Description
This Orange Upside-Down Cake is a delightful twist on a classic dessert, featuring caramelized orange slices that create a beautiful and flavorful topping once inverted. The moist, tender cake is infused with both orange zest and juice, offering a bright citrus flavor that complements the sweet buttery caramel. Perfect for an elegant dessert or a special occasion treat.
Ingredients
Scale
Caramelized Orange Topping
- 2 oranges, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tbsp butter
Cake Batter
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Zest of 1 orange
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan thoroughly and set it aside to prepare for the cake.
- Make Caramelized Orange Base: In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter with 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, stirring until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes bubbly. Pour this caramel mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared cake pan. Arrange the thinly sliced oranges over the caramel, slightly overlapping them for an attractive presentation, then set the pan aside.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Set aside for later use.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, use a mixer to cream 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air and ensures a tender cake crumb.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then mix in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and the zest of 1 orange, which will enhance the citrus aroma and flavor.
- Combine Batter Ingredients: Gradually incorporate the dry flour mixture into the wet mixture alternately with 1/2 cup whole milk and 1/4 cup orange juice, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense cake.
- Assemble and Bake: Pour the prepared batter evenly over the caramelized oranges in the cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating the cake is fully cooked.
- Cool and Invert Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife carefully around the edges to loosen it, then invert the cake onto a serving plate, revealing the glossy caramelized orange topping. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Notes
- Use freshly squeezed orange juice and fresh orange zest for the most vibrant citrus flavor.
- Make sure to grease the cake pan well to help with easy removal and clean inversion.
- Let the cake cool slightly before inverting to prevent caramel from sticking.
- This cake can be stored covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent dessert.
