The aroma of sweet bananas mingling with rich toffee sauce is enough to transport anyone into a state of bliss. This Sticky Banana Bread Pudding combines the beloved elements of traditional banana bread with the gooey indulgence of sticky toffee pudding, creating a cozy dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. Not only is this recipe a comforting crowd-pleaser, it’s also gluten-free adaptable, making it accessible for everyone to enjoy. The moist, dense cake absorbs the luscious caramel sauce, bringing together familiar flavors in a delightful new way. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply looking to treat yourself, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around. Curious to find out how to whip up this mouthwatering dessert? Let’s dive in!
Why is this dessert a must-try?
Unforgettable Flavor: The rich combination of bananas and toffee creates an indulgent experience that’s nothing short of delightful.
Comforting and Cozy: This dish is perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and satisfying.
Versatile Enjoyment: Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
Easy to Make: Even novice bakers can impress with this straightforward recipe, similar to my Bowl Banana Bread that’s made in just one bowl!
Gluten-Free Adaptable: Easily switch to gluten-free flour, making this comforting dessert available for everyone at your table.
Cozy up with this Sticky Banana Bread Pudding and watch it become a family favorite!
Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Ingredients
• Get ready for a cozy baking adventure!
For the Cake
- Flour – The base structure of the cake; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
- Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise, contributing to that fluffy goodness.
- Baking Soda – Adds leavening along with baking powder, ensuring a delightful lightness.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances flavors and balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth and a cozy aroma, perfect for comfort food.
- Butter (Room Temperature) – Adds richness and moisture, ensuring a tender crumb.
- Granulated Sugar – Provides sweetness and structure; can be replaced with coconut sugar for a healthier touch.
- Brown Sugar – Adds depth of flavor and moisture; packed tightly for better melding with the toffee sauce.
- Mashed Bananas – Your primary flavor source; use very ripe bananas for maximum sweetness.
- Maple Syrup – Adds extra sweetness and flavor; honey can be substituted.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor; opt for pure extract for the best results.
- Eggs – Provide vital structure and moisture; room temperature is ideal for mixing.
- Buttermilk – Keeps the cake moist and tangy; can be substituted with yogurt or a dairy-free option.
For the Toffee Sauce
- Butter – Infuses richness and smooth texture into the sauce.
- Brown Sugar – Creates that irresistible deep caramel flavor; must be packed in for proper melting.
- Heavy Cream – Adds creaminess; coconut cream can be used for a dairy-free option.
- Vanilla Extract – Further enhances the lovely flavor profile of the sauce.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Sticky Banana Bread Pudding
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, take a 9×9 or 9×11-inch baking dish and grease it generously with butter or non-stick spray. This will ensure that your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding comes out easily and maintains its beautiful shape once baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugars
In a large mixing bowl, combine room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar. Use an electric mixer to cream them together on medium speed for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is essential to create a tender texture in your pudding.
Step 3: Mix in the Eggs and Flavors
Add eggs one at a time to the creamed butter and sugar, mixing well after each addition. Then fold in vanilla extract, buttermilk, maple syrup, and mashed bananas until the batter is smooth and well combined. The distinct aroma of ripe bananas will start to mingle in your kitchen at this stage, setting the tone for your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the gluten-free flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon. Make sure there are no lumps in the dry mix. This step will help to properly aerate the flour, resulting in a light and fluffy texture in your delicious pudding.
Step 5: Fold Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, folding gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense texture. You want the batter to retain its lightness, which is key for a perfect Sticky Banana Bread Pudding.
Step 6: Bake the Pudding
Pour the prepared batter into your greased baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. It’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown, signaling the delightful warmth to come.
Step 7: Make the Toffee Sauce
While the pudding bakes, prepare the toffee sauce by melting butter and packed brown sugar together in a saucepan over medium-low heat. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes until the sugar has completely melted and the mixture begins to bubble and caramelize, filling your kitchen with a heavenly scent.
Step 8: Add Cream and Vanilla
Once the butter and sugar mixture is bubbling, lower the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract. Cook this mixture for an additional 5 minutes, stirring constantly until smooth and creamy. This rich toffee sauce will transform your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding into a decadent dessert.
Step 9: Soak the Pudding
After removing the pudding from the oven, allow it to cool for about 10 minutes. Poke holes in the top with a skewer or fork, then pour the hot toffee sauce evenly over the surface. Let it soak for at least 1 hour, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully into the cake.
Step 10: Serve and Enjoy
When ready to serve, slice generous pieces of your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding and drench them in additional warm toffee sauce if desired. This cozy dessert is best enjoyed warm, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream to balance the sweet richness of the dish.
How to Store and Freeze Sticky Banana Bread Pudding
Fridge: Keep cooked Sticky Banana Bread Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will help retain its moisture and flavor while preventing it from drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pudding without the toffee sauce in a well-wrapped container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To enjoy warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds. Drizzle with fresh toffee sauce if desired for a delightful experience.
Make-Ahead Tips: You can prepare the pudding a day in advance. Store the cake and the sauce separately until you’re ready to serve for optimal freshness and taste.
What to Serve with Sticky Banana Bread Pudding
Indulge in the comforting sweetness of your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding by pairing it with delightful accompaniments that enhance the experience.
- Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cold, creamy texture beautifully contrasts the warm pudding, adding a refreshing touch to each bite.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this classic topping complements the rich toffee sauce and adds an elegant finish to your dessert.
- Fresh Berries: Bright, tart berries like raspberries or strawberries cut through the sweetness and add a pop of color to your plate.
- Caramelized Nuts: Crunchy pecans or walnuts caramelized in sugar provide a delightful texture that pairs well with the gooey pudding.
For a lovely afternoon dessert setting, serve with a cup of coffee or tea. The warmth of the drink enhances the flavors of the pudding.
- Mint Tea: A refreshing herbal option that balances the sweetness of the pudding with light herbal notes.
- Chocolate Sauce Drizzle: An indulgent addition for chocolate lovers; this sauce brings a rich, decadent layer to your already delightful dessert.
- Coconut Cream: Substituting whipped cream for coconut adds a tropical twist and a unique layer of flavor, enhancing the overall experience.
Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to personalize your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding with these delightful twists that can elevate the flavors even further!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour to cater to gluten sensitivities without sacrificing taste.
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk in place of buttermilk and coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a delicious dairy-free indulgence.
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Spice it Up: Enhance the flavor profile by incorporating spices like nutmeg or ginger; this will add a lovely warmth to your pudding.
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Nutty Addition: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for an added crunch and a delightful contrast to the soft pudding texture.
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Chocolate Twist: Fold in a handful of chocolate chips into the batter for a sweet, chocolaty surprise that pairs beautifully with the toffee sauce.
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Fruity Surprise: Add diced apples or even dried fruit like raisins for a fruity boost that complements the banana and toffee flavors perfectly.
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Caramel Pretzel Topping: Finish with crushed pretzels drizzled in caramel sauce for a sweet-salty crunch that makes each bite exciting.
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Moisture Boost: Instead of buttermilk, you can use Greek yogurt for an extra tang and an even denser, moist texture that’s oh-so-satisfying.
These variations are sure to make your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding a unique treat! And if you’re itching to try something similar but a little different, don’t miss my delightful Swirl Banana Bread or the irresistible Chip Banana Bread. Enjoy your baking adventure!
Expert Tips for Sticky Banana Bread Pudding
- Use Ripe Bananas: Overripe bananas with brown spots bring out maximum sweetness and moisture, elevating your sticky banana bread pudding.
- Don’t Overmix: Combine wet and dry ingredients lightly to keep the batter airy; overmixing can lead to a dense final product.
- Generous Soaking: For the best flavor, don’t skimp on the toffee sauce soaking—let it soak for at least an hour for that gooey deliciousness.
- Serve Warm: The dessert is best served warm. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds before serving to restore the gooey texture.
- Storage Tips: To keep it fresh, store the pudding and sauce separately. Reheat each when ready to enjoy your sticky banana bread pudding again!
Make Ahead Options
These Sticky Banana Bread Pudding are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the pudding batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients, storing the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the toffee sauce can be made ahead and stored for up to 3 days in the fridge; just reheat it gently before serving to keep its rich consistency. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the cold batter into the greased baking dish and bake as directed. By prepping ahead, you can enjoy this comforting dessert with minimal effort while preserving its delicious taste!
Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What kind of bananas should I use?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and moisture, use very ripe bananas with lots of brown spots. They provide maximum sweetness and make your Sticky Banana Bread Pudding delightfully moist.
How should I store the leftovers?
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the pudding moist and fresh, so you can enjoy it just as much later on!
Can I freeze the Sticky Banana Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the pudding in a well-wrapped container without the toffee sauce. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
What if my pudding turns out dense?
If your pudding ends up dense, it’s often due to overmixing the batter. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined, and avoid excessive mixing to maintain lightness. Using overripe bananas can also help with moisture.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Very much! You can substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour, making this Sticky Banana Bread Pudding suitable for anyone with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure you check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.
Can I make this dessert ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Sticky Banana Bread Pudding a day in advance. Just store the pudding and the toffee sauce separately, and reheat everything when you’re ready to indulge. This will keep them at their best flavor and freshness!
Cozy Up with Sticky Banana Bread Pudding Delight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a bowl, cream together room-temperature butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar for 3-4 minutes until light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one at a time and mix well, then fold in vanilla extract, buttermilk, maple syrup, and mashed bananas until the batter is smooth.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, kosher salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the greased dish and bake for 45-55 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- For the toffee sauce, melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan on medium-low heat for 5-7 minutes until sugar melts and bubbles.
- Lower heat and stir in heavy cream and vanilla; cook for 5 more minutes until smooth.
- Let the pudding cool for 10 minutes, poke holes in it, then pour the toffee sauce over it and let it soak for 1 hour.
- Serve warm with additional toffee sauce, ice cream, or whipped cream.
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