Banana Upside Down Cake

Name: Banana Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 4 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 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup milk; 2 teaspoons baking powder; 1/4 teaspoon salt

Highlighted under: Treats & Confections

Delight in the sweet and caramelized goodness of Banana Upside Down Cake, a delicious twist on a classic dessert that brings together ripe bananas and a fluffy cake base.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-02T22:54:29.051Z

Banana Upside Down Cake is a nostalgic dessert that transforms simple ingredients into a delightful treat. The combination of caramelized bananas and moist cake creates a perfect harmony of flavors that you won't be able to resist.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A delightful combination of sweet caramelized bananas and fluffy cake
Perfectly moist texture that melts in your mouth
Easy to make, yet impressively delicious for gatherings

      

The Perfect Dessert for Any Occasion

Banana Upside Down Cake is not just a dessert; it's an experience that brings joy to any gathering. Whether it's a birthday party, a holiday celebration, or just a cozy family dinner, this cake is sure to be the star of the table. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma will capture the attention of your guests, making it a memorable addition to your dessert lineup.

One of the best things about this cake is its versatility. You can serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a classic treat, or enjoy it at room temperature with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Either way, each bite is filled with the sweet, caramelized goodness of bananas, elevating your dessert game to new heights.

Bananas: The Star Ingredient

Ripe bananas are the key to this cake's delicious flavor and texture. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall taste, while their soft, tender texture complements the fluffy cake base beautifully. When cooked, bananas caramelize, creating a rich topping that adds depth and character to the dessert. It's a wonderful way to use up overripe bananas and transform them into something extraordinary.

Additionally, bananas are packed with nutrients, making this cake a slightly healthier indulgence. They are a great source of potassium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber. So, while you're enjoying this delightful treat, you can feel good knowing that you're incorporating some wholesome ingredients into your dessert.

Baking Tips for Success

To ensure your Banana Upside Down Cake turns out perfectly, it's important to measure your ingredients accurately. Use the spoon-and-level method for flour, which helps prevent a dense cake. Additionally, allowing your butter to soften at room temperature before creaming it with sugar will result in a lighter, airier texture.

Another tip is to watch the baking time closely. Every oven is different, so start checking for doneness a few minutes before the recommended time. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. This will help you avoid overbaking and ensure that your cake remains moist and delicious.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your delicious Banana Upside Down Cake:

For the Topping

4 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 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt

Make sure to have all ingredients ready before you start baking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Banana Upside Down Cake:

Prepare the Topping

In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together until bubbly. Stir in the sliced bananas and cook for about 2-3 minutes. Pour the mixture into the bottom of a greased cake pan.

Make the Cake Batter

In a 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. Stir in the vanilla extract.

Combine Ingredients

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

Bake the Cake

Pour the cake batter over the banana topping in the pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. Serve warm and enjoy!

Make sure to let the cake cool before serving to enhance its flavors!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have any leftovers, storing your Banana Upside Down Cake properly will help maintain its delicious flavor and texture. Allow the cake to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. It can be stored at room temperature for up to two days or in the refrigerator for up to a week.

To reheat, simply slice a piece and warm it in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds. Alternatively, you can reheat individual slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven set to a low temperature. This will restore the cake's soft texture and bring back the lovely aroma of caramelized bananas.

Variations to Try

While the classic Banana Upside Down Cake is undeniably delicious, there are numerous variations you can try to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding nuts, such as walnuts or pecans, for an extra crunch and nutty flavor. You can also incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile.

For a tropical twist, try adding shredded coconut or a splash of rum to the cake batter. This will give your dessert a delightful island flair that pairs beautifully with the bananas. Experimenting with different toppings, such as caramel sauce or whipped cream, can also elevate your cake to new heights.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other fruits instead of bananas?

Yes, you can substitute bananas with pineapples or peaches for a different flavor.

→ How should I store leftover cake?

Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

→ Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day ahead and reheat it before serving.

→ What can I serve with this cake?

This cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.