Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that turns ripe bananas and simple ingredients into a rich, comforting treat. Perfect for any occasion, this cake features a luscious toffee sauce that seeps into every bite, making it an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, this cake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward instructions, you can whip up this dessert without any fuss.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of bananas and toffee sauce creates a deliciously sweet experience.
• Perfect for Sharing: This cake serves 14, making it ideal for gatherings or special occasions.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it warm as a dessert or cold for breakfast; it’s delicious any time of day.
• Rich in Texture: The moist and dense cake paired with silky toffee will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Tools and Preparation

To prepare Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, having the right tools on hand makes the process smoother and more enjoyable. Below are the essential items you’ll need.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures even baking; too large may dry out the cake.
• Whisk: Ideal for achieving a smooth batter by incorporating air into the mixture.
• Rubber spatula: Helps scrape every bit of batter from the bowl, reducing waste.

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 bake time; always check 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 as this can affect texture.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45-55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. The cake will be dense and very moist.

Step 6: Make the Toffee Sauce

While the cake is baking, prepare the toffee sauce. In a medium stock pot over medium-low heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together 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 without boiling. Remove from heat and pour into a glass container to cool.

Step 7: Add Toffee Sauce to Cake

Once the cake has baked and slightly cooled, poke holes all over using a toothpick. Pour cooled toffee sauce evenly over the cake; allow it to soak in for at least 1 hour.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake and serve with extra toffee sauce if desired. Enjoy this rich, moist treat!

How to Serve Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Serving Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake can elevate your dessert experience, making it perfect for any occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will enhance the flavors and presentation of this delicious treat.

A La Mode

• Serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top. The cold ice cream melts into the cake, creating a delightful contrast.

With Whipped Cream

• Top each slice with fresh whipped cream. This adds a light and creamy texture that complements the dense pudding cake.

Drizzled with Extra Toffee Sauce

• For those who love a rich flavor, drizzle extra toffee sauce over each slice just before serving. It enhances the sweetness and adds a luxurious touch.

Garnished with Fresh Bananas

• Add sliced fresh bananas on top for a fruity garnish. This not only makes the dessert visually appealing but also intensifies the banana flavor.

Accompanied by Nuts

• Serve with chopped walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top. The crunch adds a wonderful texture contrast to the soft cake.

How to Perfect Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

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

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

• Measure Ingredients Accurately: Use precise measurements for flour and sugars. Too much flour can lead to a dry cake, while too little sugar may affect sweetness.

• Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture rather than a fluffy one.

• Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness at 45 minutes by inserting a toothpick into the center. It should come out clean when fully baked.

• Let it Soak: Allow the cake to sit after pouring on the toffee sauce. This ensures maximum flavor absorption, making each bite more delicious.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options that complement this sweet dessert.

1. Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic pairing of vanilla ice cream balances the richness of the cake while adding a refreshing cold element.
2. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a light and refreshing contrast to the dense pudding cake.
3. Creamy Custard: A smooth custard sauce acts as an elegant accompaniment, adding another layer of sweetness and creaminess.
4. Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle chocolate sauce over plates for those who enjoy an added layer of indulgence alongside their dessert.
5. Caramelized Apples: Warm caramelized apples add warmth and spice, enhancing the cozy flavors of banana bread pudding.
6. Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of coffee or tea can provide balance and refreshment after enjoying this rich dessert.
7. Chopped Nuts: Offer chopped walnuts or almonds on the side for guests who prefer an added crunch with their sweet treat.
8. Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free option, serve coconut whipped cream for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with bananas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, a few common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here’s how to avoid them.

• Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can make your cake tough. Mix just until the dry ingredients are incorporated for a light texture.
• Not Checking Doneness: Relying solely on bake time can be misleading. Always check with a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when done.
• Skipping the Soaking Step: Letting the cake soak in the toffee sauce is crucial for flavor and moisture. Don’t rush this step; allow at least one hour.
• Using Unripe Bananas: Unripe bananas won’t provide the sweet flavor needed. Opt for fully ripe bananas for the best taste.
• Ignoring Oven Temperature: Every oven is different. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your baking temperature is accurate for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Ensure the cake has cooled completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, or place in a freezer-safe container.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Microwave individual slices on medium power for 30-45 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat slices in a non-stick pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake sticky?

The combination of ripe bananas and a rich toffee sauce creates a moist, sticky texture that enhances the dessert’s indulgence.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute or add fruits like apples or berries, but adjust sugar levels according to their sweetness.

How do I know when my Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is done?

Check by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean without any wet batter clinging to it, indicating it’s fully baked.

Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free all-purpose flour as indicated in the ingredient list, ensuring all other components are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion. Its rich flavors and moist texture will impress everyone you serve it to. Feel free to customize with different fruits or toppings like nuts or whipped cream for added flair!