Banana Upside Down Cake is a delightful twist on the classic dessert, combining the rich sweetness of caramelized bananas with a moist, tender cake base. This recipe is perfect for banana lovers looking for something a little different yet comforting. With simple ingredients and an easy baking process, you can create a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress family and friends. Whether for a weekend treat or a special occasion, this Banana Upside Down Cake brings warmth, flavor, and nostalgia to your table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Features naturally sweet caramelized bananas on top for a deliciously gooey finish
- Moist and fluffy cake that pairs perfectly with the banana topping
- Simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry
- Easy to make, perfect for bakers of all skill levels
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9-inch round cake pan, pour melted butter and sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the butter. Arrange banana slices in a single layer on top. Set aside.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, beat granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy.
- Add buttermilk and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix well.
- Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the batter gently over the bananas in the cake pan, spreading evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Serving Tips
Serve your Banana Upside Down Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat. It also pairs wonderfully with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a sprinkle of toasted nuts to add a bit of crunch.
Storage Tips
Store any leftover Banana Upside Down Cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it refrigerated for up to 5 days. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for 15–20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes.
Timing Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40–45 minutes
- Total Time: 55–60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
Optional Variations
Fruit Toppings: Swap bananas with pineapple, apples, or peaches for a different twist.
Sweeteners: Use brown sugar, maple syrup, or coconut sugar instead of white sugar.
Flour Options: Substitute all-purpose flour with whole wheat or gluten-free blends.
Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax or chia eggs and use plant-based milk.
Spices: Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or ginger to enhance flavor.
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Conclusion
Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or a simple family dessert, this Banana Upside Down Cake is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth. The luscious, caramelized bananas paired with a moist cake make it a comforting treat that everyone will love. Give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors of Banana Upside Down Cake any time you crave something sweet and homemade.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?
A: It’s best to use fresh ripe bananas for the best texture and flavor, but thawed frozen bananas can work in a pinch.
Q: How do I prevent the bananas from sticking to the pan?
A: Make sure to evenly coat the pan with melted butter and brown sugar before placing the bananas to create a caramel layer that helps release the cake easily.
Q: Can I make this cake dairy-free?
A: Yes! Substitute buttermilk with plant-based milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice, and use dairy-free butter or margarine.
Q: How long will this cake keep?
A: Stored in an airtight container, it stays fresh for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
📖 Recipe
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Banana Upside Down Cake
- Total Time: 55-60 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Moist Banana Upside Down Cake with caramelized bananas—a simple, sweet treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
3 ripe bananas, sliced
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup buttermilk
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a 9-inch round cake pan, pour melted butter and sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the butter. Arrange banana slices in a single layer on top. Set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. In a large bowl, beat granulated sugar and eggs until light and fluffy.
5. Add buttermilk and vanilla extract to the egg mixture and mix well.
6. Gradually add dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
7. Pour the batter gently over the bananas in the cake pan, spreading evenly.
8. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
9. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate.
10. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for 2 days or refrigerate up to 5 days.
Reheat slices in microwave for 15-20 seconds or oven at 300°F for 10 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40-45 minutes
- Category: Desserts