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The Ultimate Banana Upside Down Cake Recipe for Sweet Lovers

A rich and moist banana upside down cake that flips the dessert world on its head! Caramelized banana slices baked in buttery brown sugar top a tender banana-infused cake base. Perfectly sweet, slightly tangy (thanks to sour cream), and full of warm flavor, this recipe is a must-bake for banana lovers and those seeking a crowd-pleasing dessert.

Ingredients

Scale

For the topping:

  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • 23 ripe bananas, sliced lengthwise

For the cake batter:

  • 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp baking soda
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup sour cream
  • 2 ripe bananas, mashed

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.

Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the pan and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over it. Arrange the sliced bananas on top in a single layer.

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.

In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, then mix in vanilla extract.

Mix in the mashed bananas and sour cream until well combined.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing just until incorporated.

Pour the batter over the banana layer in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.

Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then carefully invert onto a serving plate.

Allow to cool slightly before serving.

 

Notes

  • Use very ripe bananas for the best flavor and caramelization.

  • Grease your pan thoroughly and line with parchment to avoid sticking during flipping.

  • Allow the cake to cool slightly before inverting to ensure a clean release.

  • Serve warm with ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.

  • Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.