There’s something magical about the combination of bananas, caramel, and soft cake. This Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs the comforting sweetness of ripe bananas with the luxurious richness of caramel. Perfectly moist and infused with vanilla, this cake is ideal for any occasion—be it a cozy family gathering or a sophisticated dinner party.

Originating from classic upside-down cakes, this recipe takes the traditional approach to new heights by using ripe bananas as the crowning glory. The caramel base, created with sugar and butter, transforms into a glossy, golden topping once the cake is flipped. The result? A show-stopping dessert that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious.

This recipe is easy to prepare with pantry staples, making it an excellent go-to treat. Its timeless appeal lies in its simplicity and the universal love for bananas and caramel. Let’s get started on creating this heavenly cake!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• Egg: 1 large
• Granulated Sugar: 60g (6 Tbsp)
• Milk: 130ml
• Salt: 2g (½ tsp)
• Vanilla Extract: 1 tsp
• Cake Flour or All-Purpose Flour: 150g (1 ¼ cups)
• Baking Powder: 5g (2/3 Tbsp)
• Cooking Oil: 50ml

For the Caramel Base:

• Unsalted Butter: 10g
• Unrefined Sugar or Regular Sugar: 15g (1 ½ Tbsp)
• Ripe Bananas: 2, sliced

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 35 minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes

Servings: 6

Calories (Per Serving): ~210 kcal

Steps to Make Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Base

1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Grease a round cake pan with butter or line it with parchment paper for easy release.
3. Melt the unsalted butter in a small saucepan over low heat. Add the unrefined sugar and stir until it dissolves, forming a smooth caramel.
4. Pour the caramel into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
5. Arrange the banana slices over the caramel, covering the base completely. Set the pan aside.

Step 2: Mix the Cake Batter

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg and granulated sugar until pale and slightly frothy.
2. Add the milk, salt, and vanilla extract to the mixture, stirring until combined.
3. Sift together the flour and baking powder, then gradually fold them into the wet mixture. Be careful not to overmix, as this could make the cake dense.
4. Stir in the cooking oil, ensuring a smooth, lump-free batter.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Gently pour the cake batter over the banana-caramel layer in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30–35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
3. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes.

Step 4: Flip and Serve

1. Run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it from the pan.
2. Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully invert the cake onto the plate. Tap gently if needed to release the caramel layer.
3. Let the cake cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.

Why This Recipe is Timeless

The Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake holds a special place in the world of desserts due to its ability to evoke nostalgia while remaining versatile. The classic combination of bananas and caramel is universally loved and pairs beautifully with the light, fluffy cake.

This recipe is timeless because of its simplicity and adaptability. You can easily customize it by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a cozy twist or incorporating nuts for added texture. It’s perfect for any season, whether enjoyed warm on a chilly evening or paired with ice cream on a sunny day.

Upside-down cakes have a long history, dating back to when they were baked in cast-iron skillets over open flames. This version continues that tradition while modernizing it with easy techniques and a focus on accessible ingredients.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~210 kcal
• Protein: 4 g
• Carbohydrates: 35 g
• Fat: 7 g
• Sugar: 20 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Sodium: ~100 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use frozen bananas for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use thawed frozen bananas, but ensure they are well-drained to prevent excess moisture.

Q: What if I don’t have unrefined sugar?

A: Regular granulated sugar works just as well for the caramel base. Brown sugar is also a great alternative for added richness.

Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! Bake the cake a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Gently reheat it in the oven or microwave before serving.

Q: Can I use a different fruit?

A: Yes, fruits like pineapple, peaches, or apples work wonderfully as substitutes.

Tips for Making the Perfect Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake

1. Choose Ripe Bananas: Ripe bananas are key to achieving a rich, sweet flavor. Avoid overripe bananas, as they may become mushy during baking.
2. Avoid Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.
3. Keep an Eye on the Caramel: When making the caramel base, don’t overcook it, as burnt caramel can become bitter.
4. Serve Fresh: While the cake can be stored, it tastes best when served fresh and warm, with the caramel still gooey.

Storage Tips

• Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days in an airtight container.
• Refrigeration: For longer storage, refrigerate the cake in a sealed container for up to 4 days. Reheat slices gently before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing. Thaw in the refrigerator and warm slightly before serving.

Conclusion

The Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake is a dessert that never goes out of style. Its combination of tender cake, caramelized bananas, and rich flavor makes it a favorite for all ages and occasions. This recipe brings the best of classic baking to your kitchen, allowing you to create a dessert that’s as impressive as it is comforting.

What makes this cake so special is its ability to bring people together. The moment the cake is flipped, revealing the glistening caramelized bananas, is a joy that’s best shared with loved ones. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create extraordinary results when handled with care and love.

Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe offers an approachable yet rewarding baking experience. It invites you to savor the process of creating something beautiful and delicious, reminding us that the simplest pleasures are often the most enduring. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the magic of the Banana Caramel Upside-Down Cake—a timeless treat that’s sure to become a cherished addition to your recipe collection.