Looking for a cozy dessert that’s simple to bake but full of flavor? This Upside-Down Banana Cake is a tender, moist treat layered with caramelized bananas on top and a soft vanilla-scented sponge underneath. It’s perfect for using up ripe bananas and makes a beautiful presentation straight from the pan!
Serve it warm with a scoop of ice cream, or enjoy a slice with your afternoon coffee. Either way, this cake is comfort in every bite. 🥄💛
🍌 Ingredients
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 large egg
- 60 g (6 tbsp) sugar
- 130 ml milk
- 2 g (½ tsp) salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 150 g (1¼ cups) cake flour or all-purpose flour
For the Banana Topping:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 40 g (3 tbsp) unsalted butter
- 60 g (¼ cup) brown sugar
🧁 Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Banana Caramel Base:
- Preheat oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease a 7- or 8-inch round cake pan.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar and stir until melted and bubbly (about 1–2 minutes).
- Pour the caramel into the bottom of your cake pan and spread evenly.
- Arrange banana slices on top of the caramel in a single layer. Set aside.
2️⃣ Make the Cake Batter:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg with sugar until pale and slightly thickened.
- Add milk, vanilla extract, and salt. Stir to combine.
- Sift in the flour and gently mix until the batter is smooth and lump-free. Be careful not to overmix.
3️⃣ Assemble & Bake:
- Carefully pour the batter over the bananas and caramel layer in the pan.
- Bake for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
4️⃣ Flip & Serve:
- Run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen.
- Invert the cake onto a plate while still warm so the banana topping doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Optional: top with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream! 🍦
✅ Tips & Tricks
- Use ripe bananas: Spotty bananas are sweeter and caramelize beautifully.
- Don’t overmix: Stir the batter just until combined to keep the cake tender.
- Try adding spice: Add ½ tsp cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm twist.
- Serve warm: This cake is best enjoyed slightly warm with a melty scoop of ice cream.
🍽️ Storage & Serving
- Store leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for 4–5 days.
- Reheat slices gently in the microwave before serving.
