Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is the ultimate cozy dessert that beautifully combines ripe bananas, luscious maple syrup, and a rich homemade toffee sauce. This delightful treat is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday feast, or just a sweet way to end your day. With its moist texture and indulgent flavors, it’s sure to impress anyone who takes a bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: Combining simple ingredients and straightforward steps makes this recipe accessible for bakers of all levels.
• Irresistible Flavor: The blend of ripe bananas and maple syrup creates a naturally sweet and flavorful cake that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Sharing: With generous servings, this cake is ideal for gatherings and celebrations—everyone will want a slice!
• Decadent Toffee Sauce: The homemade toffee sauce adds an extra layer of richness that elevates the dish to a whole new level.
• Versatile Dessert: Enjoy it warm or chilled, plain or topped with ice cream—there’s no wrong way to savor this cake!

Tools and Preparation

To ensure your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake turns out perfectly, having the right tools is essential. Here are some kitchen must-haves that will make your baking experience seamless.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Mixing bowls: Essential for combining ingredients smoothly without spills.
• Whisk: Perfect for evenly incorporating wet and dry ingredients without lumps.
• Baking dish: The right size ensures even baking and helps achieve that 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 a 9x9x3” or 9x11x3” deep baking dish with nonstick baking spray. Note: Using a larger baking dish may affect bake time; always check the cake for doneness with a toothpick.

Step 2: Prepare Wet Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Cream together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, and butter for about 3 minutes until light and fluffy.
2. 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:
1. Whisk together the gluten-free flour (or all-purpose flour), baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon until thoroughly mixed.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture:
1. Stir until just combined—be careful not to overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter into your prepared baking dish:
1. Bake for 45–55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean and not jiggle. Expect a dense and moist cake.

Step 6: Make the Toffee Sauce

While the cake bakes:
1. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt together the butter and brown sugar while stirring frequently.
2. Cook for about 10 minutes until well combined and smooth.
3. Stir in heavy cream and vanilla extract; cook 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 your cake has cooled slightly:
1. Poke holes all over its top using a toothpick.
2. Pour cooled toffee sauce evenly over it, letting it soak in for at least one hour.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Slice your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake:
1. Serve with extra toffee sauce if desired.
2. Enjoy this rich, moist treat!

How to Serve Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

This Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want to elevate your serving style or enhance the flavors, here are some creative suggestions.

Pair with Fresh Fruit

• Sliced Strawberries: Fresh strawberries add a tart contrast to the sweetness of the cake.
• Banana Slices: Reinforce the banana flavor by serving with additional fresh bananas on the side.
• Berries Mix: A mix of blueberries and raspberries brings both color and a burst of freshness.

Drizzle with Extra Toffee Sauce

• Generous Pour: Pour extra toffee sauce over each slice for an indulgent touch.
• Presentation: Use a squeeze bottle for a beautiful presentation when drizzling on plates.

Add Whipped Cream

• Classic Topping: A dollop of whipped cream complements the rich flavors of the cake perfectly.
• Flavor Variations: Consider adding a hint of vanilla or cinnamon to your whipped cream for an extra layer of flavor.

Serve Warm or Cold

• Warm Delight: Serve the cake warm right out of the oven for a cozy treat.
• Chilled Option: For a refreshing twist, allow it to cool completely and serve it cold.

Accompany with Ice Cream

• Vanilla Ice Cream: Pairing with creamy vanilla ice cream adds a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
• Alternative Flavors: Try caramel or chocolate ice cream for added richness.

How to Perfect Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

For perfect results every time, follow these essential tips to ensure your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake turns out deliciously moist and flavorful.

• Bold Bananas: Use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor in your cake.
• Don’t Overmix: Stir just until combined when mixing wet and dry ingredients to keep the cake light and fluffy.
• Check Doneness Wisely: Always use a toothpick to check if the cake is fully baked; it should come out clean from the center.
• Cool Before Serving: Allow the cake to cool slightly before pouring on the toffee sauce; this helps it soak in better.
• Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days for optimal freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

To complement your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake, consider these delightful side dishes that enhance your dessert experience.

1. Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the cake.
2. Greek Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola and fruits offers a creamy and crunchy balance.
3. Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: This classic pairing melts beautifully over warm cake slices, enhancing their flavor.
4. Chocolate Mousse: A light and airy mousse brings elegance while contrasting with the dense pudding cake.
5. Cinnamon Sugar Doughnuts: These sweet treats add crunch and spice, making them a perfect companion for dessert.
6. Nutty Granola Bars: Homemade granola bars provide a chewy texture that pairs well with soft cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Not Measuring Ingredients Accurately: Precision is key in baking. Use a kitchen scale or measuring cups to ensure you’re using the correct amounts for each ingredient.
• Overmixing the Batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
• Using Overripe Bananas: While ripe bananas add flavor, overly brown bananas may alter the cake’s texture. Choose bananas that are spotty but not too mushy.
• Skipping the Soaking Time: Allowing the cake to soak in the toffee sauce enhances flavor and moisture. Don’t rush this step; let it sit for at least an hour.
• Not Checking for Doneness: Every oven is different, so don’t rely solely on timing. Use a toothpick to check if the center is set before removing it from the oven.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• item Store any leftover Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake in an airtight container.
• item It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Freezing Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• item Wrap pieces of cake tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil.
• item Frozen cake can last up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Reheating Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual portions on medium power for about 30-60 seconds, checking for warmth.
• Stovetop: Warm slices in a skillet over low heat for about 5 minutes, flipping occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake unique?

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake stands out with its rich combination of flavors from ripe bananas and sweet maple syrup, topped with a decadent toffee sauce that creates an indulgent dessert experience.

Can I use different types of flour for this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute gluten-free flour or all-purpose flour depending on your dietary needs. Both will work well in this sticky banana bread pudding cake.

How should I serve Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake?

Serve it warm with an extra drizzle of toffee sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top for a delicious treat that everyone will enjoy!

Can I customize this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add nuts, chocolate chips, or dried fruits based on your preferences. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted easily!

Conclusion

This Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is not only rich and comforting but also incredibly versatile. With options for customization, you can make it uniquely yours by adding favorite ingredients or toppings. Try this delightful dessert today and enjoy sharing it with friends and family!

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