Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that brings warmth and comfort to any gathering. With its rich flavors of ripe bananas, sweet maple syrup, and a luxurious homemade toffee sauce, this cake is perfect for sharing with friends and family. Its unique combination of textures makes it an unforgettable treat that can brighten up any occasion, from cozy dinners to festive celebrations.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This recipe doesn’t require advanced baking skills, making it accessible for everyone.
• Deliciously Rich Flavor: The blend of bananas and maple syrup creates a sweet flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for brunch or as an after-dinner treat, this cake fits in at any time of day.
• Perfect for Sharing: With generous servings, it’s an ideal choice for gatherings or potlucks.
• Decadent Toffee Sauce: The homemade toffee sauce elevates this cake to a whole new level of indulgence.

Tools and Preparation

To make Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools that will help you create this delicious dessert with ease.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9x9x3” or 9x11x3”)
• Medium stock pot
• Toothpick

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without mess.
• Baking Dish: The right size ensures even baking and perfect texture.
• Medium Stock Pot: Ideal for making the silky toffee sauce without burning it.

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; 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; be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Bake for 45–55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean. The cake should not jiggle as it bakes – expect it to be dense and very moist.

Step 6: Make the Toffee Sauce

While the cake is baking, 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 smooth. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract; cook an additional 5 minutes without boiling. Remove from heat once silky smooth and pour into a glass container to cool.

Step 7: Add Toffee Sauce to Cake

Once your cake has baked and slightly cooled, poke holes all over its top using a toothpick. Pour cooled toffee sauce evenly over the cake so it can soak in for at least one hour.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake and serve with extra toffee sauce if desired. Relish this rich, moist 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 dinner party or enjoying a cozy night at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your dessert experience.

Classic Serving

• Serve warm with a drizzle of the homemade toffee sauce for an indulgent treat that highlights the rich flavors.

Ice Cream Pairing

• Top each slice with a scoop of vanilla or caramel ice cream. The creamy texture complements the moist cake beautifully, creating a perfect balance.

Whipped Cream

• Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream on top for added lightness. The airy cream will enhance the richness of the pudding cake.

Fresh Fruits

• Garnish with sliced strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a refreshing contrast. This adds color and freshness to each bite.

Nuts Topping

• Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans on top for a crunchy texture. The nuts provide an excellent contrast to the soft cake.

Coffee Companion

• Pair slices with a cup of your favorite coffee or tea. The warmth of the beverage enhances the cozy feel of this dessert.

How to Perfect Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

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

• Use Ripe Bananas: The riper the bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your cake will be. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots for optimal taste.
• Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, stir until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of the light and fluffy cake we desire.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if your cake is done; it should come out clean from the center. Keep an eye on baking time as different ovens may vary.
• Cool Before Serving: Letting the cake cool slightly before serving allows flavors to settle and enhances texture. It’s best enjoyed warm but not right out of the oven.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave for best results.
• Experiment with Toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with toppings! Try coconut flakes or chocolate chips for an extra twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that complement its sweetness and texture. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Cinnamon Apples: Warm spiced apples make a lovely side that enhances the banana flavors and adds an aromatic touch.
2. Caramelized Pears: Sweet and tender pears cooked in butter create a delicious contrast that elevates every bite of your pudding cake.
3. Chocolate Fondue: A light chocolate fondue served alongside allows guests to dip pieces of cake for an interactive dessert experience.
4. Frozen Yogurt: A scoop of tangy frozen yogurt can help cut through the richness while adding another layer of flavor.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of mild cheeses offers a savory counterpart that balances out the sweetness of the pudding.
6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad with seasonal fruits provides brightness and acts as a palate cleanser between bites.
7. Herbed Biscotti: Crunchy biscotti flavored with herbs can serve as an unexpected yet delightful accompaniment alongside your dessert.
8. Spiced Nuts: Roasted spiced nuts offer crunch and warmth that pairs well with both coffee and dessert flavors alike.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, a few common mistakes can affect the outcome. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined for a light texture.
• Ignoring Ingredient Temperature: Using cold eggs or buttermilk can affect the mixing process. Allow them to come to room temperature before use.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Properly: Inaccurate measurements can ruin your cake’s consistency. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Skipping the Cooling Time: Pouring sauce over hot cake can make it soggy. Let the cake cool slightly before adding the toffee sauce for better absorption.
• Using an Incorrect Baking Dish Size: An unsuitable dish can alter baking time. Always stick to recommended sizes for even baking.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep it refrigerated to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Freezing Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 2 months; ensure it’s well-sealed to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power in 30-second intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid to retain moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake?

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a rich dessert combining ripe bananas, maple syrup, and homemade toffee sauce, perfect for cozy gatherings.

How do I know when my cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake; if it comes out clean and the cake isn’t jiggling, it’s done baking.

Can I customize the recipe?

Absolutely! You can add nuts, chocolate chips, or even dried fruits based on your preference for added texture and flavor.

Is this dessert suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes! You can use gluten-free all-purpose flour without affecting the taste or texture of your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake.

Conclusion

The Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that’s sure to impress anyone who tries it. Its rich flavors and moist texture make it perfect for sharing at gatherings or enjoying as a cozy treat at home. Feel free to customize with your favorite add-ins like nuts or chocolate to make it uniquely yours!