisfy your sweet cravings. This delightful dish features ripe bananas, rich maple syrup, and a luscious homemade toffee sauce, making it an ideal choice for gatherings or cozy nights in. It’s simple to make and perfect for sharing with loved ones, ensuring each slice brings joy.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of ripe bananas and toffee sauce creates a deliciously indulgent treat that everyone will adore.
• Easy Preparation: With straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly and quick to whip up.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for any occasion—holiday gatherings, family dinners, or just a sweet snack at home.
• Decadent Toppings: Enjoy the cake as is or topped with extra toffee sauce for an enhanced flavor experience.
• Crowd-Pleaser: With its moist texture and comforting flavors, this cake is sure to impress family and friends alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, gather the necessary tools to ensure the process goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9x9x3” or 9x11x3” baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium stock pot
• Whisk
• Toothpick

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A deep baking dish ensures even cooking and prevents spills.
• Large Mixing Bowl: Provides ample space for combining ingredients without mess.
• Medium Stock Pot: Ideal for making the silky smooth toffee sauce without boiling over.

Ingredients

This Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake combines ripe bananas, maple syrup, and a decadent homemade toffee sauce for the ultimate cozy dessert that’s perfect for sharing.

For the Cake

• 2 cups 1.1 GF or all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• ¼ tsp baking soda
• ½ tsp kosher salt
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 8 tbsp butter
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• ⅓ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup mashed bananas (approximately 2 bananas)
• ⅓ cup maple syrup
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 3 eggs
• ¾ cup buttermilk

For the Toffee Sauce

• 8 tbsp butter
• ¾ cup brown sugar (packed)
• ¾ cup heavy cream
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

How to Make Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray a 9x9x3” or 9x11x3” deep baking dish with nonstick baking spray. Note that using a larger baking dish will affect the bake time, so always check the cake for doneness with a toothpick.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy. Mix in the eggs, vanilla extract, buttermilk, maple syrup, and mashed bananas until well combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour (or all-purpose flour), baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and bake for 45-55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake; it should come out clean. The cake should also not jiggle. Expect this cake to be dense and very moist.

Step 6: Make the Toffee Sauce

While the cake bakes, prepare your toffee sauce. In a medium stock pot over medium-low heat, melt together the butter and brown sugar while stirring frequently. Cook for about 10 minutes until well combined and smooth. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract; cook for an additional 5 minutes while ensuring it does not boil. The sauce should be silky smooth before removing from heat.

Step 7: Add Toffee Sauce to Cake

Once done baking and slightly cooled, poke holes all over the top of your cake using a toothpick. Pour your cooled toffee sauce evenly over it; allow it to soak in for at least one hour.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake into generous pieces. Serve with extra toffee sauce if desired. Enjoy this rich treat that is sure to bring smiles!

How to Serve Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate this cozy treat.

A La Mode

• Serve warm slices topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic pairing that contrasts the warmth of the cake with cold creaminess.

Whipped Cream Delight

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for an airy finish that complements the dense texture of the pudding cake.

Caramel Drizzle

• Drizzle extra toffee sauce or caramel over each slice before serving to enhance the sweet flavors and add a beautiful presentation.

Fruit Garnish

• Top with fresh sliced bananas or berries for a fruity touch that balances the richness and adds a pop of color.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea. The warm beverage perfectly complements the sweetness of the cake.

How to Perfect Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

To ensure your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake turns out flawlessly, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Ripe Bananas: Choose bananas that are very ripe. They will provide natural sweetness and moisture to your cake.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
• Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done. It should come out clean from the center; if there’s batter, bake longer.
• Soak Time Matters: Allow the cake to soak in the toffee sauce for at least 1 hour. This step enhances flavor and moisture throughout.
• Store Properly: To keep leftovers fresh, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or refrigerate for longer shelf life.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Pair your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake with these delightful side dishes for an even more satisfying meal experience.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream provides a cool contrast and complements the warm dessert beautifully.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds brightness and freshness, balancing the richness of the pudding cake.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Toast: Warm pieces of cinnamon sugar toast are perfect for dipping into any leftover sauce from the cake.
4. Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: A rich chocolate sauce can be drizzled on top or served on the side for chocolate lovers.
5. Chai Spiced Tea: Enjoying slices with chai spiced tea can enhance the dessert’s flavors with warming spices.
6. Caramelized Apples: Sweet caramelized apples offer another layer of flavor, playing nicely against the banana notes in your cake.
7. Nutty Granola: Sprinkle some nutty granola on top for added crunch and texture that contrasts with the moist cake.
8. Toasted Coconut Flakes: Add toasted coconut flakes as a garnish for an exotic touch that enhances both flavor and visual appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking can be tricky, especially when it comes to making the perfect Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Preheat: Always preheat your oven before baking. This ensures even cooking and helps the cake rise properly.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Using Unripe Bananas: Ripe bananas add sweetness and moisture. Choose bananas that are speckled for the best flavor.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Precisely: Baking is a science. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy to achieve the desired results.
• Ignoring Bake Time: Every oven is different. Check for doneness with a toothpick instead of relying solely on time.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.

Freezing Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm slices for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30-45 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a non-stick skillet over low heat, cover, and warm until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, here are some answers!

What makes this Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake so special?

This dessert combines ripe bananas with rich flavors from maple syrup and a decadent toffee sauce, creating a cozy indulgence.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with other fruits like apples or berries for different flavors.

How long does it take to bake Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake?

The baking time is typically between 45-55 minutes; always check with a toothpick for doneness.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator for several days or can be frozen for later enjoyment.

Final Thoughts

This Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect as a comforting dessert or a sweet treat at gatherings. You can customize it further by adding nuts or chocolate chips. Don’t hesitate—try this delightful recipe today!