As I stood in my kitchen, the sweet aroma of overripe bananas filled the air, transporting me back to countless cozy afternoons with loved ones. This was the perfect moment to dive into my favorite indulgence: Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake with Toffee Sauce. This dessert not only highlights the natural goodness of bananas but also offers a delightful twist on traditional comfort food. With its gluten-free option, it’s perfect for everyone at the table. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it the ideal treat for busy weeks or those special occasions. Imagine each slice soaked in luscious toffee sauce, inviting smiles and warm memories. Are you ready to create a masterpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds?

Why Is This Banana Bread Pudding Cake Irresistible?

Comforting, indulgent flavors: This Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake is drenched in a rich toffee sauce that transforms simple ingredients into a show-stopping dessert.

Versatile options: Whether you’re gluten-free or vegan, this recipe caters to everyone’s needs, offering substitutions like almond milk or coconut sugar.

Easy to make: With straightforward steps, it’s beginner-friendly yet yields impressive results, perfect for lazy weekends or festive gatherings.

Crowd-pleasing delight: The combination of warm bananas and creamy toffee is bound to impress guests, similar to our delicious Carrot Cream Cake or Chocolate Chip Banana treats.

Texture to savor: Enjoy each gooey slice that blends moist, dense cake with a lush toffee drizzle, creating a decadent experience that invites seconds.

Banana Bread Pudding Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

2 cups gluten-free or all-purpose flour – This gives your dessert structure; gluten-free flour doesn’t require any adjustments.
2 tsp baking powder – A key leavening agent that ensures a light and fluffy cake.
¼ tsp baking soda – Enhances the rise alongside the baking powder.
½ tsp kosher salt – Balances the sweetness of the cake, bringing out all the flavors.
1 tsp ground cinnamon – Adds a warm, inviting spice that pairs beautifully with bananas.
8 tbsp butter – Provides richness and moisture; can be substituted with a dairy-free alternative for a vegan option.
⅓ cup granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake; coconut sugar can be used for a lower glycemic alternative.
⅓ cup brown sugar – Infuses the cake with deep flavor and moisture.
1 cup mashed bananas (approximately 2 bananas) – The star ingredient that naturally sweetens the cake and gives it moisture.
⅓ cup maple syrup – Adds a delicious layer of flavor; can be switched with agave syrup if desired.
2 tsp vanilla extract – Elevates the sweetness and enhances the cake’s flavor.
3 eggs – Binds everything together; for a vegan version, replace with flaxseed or chia seed mixture.
¾ cup buttermilk – Contributes to the cake’s moisture; substitute with almond milk mixed with vinegar for a similar effect.

For the Toffee Sauce

8 tbsp butter – The basis of this rich sauce; vegan spreads are a great substitute here.
¾ cup brown sugar (packed) – The key sweetener for a caramel-like flavor in the sauce.
¾ cup heavy cream – Creates the luxurious texture; you can opt for non-dairy cream too.
1 tsp vanilla extract – Infuses the sauce with aromatic sweetness, making every bite memorable.

Enjoy assembling these ingredients for a comforting Banana Bread Pudding Cake that will undoubtedly become a cherished recipe in your collection!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with nonstick spray to ensure the Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake releases easily after baking. This step sets the stage for the perfect cake texture.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 8 tablespoons of softened butter with both granulated and brown sugars until the mixture is light and fluffy. Add in the 3 eggs, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, ¾ cup of buttermilk, ⅓ cup of maple syrup, and 1 cup of mashed bananas. Stir until everything is well blended and smooth, creating a luscious batter.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 cups of gluten-free or all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. This step gives your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake the perfect structure and flavor profile. Ensure there are no lumps for a consistent texture.

Step 4: Incorporate the Dry into Wet
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake texture. The goal is to have a smooth batter ready for baking, ensuring every slice will be deliciously moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Bake the Cake
Pour the cake batter into your prepared baking dish and spread it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes; it’s done when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell wonderfully inviting during this time!

Step 6: Prepare the Toffee Sauce
While the cake bakes, make the toffee sauce. In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, melt 8 tablespoons of butter and stir in ¾ cup of packed brown sugar. Continue to stir until the mixture is bubbly and smooth, then slowly pour in ¾ cup of heavy cream and stir until combined. Let it simmer gently for 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.

Step 7: Soak the Cake
Once the banana bread pudding cake is out of the oven, let it cool slightly before poking holes all over the surface with a fork. Pour the warm toffee sauce generously over the cake, ensuring it seeps into the holes. Allow the cake to soak for at least an hour; this will infuse it with rich toffee flavor and moisture.

Step 8: Serve
Slice your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake and consider drizzling additional toffee sauce over each piece when serving. This cake pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream, creating an irresistible dessert that will surely impress family and friends!

Banana Bread Pudding Cake Variations

Feel free to browse these exciting twists that will elevate your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake experience!

Nutty Crunch: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the soft texture of the cake. The added nutty flavor brings a new dimension to this comforting dessert.
Choco Delight: Mix in ½ cup of chocolate chips into the batter before baking. The melted chocolate creates a rich, gooey surprise with each bite, making it perfect for chocolate lovers.
Dairy-Free: Swap out butter and cream for coconut oil and coconut cream for a fully dairy-free option. You’ll enjoy a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with bananas.
Spiced Up: Include a teaspoon of nutmeg or ginger in the dry ingredients to introduce a warm, spicy note that enhances the cake’s overall flavor, giving it a cozy feel.
Fruit Fusion: Add a cup of diced fresh fruit, like blueberries or strawberries, into the batter for a burst of freshness and color. This variation balances the rich toffee with a fruity delight.
Easy Custard: For a silkier dessert, replace the toffee sauce with a luscious vanilla custard. Simply prepare it in advance, and drizzle it over warm slices for an elegant touch.
Maple Walnut: Swap the maple syrup for pecan syrup and add chopped candied pecans into the cake for a decadent maple-infused variation that’s rich and comforting.

For more delightful recipes, explore our Cheesy Halloween Breadstick and Pumpkin Maple Cornbread that will surely impress your guests!

Expert Tips for Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all your wet ingredients, especially butter, are at room temperature for better mixing and fluffiness in your Banana Bread Pudding Cake.
Don’t Overmix: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake instead of a light and airy texture.
Check Oven Temperature: Use an oven thermometer for accurate readings, ensuring your cake bakes evenly and rises beautifully.
Let It Soak: Allowing the cake to soak with the toffee sauce for at least an hour enhances flavor and moisture, creating that irresistible gooey texture.
Storage Notes: Leftover slices can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, but they taste best when enjoyed fresh!
Customization Ideas: Feel free to add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra twist!

What to Serve with Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Indulging in a slice of this warm, gooey cake calls for delightful accompaniments that elevate your dessert experience.

Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy and chilled texture pairs wonderfully with the warm cake, offering a delightful contrast. A scoop melts slightly atop the pudding, enriching each bite.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, homemade whipped cream adds a fluffy touch that beautifully balances the cake’s richness.
Chocolate Sauce: For a playful twist, drizzle over some warm chocolate sauce; it enhances the dessert’s indulgent experience and adds a layer of complexity.
Fresh Berries: Bright and tart strawberries or blueberries can cut through the sweetness and add freshness to each forkful. Their vibrant colors also make your presentation pop!
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling additional caramel over the cake intensifies the toffee flavor and creates a dessert that feels even more decadent.
Spiced Nuts: Roasted pecans or walnuts lend a crunch that contrasts with the cake’s softness while emphasizing the warm, cozy spices.
Coffee: A steaming cup of coffee complements the sweetness beautifully, making every bite even more spectacular. The rich flavor highlights the warm spices within the cake.
Hot Tea: A soothing cup of herbal or chai tea can enhance the comforting aspect of the dessert, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere as you savor each bite.
Coconut Whipped Cream: For a dairy-free alternative, this luscious topping adds a tropical vibe that pairs surprisingly well with the cake’s flavors.

How to Store and Freeze Banana Bread Pudding Cake

Fridge: Store leftover Banana Bread Pudding Cake in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: To revitalize your cake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then warm a slice in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds before serving.

Soaking Sauce: If you have extra toffee sauce, store it separately in the fridge in a sealed container for up to a week; reheat before drizzling over the cake.

Make Ahead Options

These Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake treats are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the cake batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, then storing them in the refrigerator (this helps maintain freshness). Additionally, consider baking the cake the day before serving; once it has cooled, store it covered at room temperature. Just before you’re ready to enjoy, poke holes and pour the warm toffee sauce over the cake, letting it soak for at least an hour. This way, your dessert will be just as delicious, bursting with flavor while saving you precious time, all without sacrificing quality!

Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select the perfect bananas for this recipe?
Look for bananas that are overly ripe, with plenty of brown spots on the peel—this indicates maximum sweetness and flavor. When mashing, you want them soft and mushy; avoid bananas that are still firm or green, as they won’t give you the same luscious taste in your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake.

What’s the best way to store leftover Banana Bread Pudding Cake?
You can keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to enjoy it later, be sure to let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain its moist texture. Consider enjoying it warm by reheating individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds!

Can I freeze Banana Bread Pudding Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cake securely in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, preventing freezer burn. It can stay deliciously preserved for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight and gently warm slices before serving.

What should I do if my cake comes out too dry?
If your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Cake ends up dry, it may be due to overbaking or incorrect measurements. For next time, be sure to check your oven temperature with a thermometer, and watch for the cake to just be golden on top. You can revitalize a dry piece by drizzling it with extra toffee sauce or serving it with a scoop of ice cream.

Are there any dietary considerations for making this recipe?
Yes! This Banana Bread Pudding Cake can easily accommodate different dietary needs. Use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version, and substitute dairy options (like butter and buttermilk) with plant-based alternatives. For a vegan recipe, swap eggs for a flaxseed or chia seed mixture, and make sure to use dairy-free cream for the toffee sauce.