Orange Upside Down Cake

A delicious Orange Upside Down Cake is a delightful treat that brings a burst of citrus flavor to any occasion. With its beautiful candied blood orange slices, this cake not only looks stunning but also offers a refreshing taste that’s perfect for dessert after dinner or a sweet addition to brunch. Its easy preparation and unique presentation make it a standout choice for gatherings, celebrations, or just a cozy family dessert.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Delight: The combination of blood oranges and navel oranges creates a unique blend of sweetness and tartness.
• Visually Stunning: The caramelized orange slices on top provide an impressive look, making it perfect for special occasions.
• Easy Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, allowing both novice and experienced bakers to create a delicious cake without stress.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with whipped cream or chilled as a refreshing treat; it fits any season.
• Citrus Zest Boost: With grated orange zest included, every bite bursts with bright citrus flavor.

Tools and Preparation

To make the perfect Orange Upside Down Cake, having the right tools is essential. These tools will help ensure your baking experience is smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pan: A well-sized pan allows even baking and easy removal for presentation.
• Mixing bowls: Having multiple sizes is crucial for efficiently mixing ingredients without mess.
• Whisk: Ideal for incorporating air into your batter, resulting in a fluffier cake texture.

Ingredients

A delicious and easy orange upside down cake featuring beautiful candied blood orange slices.

For the Fruit Topping

• 1 blood orange
• 1 navel orange
• 2 cups water
• 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

For the Cake Batter

• 4 tsps grated orange zest from about 2 large oranges
• 1 cup strained fresh orange juice (you can add the juice of a lemon if you’d like some more zing)
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 1/2 tsps baking powder
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup unsalted butter
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 3 large eggs

How to Make Orange Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Oranges

Start by slicing the blood orange and navel orange thinly. Set aside. In a saucepan, combine water and sugar over medium heat until dissolved to create a syrup.

Step 2: Caramelize the Oranges

Once the syrup is ready, arrange the sliced oranges in the bottom of your greased cake pan. Pour the syrup over the fruit evenly. Let it sit while you prepare the batter.

Step 3: Mix the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, and grated orange zest. In another bowl, beat together granulated sugar, butter, sour cream, eggs, and fresh orange juice until smooth.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until just combined; do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Carefully pour the batter over the fruit in your prepared pan. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 35 minutes or until golden brown.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate. Enjoy your beautiful Orange Upside Down Cake!

How to Serve Orange Upside Down Cake

Serving your Orange Upside Down Cake can elevate the experience for you and your guests. This cake pairs beautifully with various accompaniments that enhance its citrusy flavor and moist texture.

With Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a creamy contrast to the tartness of the oranges.

A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream

• The cool, creamy vanilla ice cream complements the warm cake, creating a delightful balance.

Drizzled with Citrus Glaze

• A simple glaze made from powdered sugar and fresh orange juice can amplify the orange flavor in each bite.

Topped with Fresh Berries

• Fresh strawberries or raspberries add a pop of color and additional freshness that pairs well with the cake.

Served with Greek Yogurt

• The tanginess of Greek yogurt offers a healthy option that balances the sweetness of the cake perfectly.

Accompanied by Herbal Tea

• A warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or mint, can enhance the overall dessert experience.

How to Perfect Orange Upside Down Cake

To make sure your Orange Upside Down Cake turns out perfect, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh oranges: Freshly squeezed orange juice and zest provide a vibrant flavor compared to bottled alternatives.
• Don’t skip the butter: Using unsalted butter adds richness to your cake, enhancing its overall taste and texture.
• Let it cool properly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for a few minutes before flipping it over. This helps keep the orange slices intact.
• Consider an extra layer: For added flavor, try adding a layer of sliced oranges or tangerines under the batter before baking.
• Check for doneness: Use a toothpick to test if your cake is baked through. It should come out clean when inserted into the center.
• Serve warm: Serving your cake slightly warm will enhance its flavors and aroma, making it more enjoyable.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Upside Down Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Upside Down Cake can create an even more delightful dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Citrus Salad
   A refreshing salad with mixed greens, citrus segments, and a light vinaigrette complements the flavors of the cake well.
2. Honey Roasted Nuts
   Sweet and crunchy nuts provide a hearty contrast that enhances the dessert’s sweetness.
3. Cheese Plate
   A selection of cheeses like brie or goat cheese offers savory notes that balance out the sweetness of the cake.
4. Fruit Compote
   A homemade fruit compote can add extra flavor and moisture when served alongside each slice of cake.
5. Caramelized Bananas
   Warm caramelized bananas bring another layer of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with orange flavors.
6. Meringue Cookies
   Light and airy meringue cookies serve as a delicate side that won’t overpower your main dessert.
7. Dark Chocolate Shavings
   Sprinkle dark chocolate shavings on top for an indulgent touch that complements citrus perfectly.
8. Sliced Almonds
   Toasted sliced almonds provide crunch and nuttiness, enhancing both texture and flavor in every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making an Orange Upside Down Cake can be simple, but some common mistakes can ruin your creation. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the zest: Zest adds a vibrant flavor. Always include it for that extra citrus punch.
• Overmixing the batter: This can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light texture.
• Not greasing the pan properly: A well-greased pan prevents sticking. Use butter or baking spray to ensure easy removal.
• Using unripe oranges: Choose ripe, juicy oranges for the best flavor. Ripe fruit makes all the difference in taste.
• Ignoring the cooling time: Letting the cake cool too quickly can cause it to break apart. Allow it to cool gradually in the pan.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cake in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Orange Upside Down Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
• Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Upside Down Cake

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 20-30 seconds, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Use a non-stick skillet over low heat. Cover and warm for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an Orange Upside Down Cake?

An Orange Upside Down Cake is a dessert made with oranges placed at the bottom of the pan, then covered with cake batter and baked. Once flipped, it reveals caramelized oranges on top.

Can I use other citrus fruits?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with lemons or tangerines for different flavors in your upside down cake.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking?

Make sure to grease your baking pan thoroughly and line it with parchment paper if necessary. This helps with easy removal after baking.

What can I serve with my Orange Upside Down Cake?

This cake pairs well with whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh fruit. These options complement the citrus flavors beautifully.

Final Thoughts

The Orange Upside Down Cake is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different fruits and toppings. We encourage you to try this delightful dessert and enjoy its refreshing taste!