Delight your taste buds with the irresistible flavors of Banana Upside Down Cake. This delectable dessert combines the sweetness of ripe bananas with a moist and tender cake, all topped with a rich caramel glaze. Perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to afternoon tea, this cake is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Join us as we explore each ingredient and its role in creating this mouthwatering treat, along with a step-by-step guide to preparation.
Ingredients:
- Packed Brown Sugar (2/3 cup): Packed brown sugar forms the base of the caramelized topping, adding a rich and molasses-like sweetness. When combined with butter and bananas, it creates a sticky and indulgent layer that infuses the cake with flavor.
- Unsalted Butter (4.5 tablespoons, cut into pieces): Unsalted butter contributes to both the caramelized topping and the cake batter, providing richness and moisture. When melted, it combines with the brown sugar to create a luscious caramel glaze that coats the bananas and seeps into the cake.
- Ripe Bananas (About 3, sliced into 1/4–1/3 inch rounds): Ripe bananas serve as the star ingredient of the upside-down cake, offering natural sweetness and moistness. Sliced into rounds, they form a delicious layer on the bottom of the cake, caramelizing during baking to create a decadent topping.
- Unsalted Butter (1/3 cup, softened): Softened unsalted butter is used in the cake batter to provide richness and moisture. Creamed with sugar and eggs, it contributes to the cake’s tender crumb and buttery flavor.
- Granulated Sugar (¾ cup): Granulated sugar sweetens the cake batter, balancing the flavors of the ripe bananas and adding a subtle sweetness to each bite.
- Vanilla Extract (1 ½ teaspoon): Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the cake batter, adding depth and complexity. Its warm and aromatic notes complement the sweetness of the bananas and caramel glaze.
- Plain Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream (1/3 cup): Plain Greek yogurt or sour cream provides moisture and richness to the cake batter, resulting in a moist and tender texture. Its tanginess balances the sweetness of the bananas and sugar, creating a well-rounded flavor profile.
- Large Eggs (2): Large eggs act as a binding agent in the cake batter, helping to hold the ingredients together and provide structure. They also contribute to the cake’s richness and tenderness.
- Overripe Bananas (2, mashed – about 1 cup): Overripe bananas, mashed to a smooth consistency, intensify the banana flavor in the cake batter. Their natural sweetness and moisture add depth and richness to the overall flavor profile.
- All-Purpose Flour (1 cup) and Whole Wheat Flour (¾ cup): A combination of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour provides structure and texture to the cake. The blend of flours results in a moist and tender crumb, with a subtle nuttiness from the whole wheat flour.
- Baking Powder (1 ½ teaspoon) and Baking Soda (1 teaspoon): Baking powder and baking soda act as leavening agents, helping the cake rise and become light and fluffy. They react with the acidic ingredients in the batter, such as yogurt and mashed bananas, to create bubbles and lift.
- Salt (dash) and Ground Cinnamon (½ teaspoon): A dash of salt enhances the flavors of the cake batter, balancing the sweetness and adding depth. Ground cinnamon adds warmth and spice, complementing the sweetness of the bananas and adding a hint of flavor to the cake.
Preparation Method:
- Prepare the Caramelized Topping: Melt butter and brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring until smooth. Pour the mixture into a greased cake pan and layer sliced bananas on top.
- Make the Cake Batter : In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter and granulated sugar until they create a fluffy and airy blend. Introduce vanilla extract, Greek yogurt or sour cream, and eggs into the mixture, and whisk until fully incorporated. Gently fold in the mashed bananas until they are evenly dispersed throughout the mixture.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together all-purpose flour, whole wheat flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamonSlowly incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet Combine the mixture, stirring until they meld together seamlessly.
- Assemble the Cake: Pour the cake batter over the caramelized bananas in the cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Give the pan a gentle tap on the countertop to dislodge and release any air bubbles trapped within.
- Bake the Cake: Begin by heating the oven to the temperature indicated in the recipe instructions, and place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for the recommended time, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Prepare the Caramel Glaze: In a small saucepan, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, butter, and salt. Heat over medium flame, stirring continuously, until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon. Remove it from the heat source and place it aside.
- Finish and Serve: Once the cake is baked and slightly cooled, invert it onto a serving platter to reveal the caramelized banana topping. Drizzle the warm caramel glaze over the top of the cake, allowing it to drip down the sides. Slice and serve the Banana Upside Down Cake warm or at room temperature, garnished with fresh banana slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Banana Upside Down Cake offers a delightful twist on a classic dessert, showcasing the natural sweetness and flavor of ripe bananas in a moist and tender cake. From the caramelized banana topping to the rich caramel glaze, each element of this dessert contributes to a truly indulgent experience. Whether enjoyed as a comforting treat on a chilly evening or served as a special dessert for gatherings, this cake is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple preparation method, and indulge in the sweet delight of Banana Upside Down Cake today!