Orange Upside Down Cake

A delicious Orange Upside Down Cake is the perfect dessert for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a casual get-together with friends. This cake not only dazzles the eyes with its beautiful candied blood orange slices but also delights the palate with its bright and zesty flavors. Easy to make and incredibly flavorful, this recipe will become a staple in your baking repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Stunning Presentation: The vibrant colors of blood orange slices create an eye-catching centerpiece for your dessert table.
• Bright Flavor: The combination of fresh oranges and zest results in a refreshing taste that’s perfect for any season.
• Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even beginner bakers can achieve impressive results.
• Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy it cold as a refreshing treat; it suits any occasion!
• Crowd-Pleaser: This cake is sure to impress guests and family alike, making it ideal for gatherings and celebrations.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your Orange Upside Down Cake, gather your tools. Having everything prepared will streamline the baking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• 9-inch round cake pan: Ensures even baking and perfect presentation.
• Mixing bowls: Allows you to combine ingredients easily without making a mess.
• Whisk: Ideal for incorporating air into your batter for a light texture.
• Rubber spatula: Great for scraping down the sides of bowls to ensure all ingredients are mixed thoroughly.

Ingredients

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

For the Citrus 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 Citrus Topping

Start by slicing the blood orange and navel orange into thin rounds. In a saucepan, combine water and sugar over medium heat. Stir until dissolved. Add citrus slices and simmer for about 10 minutes until they become tender.

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 large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and granulated sugar. In another bowl, mix together butter, sour cream, eggs, orange juice, and zest until fully combined. Gradually add this mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.

Step 4: Assemble the Cake

Arrange candied citrus slices at the bottom of your greased pan. Pour batter evenly over the top of the oranges, ensuring an even layer.

Step 5: Bake

Place in preheated oven and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow cooling in pan for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.

Enjoy your homemade Orange Upside Down Cake!

How to Serve Orange Upside Down Cake

Serving your Orange Upside Down Cake can elevate its delightful flavors. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this dessert.

A La Mode

• Serve slices warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a creamy contrast.

With Fresh Berries

• Top with fresh raspberries or blueberries to add a burst of color and tartness.

Drizzled with Glaze

• A light orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice can enhance the sweetness.

Accompanied by Whipped Cream

• Lightly sweetened whipped cream adds a fluffy texture that complements the cake.

With Hot Coffee or Tea

• Pairing your cake with a steaming cup of coffee or tea makes for a cozy dessert experience.

How to Perfect Orange Upside Down Cake

Making the perfect Orange Upside Down Cake involves attention to detail. Here are some helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Oranges: Fresh oranges yield better flavor and aroma compared to bottled juices.
• Evenly Slice Oranges: Ensure your orange slices are uniform for even cooking and presentation.
• Don’t Overmix Batter: Mix just until combined to keep your cake light and fluffy.
• Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean when the cake is done.
• Cool Properly: Let the cake cool in the pan briefly before inverting it onto a plate for easier handling.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Upside Down Cake

Pairing side dishes with your Orange Upside Down Cake can enhance the overall dining experience. Here are some great options.

1. Greek Yogurt: A dollop of plain Greek yogurt provides a tangy contrast to sweet cake.
2. Citrus Salad: A light salad made with mixed citrus fruits brings freshness to each bite.
3. Candied Nuts: Sweet, crunchy nuts add texture and can be sprinkled on top for extra flair.
4. Chocolate Mousse: The richness of chocolate mousse creates a delightful balance with orange flavors.
5. Cream Cheese Frosting: A side of cream cheese frosting offers an indulgent touch for those who love extra sweetness.
6. Herbed Cream Cheese Dip: This savory dip can be an unexpected but delicious pairing alongside the sweet cake.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making an Orange Upside Down Cake, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your dessert turns out perfectly. Here are some mistakes to watch for:

• Using the wrong oranges: Choosing regular oranges instead of blood oranges or navel oranges can alter the flavor and presentation. Stick to the recommended varieties for the best taste.
• Skipping the zest: Not adding grated orange zest can reduce the cake’s citrus flavor. Always include zest for a more vibrant taste.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can lead to a dense cake. Stir until just combined to keep it light and fluffy.
• Neglecting to grease the pan: Failing to grease your pan properly may make it difficult to remove the cake. Use butter or cooking spray generously on all surfaces.
• Not checking doneness: Relying solely on baking time without testing for doneness can result in an undercooked or overbaked cake. Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• The Orange Upside Down Cake can last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Upside Down Cake

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then place in a freezer bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Orange Upside Down Cake

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 10 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices for about 20-30 seconds on medium power.
• Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm gently for about 5 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about Orange Upside Down Cake that may help you with your baking experience.

What is an Orange Upside Down Cake?

An Orange Upside Down Cake is a dessert where caramelized orange slices sit at the bottom of the cake, creating a beautiful presentation when flipped.

Can I use other citrus fruits for this cake?

Yes! You can experiment with lemons, limes, or tangerines while still achieving a delightful upside-down cake.

How do I make my Orange Upside Down Cake more moist?

Adding sour cream helps create moisture. Ensure not to overbake as well, since dry cakes lose their moisture quickly.

What serves as good toppings for Orange Upside Down Cake?

Consider serving with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream to enhance its flavors and add creaminess.

Final Thoughts

This Orange Upside Down Cake is not only delicious but also visually stunning. It’s perfect for gatherings or family dinners. Feel free to customize it by adding different citrus fruits or spices like cinnamon. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful recipe!