Moist Banana Upside-Down Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

If you have a soft spot for banana desserts that feel like a warm hug, you are in for a real treat with this Moist Banana Upside-Down Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe. This cake combines the buttery sweetness of caramel-glazed bananas with a tender, moist crumb that makes every bite utterly irresistible. It’s the kind of dessert that brings comfort and joy to the table—perfect for lazy afternoons or celebrations when you want something special that everyone will love.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the ingredients for this cake is a breeze, yet each one plays a crucial role in building its rich flavor and perfect texture. From ripe bananas that add natural sweetness and moisture to brown sugar that helps create a luscious caramel topping, every component enhances this dessert’s delightful character.

• 3 ripe bananas mashed: The star ingredient providing natural sweetness and moisture to the cake.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour or whole wheat flour: Offers structure while allowing for a tender crumb.
• ¾ cup brown sugar: Perfect for caramelizing and adding depth of flavor with its molasses notes.
• ½ cup unsalted butter softened: Brings richness and helps with the cake’s moist texture.
• ⅓ cup Greek yogurt or sour cream: Adds tanginess and extra moisture for softness.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the acidity in bananas to ensure proper leavening.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Elevates the flavor with a warm, aromatic touch.
• ¼ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional): Adds a comforting spice note that complements the bananas beautifully.
• 4 tablespoons heavy cream: The secret to a silky caramel glaze that finishes the cake with a glossy shine.
• ⅓ cup chopped pecans (optional): Provides a delightful crunch and nutty contrast to the soft cake.

How to Make Moist Banana Upside-Down Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Sugar-Butter Mixture

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures the oven is hot and ready, perfect for baking your cake evenly. While the oven warms up, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar in a mixing bowl until the mixture looks light, fluffy, and heavenly. This step is essential because it forms the base for both the batter’s richness and the caramel’s glossy texture.

Step 2: Mix in Bananas and Yogurt

Add the mashed ripe bananas and Greek yogurt (or sour cream) to the creamed sugar and butter. Stir everything together until it’s fully combined. The bananas not only sweeten the cake naturally but also add moisture, ensuring your cake stays soft rather than dry. The yogurt adds a lovely tang and keeps the crumb tender.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients Separately

In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and optional cinnamon. Preparing the dry ingredients separately helps distribute everything evenly before mixing into the wet ingredients. Cinnamon, if you decide to use it, adds a warm spice note that pairs beautifully with banana.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients into Wet Mixture

Gradually add the whisked dry ingredients into the banana mixture. Stir just until everything comes together—overmixing can hamper the cake’s lightness, and we want nothing but tender, moist bites in every slice.

Step 5: Prepare the Pan and Caramel Base

Grease your cake pan thoroughly. In a small saucepan, melt the remaining butter, then stir in a bit more brown sugar and the heavy cream to create the decadent caramel glaze. Pour a portion of this caramel mixture into the bottom of the pan, which will form the glossy base once baked—this is where the “upside-down” magic begins!

Step 6: Arrange Bananas and Pour Batter

Slice your bananas evenly and layer them on top of the caramel in the pan. Then, pour your cake batter evenly over the bananas, smoothing the top gently. This layering ensures when the cake is flipped, those beautiful caramelized bananas will be showcased on top, making it as visually stunning as it is delicious.

Step 7: Bake the Cake

Place your pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 60 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center—it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs. The cake will rise and fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma during this time.

Step 8: Cool, Invert, and Glaze

Once baked, give the cake a few minutes to cool in the pan. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate to reveal the stunning caramelized banana topping. Drizzle the remaining caramel glaze over the top, and if you’re adding pecans, sprinkle them now for added texture and flavor.

How to Serve Moist Banana Upside-Down Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Simple garnishes such as a sprinkle of chopped pecans add crunch, while a dusting of cinnamon can enhance the cinnamon already in the cake for an extra cozy flavor boost. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs wonderfully, cooling the warm caramel while adding creaminess.

Side Dishes

This cake stands beautifully on its own but also pairs delightfully with fresh berries or a fruit compote to balance the sweetness. A cup of strong coffee or a chai latte also works perfectly, cutting through the richness and enhancing those banana and caramel notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider serving individual portions in elegant dessert plates with a drizzle of extra caramel glaze. You can also get creative by adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes or even a splash of rum in the caramel glaze for adults wanting a boozy twist. Making mini versions in muffin tins gives a charming presentation for parties or gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Moist Banana Upside-Down Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe can be stored tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. For longer storage, keep it refrigerated, where it will remain moist but may need slight reheating before serving to bring back that freshly baked feel.

Freezing

This cake freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag or airtight container. Freeze for up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and gently warm to restore its tender, moist texture.

Reheating

To enjoy the cake warm, reheat slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds or in a low oven wrapped loosely in foil for 10-15 minutes. This softens the cake and revives the luscious caramel glaze, making every bite taste like it just came out of the oven.

FAQs

Can I use overripe bananas for this cake?

Absolutely! Overripe bananas are perfect because they’re sweeter and mash more easily, adding extra moisture and flavor to the cake.

Is it necessary to use Greek yogurt or sour cream?

While not mandatory, Greek yogurt or sour cream adds a pleasant tang and moist texture that helps keep the cake tender and flavorful.

Can I substitute the butter or use a different type of sugar?

You can substitute butter with a plant-based alternative if desired, but it may alter the texture slightly. Brown sugar is preferred for the caramel flavor, but coconut sugar can work as a natural substitute.

What if I don’t have heavy cream for the caramel glaze?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the glaze won’t be quite as rich or silky.

How do I prevent the bananas from turning brown before baking?

Slicing and layering the bananas just before pouring the batter helps minimize browning. Using ripe bananas also means the caramelization during baking will enhance their color and sweetness.

Final Thoughts

It’s easy to see why this Moist Banana Upside-Down Cake with Caramel Glaze Recipe is a beloved dessert that keeps people coming back for more. The combination of moist banana-infused cake and rich, buttery caramel topping makes every bite a celebration of flavors and textures. I encourage you to try this recipe soon—to bake something that not only tastes incredible but also feels like a sweet gift to yourself and those you care about. Trust me, this will quickly become a favorite go-to dessert in your recipe collection!

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