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 a homemade toffee sauce. This cake is a cozy treat, ideal for gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Its moist texture and deep flavors make it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels.
• Decadent Flavor: The combination of banana and toffee creates an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for more.
• Perfect for Sharing: This cake serves 14, making it an excellent choice for parties or potlucks.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with extra toffee sauce or chilled as a refreshing dessert.
• Comforting Dessert: The rich, moist texture offers a warm hug in every bite—perfect for cozy nights in.

Tools and Preparation

To create this Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, you’ll need some essential tools. Proper preparation ensures your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Nonstick baking spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Medium stock pot
• Whisk
• Baking dish (9x9x3” or 9x11x3”)

Importance of Each Tool

• Nonstick baking spray: Ensures easy removal of the cake from the baking dish without sticking.
• Large mixing bowl: Provides ample space for mixing wet ingredients thoroughly without spills.
• Whisk: Helps achieve a light and fluffy batter by properly aerating the mixture.

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 chosen baking dish with nonstick baking spray. Always check the cake’s doneness using a toothpick, as larger dishes may require longer bake times.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients

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

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together 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 your 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 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 butter with brown sugar while stirring frequently. Cook for about 10 minutes until smooth. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract; cook for an additional 5 minutes without boiling.

Step 7: Add Toffee Sauce to Cake

Once baked and slightly cooled, poke holes across the 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 delicious cake and serve with extra toffee sauce if desired. Indulge in this rich and 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 serve it warm or cold, there are plenty of creative ways to elevate this cozy treat.

Warm with Toffee Sauce

• Serve the cake warm, drizzled with extra toffee sauce for an indulgent experience. The warmth enhances the flavors and creates a gooey texture.

À la Mode

• Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious contrast of temperatures. The creamy ice cream pairs perfectly with the rich banana pudding cake.

With Fresh Fruits

• Garnish with sliced bananas or berries for a fresh touch. This adds a burst of color and complements the sweetness of the cake.

Whipped Cream Topping

• Top each slice with freshly whipped cream. This light addition balances the richness of the cake and adds a fluffy texture.

Drizzle of Maple Syrup

• For an extra sweet touch, drizzle pure maple syrup over the top before serving. It enhances the natural flavors of bananas and adds depth.

How to Perfect Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Perfecting your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is all about attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips to ensure it turns out just right.

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

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

• Check Doneness Early: Start checking your cake at 45 minutes to avoid overbaking. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when done.

• Let It Soak: After pouring on the toffee sauce, allow the cake to soak for at least 1 hour before serving. This step ensures maximum flavor absorption.

• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently in the microwave for best results when serving again.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

While Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake stands out on its own, pairing it with complementary side dishes can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options:

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the pudding cake.
2. Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats add a tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with banana flavors.
3. Caramelized Apples: Sautéed apples with cinnamon create a warm and comforting side that enhances your dessert.
4. Chocolate Fondue: Set up a fondue station where guests can dip pieces of fruit or cake into melted chocolate for an interactive dessert experience.
5. Nutty Granola: Offer a crunchy granola on the side for added texture and nutty flavors that balance sweetness.
6. Vanilla Custard: A smooth custard can provide a luxurious element that complements every bite of banana pudding cake.
7. Chai Spiced Nuts: Tossed in warm spices, these nuts deliver crunch and warmth, making them an excellent accompaniment.
8. Matcha Green Tea Cookies: Light cookies infused with matcha add an earthy flavor profile that contrasts nicely with sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, it’s easy to overlook a few key details. Here are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense texture. Stir until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Incorrect measurements can throw off the recipe. Always use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Skipping the Cooling Step: Pouring sauce too soon can result in soggy cake. Allow the cake to cool slightly before adding the toffee sauce.
• Using Cold Ingredients: Cold eggs or buttermilk can affect how well they combine. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature before mixing.
• Ignoring Bake Time: Every oven is different; rely on visual cues as well as time. Check for doneness with a toothpick rather than strictly adhering to the timer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, slice before freezing so you can thaw only what you need.

Reheating Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake that may help clarify any uncertainties.

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

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and it should not jiggle when gently shaken.

Can I use ripe bananas that are overly brown?

Yes, overripe bananas are perfect for this recipe as they add sweetness and moisture.

What can I substitute for buttermilk?

You can make a quick substitute by mixing ¾ cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.

How long does Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, it will last up to 4 days. In the freezer, it can be kept for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that offers rich flavors and moist texture. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize with nuts or chocolate chips if desired. Give it a try and enjoy this comforting treat!