Banana Upside Down Cake

Name: Banana Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 3 ripe bananas, sliced; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon baking soda; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Highlighted under: Sweet Recipe Collection

This delicious Banana Upside Down Cake combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a buttery, caramelized topping. Perfect for dessert or a sweet treat with your afternoon coffee!

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-01-03T01:10:30.405Z

This Banana Upside Down Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert. The bananas caramelize beautifully while baking, creating a rich topping that pairs perfectly with the moist cake. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful combination of sweet bananas and buttery cake
Impressive presentation that will wow your guests
Easy to make, yet looks and tastes like a gourmet dessert

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Banana Upside Down Cake is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a feast for the eyes as well. The caramelized bananas create a stunning visual appeal that makes this cake perfect for gatherings, celebrations, or even a cozy family dinner. Whether you’re serving it at a birthday party or enjoying it as a comforting dessert after a weeknight meal, this cake is sure to impress. Its combination of flavors and textures provides a delightful experience that keeps everyone coming back for more.

With its moist, fluffy cake and rich, buttery topping, this dessert seamlessly blends rustic charm with gourmet sophistication. Unlike traditional cakes, the unique upside-down presentation adds a touch of creativity that elevates it above ordinary sweets. Your guests will be amazed when you flip the cake over, revealing the glossy, caramel-covered bananas, making it the star of any dessert table.

Tips for the Best Banana Upside Down Cake

To ensure your Banana Upside Down Cake turns out perfectly, it's important to choose ripe bananas. Look for bananas that are yellow with a few brown spots; these will provide the sweetest flavor and the best texture. Avoid overly ripe or mushy bananas, as they may break down too much during baking and create an undesirable consistency.

Another tip for success is to not overmix your batter. Once you combine the wet and dry ingredients, mix just until incorporated. This will keep your cake light and fluffy. If you prefer a more decadent experience, consider adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the cake batter for an extra layer of flavor.

Serving and Storing Your Cake

Ingredients

For the Topping

1/4 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
3 ripe bananas, sliced

For the Cake

1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

Prepare the Topping

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together until bubbly. Pour this mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round cake pan.

Arrange the sliced bananas on top of the caramel mixture.

Make the Cake Batter

In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture until just combined.

Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter over the bananas in the pan. Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool for a few minutes before inverting onto a serving platter.

Nutritional Benefits of Bananas

Bananas are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients. They are an excellent source of potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports heart health. Additionally, bananas provide dietary fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness. Incorporating bananas into your diet can contribute to overall well-being, making this cake a guilt-free indulgence.

Moreover, bananas contain vitamin C, which boosts the immune system and supports skin health. They also provide vitamin B6, which is important for brain health and metabolism. By making a Banana Upside Down Cake, you can enjoy a delightful dessert while also benefiting from the nutritional properties of this wonderful fruit.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding different fruits or flavors. Pineapple is a classic alternative; simply substitute the bananas with pineapple rings for a tropical twist. You can also add a splash of rum or coconut extract to the batter for a more exotic flavor profile.

For a healthier version, consider using whole wheat flour or a sugar substitute to reduce calories. You can also incorporate nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, into the topping for added crunch and flavor. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility, allowing you to make it your own while still enjoying that signature caramelized goodness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?

Yes, you can use pineapples, peaches, or apples for a different flavor.

→ How do I store any leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bake the cake and store it unglazed, then add the topping just before serving.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.