Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the rich flavors of ripe bananas and sweet maple syrup, topped with a luscious homemade toffee sauce. This cake is not only perfect for family gatherings but also ideal for cozy nights in or as a comforting treat to share with friends. Its moist texture and indulgent taste make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of bananas and maple syrup creates a sweet, rich flavor that everyone will love.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly.
- Perfect for Sharing: Serves 14, making it great for gatherings, parties, or potlucks.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with ice cream, or at room temperature as a snack.
- Decadent Toffee Sauce: The homemade toffee sauce adds an extra layer of richness that takes this dessert over the top.
Tools and Preparation
To create this Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish (9x9x3” or 9x11x3”)
- Whisk
- Rubber spatula
- Toothpick
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing Bowls: Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without spills.
- Baking Dish: The right size ensures even baking; too big can dry out the cake.
- Whisk: Perfect for aerating eggs and mixing batter thoroughly.
- Rubber Spatula: Helps fold ingredients gently, preserving air in the batter.
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: 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, stirring 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 and the cake should not jiggle. This 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. The sauce should be silky smooth. Remove from heat and pour into a glass container to cool.
Step 7: Add Toffee Sauce to Cake
Once the cake is done and slightly cooled, poke holes all over the top using a toothpick. Pour cooled toffee sauce evenly over the cake, allowing it to soak in for at least 1 hour.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Slice the 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 is a delightful experience, as its rich flavors and warm texture make it the perfect dessert for any occasion. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this scrumptious treat.
Pair with Ice Cream
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The classic choice that complements the warm cake perfectly.
- Cinnamon Ice Cream: Adds a spiced touch that enhances the banana flavor.
Drizzle with Extra Toffee Sauce
- Warm Toffee Sauce: Pour additional sauce on top for an extra layer of sweetness.
- Cold Toffee Sauce: For a contrasting temperature experience, serve chilled sauce alongside.
Fresh Fruit Garnish
- Sliced Bananas: Fresh bananas enhance the cake’s flavor and add a nice presentation.
- Berries: Strawberries or blueberries provide a tart contrast to the sweetness.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Homemade Whipped Cream: Light and fluffy, this adds creaminess that balances out the cake’s density.
- Flavored Whipped Cream: Consider adding vanilla or cinnamon for an extra twist.
How to Perfect Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake
Perfecting your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake ensures every bite is delicious and memorable. Here are some tips to achieve the best results.
- Use Ripe Bananas: The sweeter and more flavorful your bananas are, the better your pudding will taste.
- Don’t Overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to maintain a light texture in your cake.
- Check Doneness Early: Start checking the cake at 45 minutes to ensure it doesn’t overbake.
- Cool Before Serving: Allowing the cake to cool slightly before serving helps it set up nicely and makes it easier to slice.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to try different toppings like nuts or coconut for added texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake
Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake pairs wonderfully with various side dishes that enhance its comforting flavors. Consider these options:
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A light mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing balance to the rich dessert.
- Chia Seed Pudding: This creamy, nutritious option can add an interesting texture contrast.
- Vanilla Yogurt: A scoop of yogurt can offer a tangy flavor that complements the sweetness of the cake.
- Coconut Macaroons: These chewy treats introduce another layer of sweetness and coconut flavor.
- Nutty Granola: A sprinkle of granola adds crunch and pairs well with any creamy accompaniments.
- Caramelized Apples: Warm, sweet apples bring out the flavors of banana in a delightful way.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.
- Not measuring ingredients correctly: Accurate measurements are crucial in baking. Use kitchen scales or measuring cups to ensure precision.
- Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a tough cake. Stir until just combined for a tender texture.
- Skipping the soaking time: Allowing the toffee sauce to soak in enhances flavor and moisture. Don’t rush this step!
- Ignoring oven temperature: Oven temperatures can vary. Always use an oven thermometer and adjust as necessary for even baking.
- Using stale bread: Fresh bread yields better texture. If using day-old bread, make sure it’s not too dry.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep extra toffee sauce in a separate container.
Freezing Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to 2 months.
- Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Warm slices over low heat in a skillet, covered, for about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions regarding Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake.
Can I use different types of flour?
Yes, you can substitute with gluten-free flour or all-purpose flour according to your preference.
How long will Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake last?
In the refrigerator, it lasts about 3 days; if frozen properly, up to 2 months.
What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by mixing milk with vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for a few minutes.
Can I customize the toppings?
Absolutely! Consider adding nuts, chocolate chips, or fruits for added flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
This Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that combines rich flavors with a moist texture. It’s perfect for gatherings or simply as a comforting treat at home. Experiment with different toppings or add-ins to make it your own!
Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake
Indulge in our Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, a warm and comforting dessert that perfectly marries the rich sweetness of ripe bananas with the delightful essence of maple syrup. This delectable cake is topped with a homemade toffee sauce that adds a luxurious finish, making it an ideal choice for family gatherings or cozy nights in. With its moist texture and irresistible flavor, this cake is sure to impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth. Perfect for sharing, each slice is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 14 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 2 cups 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 (about 2 bananas)
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 eggs
- ¾ cup buttermilk
- 8 tbsp butter (for toffee sauce)
- ¾ cup brown sugar (packed, for toffee sauce)
- ¾ cup heavy cream (for toffee sauce)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract (for toffee sauce)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a deep baking dish (9×9' or 9×11') with nonstick spray.
- Cream together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter until light and fluffy. Mix in eggs, vanilla, buttermilk, maple syrup, and mashed bananas.
- In a separate bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
- Gradually combine dry ingredients with wet mixture until just mixed; do not overmix.
- Pour batter into the prepared dish and bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the toffee sauce, melt butter and brown sugar in a pot over medium-low heat; stir until smooth. Add cream and vanilla; simmer for an additional few minutes.
- After cooling slightly, poke holes in the cake and pour the cooled toffee sauce over it to soak in.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (100g)
- Calories: 335
- Sugar: 24g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Use ripe bananas for maximum sweetness. Consider adding nuts or chocolate chips for extra flavor. Allow the cake time to soak up the toffee sauce for optimal taste.