Caramelized Banana Upside-Down Cake
Desserts

Caramelized Banana Upside-Down Cake

ML
By Marie Lefebvre · Updated October 3, 2026

A show-stopping upside-down cake that reveals glistening caramel-coated bananas the moment you flip it. Soft, moist, and wonderfully fragrant, this generous dessert is easier to make than it looks and guaranteed to impress at any gathering.

Prep⏱️ 60 min
Servings👥 20 servings
Difficulty📊 Easy
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🛒 Ingredients

20 servings

20
  • 3½ cups (480 g) all-purpose flour
  • 3 eggs
  • 2 cups (400 g) granulated sugar (for the batter)
  • ⅔ cup (150 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • ¾ cup (200 ml) whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 12 ripe bananas
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar (for the caramel)
  • ¾ cup (200 ml) hot water

Directions

  1. 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Generously grease a large round cake pan, about 16 inches (40 cm) in diameter.

  2. 2

    Using an electric mixer, beat the softened butter with 2 cups of sugar until light and creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.

  3. 3

    Gradually mix in the flour alternating with the milk until a smooth, lump-free batter forms. Fold in the baking powder gently.

  4. 4

    In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, melt 1 cup of sugar over low heat without stirring until an amber caramel forms. Carefully pour in the hot water (watch for splatters) and stir until you have a smooth, fluid sauce.

  5. 5

    Peel the bananas, halve them lengthwise, and arrange them in a single layer on the bottom of the prepared pan.

  6. 6

    Pour the warm caramel evenly over the bananas, then spoon the batter on top and smooth the surface with a spatula.

  7. 7

    Bake for 40 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

  8. 8

    Rest for 5 minutes off the heat, then carefully invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature.

💡 Chef's Tip

Use very ripe bananas with spotted skins for the best flavor and texture. Never stir the caramel while it melts — just gently swirl the pan if needed. The cake keeps well covered at room temperature for up to 2 days.