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Banana Upside Down Cake

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This Banana Upside Down Cake is a delicious twist on the classic pineapple version. With caramelized bananas on top and a tender, moist cake, it’s the perfect balance of sweetness and texture. Ideal for any special occasion, brunch, or dessert, this cake is simple to make and guaranteed to impress your guests. The caramel glaze adds a rich, indulgent touch that makes every bite irresistible!

Ingredients

For the banana layer:

2/3 cup packed brown sugar

4.5 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into pieces)

3 bananas, sliced into 1/41/3 inch rounds

For the cake batter:

1/3 cup unsalted butter (softened)

¾ cup granulated sugar

1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract

1/3 cup plain Greek yogurt or sour cream

2 large eggs

2 overripe bananas (mashed, about 1 cup)

1 cup all-purpose flour

¾ cup whole wheat flour

1 ½ teaspoons baking powder

1 teaspoon baking soda

Dash of salt

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

For the caramel glaze:

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup heavy cream

4 tablespoons unsalted butter

¼ teaspoon salt

Instructions

  • Preheat Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Grease an 8×8 or 9-inch round cake pan (ensure the pan has a capacity of 8 cups).

  • Prepare the Banana Layer: Spread the brown sugar evenly on the bottom of the pan, then scatter the butter pieces over it. Bake for 5-7 minutes until the butter has melted. Stir to combine the sugar and butter, then arrange the banana slices in a single layer on top.

  • Make the Cake Batter: In a bowl, mix together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

  • Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar. Add the eggs and vanilla, mixing until smooth. Stir in the Greek yogurt and mashed bananas.

  • Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until combined.

  • Assemble the Cake: Pour the batter over the caramelized bananas, smoothing the top with a spatula.

  • Bake: Bake for 30 minutes at 350°F, then reduce the temperature to 325°F and bake for another 25-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

  • Cool and Invert: Let the cake cool slightly before inverting onto a plate. Use a knife to loosen the edges, then place a plate upside down over the pan and carefully flip the cake.

  • Make the Caramel Glaze: In a saucepan, combine the butter, brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Simmer for 2-3 minutes and remove from heat.

  • Serve: Let the glaze cool for 1-2 minutes, then pour two-thirds of it over the banana layer. Reserve the rest for serving. Reheat the remaining glaze and drizzle it over each slice. Optionally, sprinkle with toasted chopped pecans or serve with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.

Notes

  • Texture: The cake becomes even more indulgent with the addition of caramelized bananas and a rich glaze.

  • Toppings: Optionally add toasted nuts for added texture, or serve with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

  • Make-Ahead: You can make the cake a day ahead and reheat before serving.