If you’re searching for a cozy, crowd-pleasing dessert that earns instant smiles, look no further than this Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake. With a dreamy layer of buttery caramelized bananas and a tender, spiced cake base, every slice shimmers with golden sweetness. This recipe transforms simple pantry staples and a handful of ripe bananas into a showstopping treat, perfect for any season. Whether it’s a special brunch or a weeknight craving, Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake is bound to steal the spotlight!
Ingredients You’ll Need
One of the joys of this cake is its use of everyday ingredients, each playing a key role in flavor and texture. The bananas offer natural sweetness and moistness, while cozy warm spices and sour cream ensure the crumb is irresistible—get ready for a cake that truly celebrates these basics!
- Unsalted butter (1/2 cup, divided): Some goes into the caramel for the bananas, while the rest gives the cake its rich, moist texture.
- Packed light brown sugar (3/4 cup): Vital for the gooey caramel base that transforms the bananas as they bake.
- Ripe bananas (3–4, sliced lengthwise): The riper, the better! They caramelize beautifully and infuse the cake with amazing flavor.
- All-purpose flour (1 1/2 cups): Lays the sturdy, yet soft foundation for the cake itself.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon): Along with baking soda, it helps the cake rise and become airy.
- Baking soda (1/2 teaspoon): Works in tandem with sour cream and bananas for the fluffiest crumb.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): A must for balancing the sweet caramel and amplifying the flavors.
- Ground cinnamon (1/2 teaspoon): Adds warm, cozy notes that pair perfectly with bananas.
- Ground nutmeg (1/4 teaspoon): A hint of nutmeg gives a subtle, aromatic depth.
- Granulated sugar (1/2 cup): For a sweet, light cake layer that isn’t overly heavy.
- Large eggs (2): They bind everything together and keep the cake soft.
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon): A splash of vanilla brings out the best in every ingredient.
- Sour cream (1/2 cup): This gives the cake its tender, moist crumb and a slight tang.
- Milk (1/4 cup): Loosens the batter just enough for a perfectly smooth pour over your bananas.
How to Make Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Caramel Layer
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Take a 9-inch round cake pan and melt 1/4 cup of the butter right inside, either over low heat on the stove or simply let it melt in the oven. Once melted, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter, creating a sweet base that will caramelize as it bakes. Next, arrange your sliced bananas, cut side down, across the sugar—you can overlap them slightly for extra banana coverage.
Step 2: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This step ensures that the leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed for a perfectly spiced and risen Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a separate large bowl, cream the remaining 1/4 cup of butter with the granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creates an airy texture in the cake, so don’t rush this step—a hand mixer makes quick work of it!
Step 4: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients
Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, then add the sour cream and milk, blending until the batter is smooth. Sour cream gives our Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake its signature moistness.
Step 5: Combine and Pour
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, folding gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, so your cake stays soft and tender. Pour this creamy batter over the arranged bananas in your prepared pan, smoothing the top evenly.
Step 6: Bake and Reveal
Slide the cake into the oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, until the top is golden and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then run a knife around the edge. Now for the best part: carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate, allowing that luscious caramelized banana layer to shine!
How to Serve Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake
Garnishes
A warm slice is a treat on its own, but you can make it even more special with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar. Fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream can also add delightful color and contrast.
Side Dishes
This cake pairs beautifully with rich, creamy accompaniments. Serve with a latte for a dreamy brunch, or add a fruit salad on the side for extra freshness. If you want something to balance the sweetness, a tart lemon curd alongside the cake is divine.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try baking the Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake in individual ramekins for mini desserts. You could also sprinkle toasted nuts over the bananas before adding the batter, or arrange the banana slices in fun patterns to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake (which is a rarity!), simply cover the cake tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay moist and fresh on the counter for up to two days, or you can refrigerate for up to four days.
Freezing
To freeze, let the cake cool completely. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It will keep beautifully in the freezer for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy, let it thaw at room temperature or gently reheat.
Reheating
Bring leftover slices back to life by warming them slightly in the microwave (ten to fifteen seconds does the trick) or in a 300°F oven until just heated through. This revives the caramel and keeps the bananas perfectly tender.
FAQs
Can I use frozen bananas for this cake?
Yes, you can use frozen bananas if you don’t have ripe fresh ones. Just let them thaw, drain any excess liquid, and proceed as usual for a moist and flavorful Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake.
What’s the best way to slice the bananas?
Slicing the bananas lengthwise helps them cover more cake surface and makes for a stunning topping, but you can also cut them into thick coins if you prefer a chunkier look.
Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?
You can make dairy-free swaps by using vegan butter, a plant-based milk, and a non-dairy yogurt in place of sour cream. The texture will still be soft and moist, with all the caramelized banana goodness you love.
Can I add nuts or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Sprinkle chopped nuts (like pecans or walnuts) or a handful of chocolate chips over the bananas before adding the batter for extra crunch or a sweet chocolatey surprise baked right in.
How do I keep my cake from sticking when I invert it?
Let the cake cool for just five minutes after baking and run a knife carefully around the sides before inverting. Using a non-stick pan or lining with parchment on the bottom also helps ensure a beautiful, clean release for your Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to impress your family and friends, give this Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake a whirl. It’s delightfully simple, irresistibly delicious, and the kind of recipe that will quickly become a favorite in any dessert rotation. Have fun baking, and don’t forget to enjoy those sweet, caramelized edges!
Print
Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the sweet and moist goodness of this Caramelized Upside-Down Banana Cake. A delectable dessert that combines caramel, bananas, and a tender cake base for a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Caramelized Banana Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 3–4 ripe bananas, sliced lengthwise
Cake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the pan: Melt 1/4 cup butter in a 9-inch round cake pan and sprinkle brown sugar. Arrange banana slices over sugar.
- Mix dry ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl.
- Prepare the batter: Cream 1/4 cup butter and granulated sugar. Add eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and milk. Gradually mix in dry ingredients.
- Bake: Pour batter over bananas and bake for 35–40 minutes. Invert onto a plate after cooling for 5 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- For extra flavor, drizzle with caramel sauce or serve with vanilla ice cream.
- Overripe bananas enhance the sweetness of the cake.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 340
- Sugar: 31 g
- Sodium: 240 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 51 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg
