Orange Upside Down Cake

Orange upside down cake is a delightful dessert that showcases the vibrant flavors of oranges, making it perfect for gatherings or a cozy family meal. This cake features stunning candied blood orange slices on top, creating an eye-catching presentation. With its moist texture and zesty taste, this Orange Upside Down Cake is sure to impress your guests at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: The straightforward steps make baking this cake enjoyable, even for beginners.
• Flavorful: The combination of fresh orange juice and zest brings a burst of citrus flavor that’s refreshing and delicious.
• Visually Stunning: The beautiful arrangement of candied blood oranges creates an impressive centerpiece for your dessert table.
• Versatile Dessert: Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just a sweet treat after dinner; this cake fits any event.
• Moist and Tender: Thanks to the addition of sour cream, this cake remains moist and tender without being overly sweet.

Tools and Preparation

To create your magnificent orange upside down cake, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• 9-inch round cake pan
• Rubber spatula
• Zester

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: They allow you to combine ingredients easily and keep everything organized.
• Whisk: Perfect for blending dry ingredients smoothly and incorporating air into batters.
• 9-inch round cake pan: Ensures even baking and provides the ideal shape for an upside down cake.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Ingredients

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

For the 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

Begin by slicing the blood orange and navel orange into thin rounds. Set aside. In a saucepan, combine water and sugar over medium heat until dissolved. Add in the sliced oranges and simmer for about 10 minutes until they soften slightly. Remove from heat and let cool.

Step 2: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray.

Step 3: Make the Batter

In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, beat together butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually add in eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in sour cream, fresh orange juice, and zest until combined. Slowly mix in the dry ingredients until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Arrange the candied blood orange slices on the bottom of your prepared cake pan. Pour the batter over the oranges evenly.

Step 5: Bake

Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a platter.

Enjoy your delicious Orange Upside Down Cake, perfect for any dessert lover!

How to Serve Orange Upside Down Cake

Serving Orange Upside Down Cake can elevate any gathering or family meal. This delightful dessert is not only visually appealing but also bursting with citrus flavor, making it a perfect finish to any meal.

Creative Serving Suggestions

• Fresh Whipped Cream: Top each slice with a dollop of freshly whipped cream for a creamy contrast.
• Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm slices alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the sweet and tart flavors.
• Citrus Syrup Drizzle: Drizzle some citrus syrup made from the leftover orange juice for added flavor and shine.
• Mint Garnish: Add fresh mint leaves on top of each slice for a pop of color and refreshing taste.
• Toasted Almonds: Sprinkle toasted almonds over the cake for crunch and an extra layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Orange Upside Down Cake

Perfecting your Orange Upside Down Cake requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips. These suggestions will ensure your cake turns out beautifully every time.

• Use Fresh Oranges: Fresh oranges provide the best flavor. Look for firm, vibrant oranges for the best results.
• Even Slicing: Slice your oranges uniformly so they caramelize evenly during baking, creating a beautiful presentation.
• Grease the Pan Well: Make sure to grease your baking pan thoroughly. This prevents the cake from sticking when you invert it.
• Monitor Baking Time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes before the suggested time.
• Let It Cool Slightly: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting. This helps set the caramelized oranges.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Upside Down Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Upside Down Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some delicious options that complement its bright flavors.

1. Classic Salad: A mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette balances sweetness with freshness.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add a savory touch that contrasts nicely with the cake’s sweetness.
3. Cheese Platter: Offer a selection of cheeses, like goat cheese or brie, which pair well with citrus flavors.
4. Fruit Compote: A light fruit compote made from berries or stone fruits can provide additional fruity notes.
5. Coconut Rice Pudding: Creamy coconut rice pudding adds richness that harmonizes beautifully with orange flavors.
6. Chocolate Mousse: A rich chocolate mousse serves as an indulgent counterpart, creating a delightful balance of flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Baking an Orange Upside Down Cake can be simple, but avoiding common mistakes will ensure your cake is perfect.

• Incorrect Orange Preparation: Not properly preparing the oranges can lead to a bitter taste. Ensure you thinly slice the oranges and remove any seeds before using them.
• Overmixing Batter: Overmixing can create a dense cake. Mix just until ingredients are combined for a light and fluffy texture.
• Wrong Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect the cake’s rise. Always preheat your oven to the specified temperature before placing the cake inside.
• Skipping Greasing the Pan: Failing to grease your pan properly can result in sticking. Use butter or non-stick spray to prevent this from happening.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Stale baking powder or old fruit can compromise flavor and texture. Always use fresh ingredients for the best results.

REMEMBER

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE? CLICK BELOW AND PIN IT

PIN

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store the cake in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Ensure it is completely cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.

Freezing Orange Upside Down Cake

• Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag.
• The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Upside Down Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 30 seconds; check if more time is needed.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making an Orange Upside Down Cake:

What is an Orange Upside Down Cake?

An Orange Upside Down Cake is a moist dessert made with a layer of caramelized oranges on top of a fluffy orange-flavored cake.

How do I make my Orange Upside Down Cake sweeter?

For a sweeter cake, you can increase the amount of granulated sugar slightly or add more candied oranges on top.

Can I substitute other fruits in my upside down cake?

Yes! You can use other citrus fruits like lemons or limes, or even berries for different flavors.

How do I know when my Orange Upside Down Cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean when fully baked.

What makes this recipe special?

This recipe features beautiful candied blood orange slices that add both visual appeal and unique flavor, making it stand out from regular cakes.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Upside Down Cake is not only visually stunning but also bursting with flavor. It’s versatile enough to allow for various citrus adaptations based on your preference. Try it today and enjoy customizing it with your favorite fruits!