Banana Upside Down Cake

Banana Upside Down Cake is a delightful twist on the classic pineapple upside-down cake. In this version, ripe bananas are caramelized with butter and brown sugar, creating a gooey and flavorful topping. The cake batter is then poured on top and baked to perfection.

Ingredients:

For the topping:

• 4 ripe bananas, sliced
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 3/4 cup brown sugar

For the cake batter:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup buttermilk

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and set it aside.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until it dissolves and the mixture becomes smooth. Pour this caramel mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
3. Arrange the banana slices on top of the caramel in a single layer, covering the entire bottom of the pan.
4. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
5. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined after each addition. Do not overmix.
7. Pour the cake batter over the banana and caramel layer in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
10. Place a serving plate upside down on top of the cake pan and carefully flip the cake onto the plate. Gently lift the pan off the cake, allowing the caramel and banana topping to fall onto the cake.
11. Let the cake cool completely before serving. It can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature.

Banana Upside Down Cake can be served as is or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat. Enjoy the delicious combination of caramelized bananas and tender cake in this delightful dessert!