Upside-Down Banana Cake

1. Prepare the Topping:
   In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter and brown sugar together, stirring until well combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken slightly. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Pour this caramel mixture into the bottom of a greased 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Arrange the Bananas:
   Carefully place the sliced bananas in a single layer over the caramel mixture in the cake pan. Set aside while you prepare the cake batter.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients:
   In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugars:
   In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. This usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
5. Add the Eggs and Bananas:
   Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, stir in the mashed bananas and vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
6. Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients:
   Gradually add the dry ingredients to the banana mixture, alternating with the buttermilk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
7. Bake the Cake:
   Pour the cake batter over the arranged bananas in the prepared cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula to ensure even baking. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
8. Cool and Invert:
   Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edges to loosen it and carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. Gently lift off the pan to reveal the beautiful banana topping.

Serving Suggestions

Upside-Down Banana Cake is delightful on its own, but you can elevate it even further by serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The warm cake pairs beautifully with a cold treat, making it a comforting dessert for any occasion.

Final Thoughts

Upside-Down Banana Cake is a wonderful way to showcase the natural sweetness of bananas while indulging in a moist and flavorful cake. With its stunning presentation and delicious taste, it’s bound to become a favorite in your household. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a slice of this delightful dessert that’s sure to brighten your day!