Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the sweetness of ripe bananas and the richness of homemade toffee sauce. This cake is perfect for family gatherings, cozy evenings, or any occasion where you want to impress your guests with a comforting yet sophisticated treat. Its unique blend of flavors and textures makes it a standout choice for dessert lovers.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Even if you’re not an experienced baker, this recipe is straightforward with simple steps to follow.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of bananas and maple syrup creates a wonderfully rich and sweet flavor profile that everyone will love.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for serving at parties, family dinners, or as a cozy treat at home.
• Decadent Toffee Sauce: The silky smooth toffee sauce takes this cake to the next level, making it irresistible.
• Great for Sharing: With 14 generous servings, it’s an ideal dessert for gatherings and celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into baking, gather your essential tools and ingredients. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Baking dish (9x9x3” or 9x11x3”)
• Toothpick

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without spills.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures even baking—a critical factor in achieving a perfect texture.

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 your baking dish with nonstick baking spray. Keep in mind that using a larger baking dish may alter bake time, so always check for doneness.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another 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 your dry mixture to the wet one. Stir until just combined. Make sure not to overmix; you want a tender cake.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish. Bake for about 45-55 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean with no jiggle.

Step 6: Make the Toffee Sauce

While your cake bakes, prepare the toffee sauce. In a medium stock pot over medium-low heat, melt together the butter and brown sugar—stir frequently for about 10 minutes until smooth. Then stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract; cook for an additional 5 minutes without boiling. Remove from heat once silky smooth.

Step 7: Add Toffee Sauce to Cake

After your cake has finished baking and slightly cooled, poke holes all over its top using a toothpick. Pour cooled toffee sauce evenly over it; let it soak in for at least one hour.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your delicious Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake and serve with extra toffee sauce if desired. Indulge in this rich treat!

How to Serve Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or simply indulging yourself, here are some creative serving suggestions.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and fluffy whipped cream adds a wonderful contrast to the dense texture of the pudding cake.

A Scoop of Ice Cream

• Vanilla or caramel ice cream pairs perfectly with the warm cake, creating a deliciously rich experience.

Fresh Fruit Topping

• Consider topping your slice with fresh berries or sliced bananas for added flavor and a pop of color.

Drizzle of Extra Toffee Sauce

• For those who can’t get enough of that decadent toffee sauce, drizzle some on top before serving for an extra indulgent touch.

Nuts for Crunch

• Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the cake to add a delightful crunch that complements its softness.

Coffee Pairing

• Serve alongside a cup of coffee or espresso for a comforting finish to your meal. The warm beverage enhances the flavors of the cake beautifully.

How to Perfect Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Creating the perfect Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dessert turns out wonderfully every time.

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with lots of brown spots!

• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light one.

• Check Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is done baking. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

• Let It Soak: Allowing the toffee sauce to soak into the cake for at least an hour enhances flavor and moisture throughout.

• Serve Warm: This cake tastes best when served warm. Reheat individual slices briefly in the microwave if needed.

• Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to get creative with toppings! Different flavors can elevate this classic dessert even further.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Pair your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake with these delightful side dishes to create a well-rounded dessert experience.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: A classic pairing that enhances the sweetness and richness of the pudding cake.
2. Caramel Sauce: Add more sweetness by drizzling caramel sauce over each slice.
3. Fresh Fruit Salad: A refreshing side that balances the richness of the bread pudding with bright flavors.
4. Chocolate Sauce: For chocolate lovers, this adds another layer of decadence.
5. Espresso: A small cup of strong coffee complements the flavors beautifully.
6. Coconut Whipped Cream: A dairy-free alternative that provides tropical flair and creaminess.
7. Bourbon Caramel Sauce (Non-Alcoholic): Make a non-alcoholic version using bourbon flavoring for an extra kick without alcohol!
8. Roasted Nuts: Serve warm roasted nuts on the side for added crunch and flavor contrast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake can be a delightful experience, but there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Mixing Time: Not creaming the butter and sugars long enough can lead to a denser cake. Make sure you mix until light and fluffy.
• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can cause the cake to be tough. Mix just until combined for a lighter texture.
• Not Checking for Doneness: Every oven is different. Always check your cake with a toothpick to ensure it’s properly baked before removing it from the oven.
• Pouring Hot Toffee Sauce Directly: If you pour the hot sauce directly onto the cake, it may not soak in properly. Allow it to cool slightly first for better absorption.
• Using an Incorrect Baking Dish Size: Using a dish that is too large can affect baking time and texture. Stick to the recommended size for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the cake has cooled completely before sealing.

Freezing Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common inquiries regarding Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake.

Can I use ripe bananas?

Absolutely! Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and moisture, making them ideal for this recipe.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, your cake is ready!

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! You can use gluten-free flour instead of all-purpose flour without compromising flavor or texture.

What variations can I try with Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake?

Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture!

Final Thoughts

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a comforting dessert that everyone will love. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a slice of cozy goodness today!