Homemade Banana Upside Down Cake – A Deliciously Sweet Treat

If you're a fan of classic desserts with a twist, then this homemade banana upside down cake is just what you need. With its moist, flavorful base and caramelized banana topping, it’s a dessert that never fails to impress. Whether you're baking for a family gathering, a cozy night in, or just looking to use up some ripe bananas, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Why You’ll Love This Homemade Banana Upside Down Cake

This recipe stands out for its simplicity and incredible flavor. The cake is moist and tender, thanks to the ripe bananas, while the caramelized topping adds a delightful sweetness that balances perfectly with the cake’s buttery base. It’s also versatile – you can make it with just a few pantry staples, and the result will always be a mouthwatering treat. Whether you’re an experienced baker or a beginner, this banana upside down cake is sure to be a hit.

Recipe Overview

What is Banana Upside Down Cake?

Banana upside down cake is a delightful dessert where a layer of bananas and brown sugar caramelizes at the bottom of the cake pan while baking. When flipped, this layer becomes the top, creating a beautiful and tasty topping that perfectly complements the moist cake underneath.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 3 ripe bananas, sliced lengthwise
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted, divided
• 3/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup sour cream or yogurt
• 1/4 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don’t have all the ingredients on hand, there are some easy substitutions:

• Butter: You can use margarine or plant-based butter for a dairy-free version.
• Sour Cream/Yogurt: Replace with buttermilk or a dairy-free alternative.
• Milk: Use almond milk or any preferred milk substitute.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Topping

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter. Pour 1/4 cup melted butter into the bottom of the pan, then sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter. Arrange the banana slices on top of the sugar layer, covering the entire bottom of the pan.

2. Make the Cake Batter

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the remaining melted butter and granulated sugar together until well combined. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the sour cream, milk, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix.

3. Assemble the Cake

Pour the batter over the prepared banana and sugar layer, spreading it out evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.

4. Bake

Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before carefully inverting it onto a serving plate.

5. Serve and Enjoy

Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing. The caramelized banana topping will add a beautiful sheen and delicious flavor to every slice.

Cooking Times

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Serving Suggestions

This banana upside down cake serves about 8-10 people. It’s perfect on its own, but you can elevate the experience by serving it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. A drizzle of caramel sauce also complements the caramelized banana flavor wonderfully.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, warm a slice in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds, or enjoy it chilled straight from the fridge.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use overripe bananas for this recipe?

Yes, overripe bananas are actually ideal because they are sweeter and add more moisture to the cake. Just make sure they are still firm enough to slice lengthwise.

What if my cake sticks to the pan?

Make sure to grease the pan thoroughly and let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes before inverting. If it still sticks, gently run a knife around the edges to loosen it.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to the batter?

Absolutely! Chopped walnuts or chocolate chips can be folded into the batter for an extra touch of flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Homemade banana upside down cake is a delightful dessert that’s easy to make and sure to impress. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this recipe will deliver a moist and flavorful cake that’s perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your experience in the comments below. We’d love to hear how it turned out!

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