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: 3 ripe bananas, sliced; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter; 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 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Sweet Treat Creations

Delightful and moist, this Banana Upside Down Cake transforms simple ingredients into a delicious dessert that will impress your family and friends.

Created by

Olivia

Last updated on 2026-01-02T23:30:30.960Z

This Banana Upside Down Cake is a delightful twist on the classic pineapple version. With ripe bananas caramelized on top, it offers a rich flavor that perfectly balances sweetness and moistness. Perfect for any occasion, this cake will surely become a family favorite!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Deliciously caramelized bananas create a sweet topping
Moist and fluffy cake that pairs wonderfully with coffee
Easily adaptable with other fruits for a unique twist

      

The Perfect Blend of Flavors

Banana Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert that brings together the sweet, rich flavors of caramelized bananas with the light, fluffy texture of a classic cake. Each bite offers a balance of sweetness and a hint of buttery richness, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion. The bananas not only add flavor but also create a beautiful presentation that is sure to impress your guests.

The combination of brown sugar and butter creates a luscious caramel sauce that envelops the bananas, enhancing their natural sweetness. This delightful topping contrasts beautifully with the moist cake beneath, providing a wonderful texture that keeps each slice interesting. Whether you enjoy it as a dessert or a special brunch treat, this Banana Upside Down Cake is a surefire way to elevate your dessert game.

Versatile and Adaptable

One of the best aspects of Banana Upside Down Cake is its versatility. While bananas are the star of this recipe, you can easily adapt it by incorporating other fruits such as peaches, pineapples, or even apples. Each fruit brings its unique flavor profile, allowing you to customize the cake to suit your taste preferences or seasonal ingredients. This adaptability makes it a fantastic option for using up overripe fruit or simply experimenting with new combinations in the kitchen.

Moreover, you can enhance the flavor by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter. Nuts such as walnuts or pecans can also be sprinkled on top of the fruit for added crunch and richness. This flexibility ensures that you can make this cake your own, turning it into a signature dessert that reflects your personal style.

Serving Suggestions

Banana Upside Down Cake is delightful on its own, but there are numerous ways to elevate its presentation and flavor. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. The creaminess of the ice cream perfectly complements the warm, caramelized bananas, creating a harmonious dessert experience that is hard to resist.

For a more sophisticated touch, consider drizzling a bit of caramel or chocolate sauce over the top before serving. A sprinkle of chopped nuts or a dusting of powdered sugar can also add an elegant finish to this impressive dessert. Pair it with a strong cup of coffee or a sweet dessert wine for a delightful after-dinner treat that your guests will rave about.

Ingredients

For the Topping

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

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 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure all ingredients are at room temperature for the best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Topping

In a skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar until dissolved. Add banana slices and cook for about 2-3 minutes until they start to caramelize.

Remove from heat and set aside.

Make the Cake Batter

In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in vanilla extract.

In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until well combined.

Assemble the Cake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the caramelized banana mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round cake pan. Carefully pour the cake batter over the banana layer.

Bake the Cake

Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.

Serve warm or at room temperature, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

Storage Tips

To keep your Banana Upside Down Cake fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider refrigerating it, although this may affect the cake's texture slightly. For longer storage, you can freeze the cake. Just make sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before placing it in the freezer. It can last up to three months in the freezer.

When ready to enjoy, simply thaw the cake in the refrigerator overnight. You can reheat slices in the microwave for a few seconds or in the oven for a few minutes at a low temperature to restore its moistness. This way, you can savor the delightful flavors of this cake even days after baking!

Tips for Success

For the best results, use ripe bananas that are speckled and soft. They will provide the most flavor and sweetness, making your cake truly delicious. When preparing the caramel topping, ensure the butter is fully melted before adding the brown sugar to avoid any lumps. Stir continuously to achieve a smooth mixture, which will ensure an even caramelization of the bananas.

Also, be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the dry ingredients; this can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined for a light and fluffy texture. Lastly, always check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your cake is ready to be enjoyed!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?

Yes, you can substitute with other fruits like peaches or apples, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

→ How do I store leftover cake?

Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

→ Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature.