A delicious Orange Upside Down Cake is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day. This cake features beautiful candied blood orange slices that not only look stunning but also add a vibrant flavor. The combination of zesty oranges and a moist cake creates an unforgettable dessert that will impress your guests.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake is perfect for bakers of all levels.
- Stunning Presentation: The candied oranges create a beautiful topping that makes this cake a showstopper.
- Bursting with Flavor: The blend of blood orange and navel orange gives the cake a refreshing citrus flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Versatile Dessert: Ideal for birthdays, brunches, or just as an afternoon snack with tea or coffee.
- Moist and Delicious: Thanks to the addition of sour cream, each slice is rich and tender.
Tools and Preparation
Before we dive into making your Orange Upside Down Cake, you’ll want to gather some essential tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
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: This size ensures even baking and helps achieve the perfect height for your cake.
- Mixing bowls: Using different sizes allows you to efficiently prepare and combine your ingredients without mess.
- Whisk: A good whisk incorporates air into your batter, leading to a light and fluffy cake texture.
Ingredients
A delicious and easy orange upside down cake featuring beautiful candied blood orange slices.
For the Cake
- 1 blood orange
- 1 navel orange
- 2 cups water
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar
- 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
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Orange Upside Down Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Oranges
Start by slicing the blood orange and navel orange into thin rounds. Remove any seeds you find. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Syrup
In a saucepan, combine 2 cups of water with 1 ½ cups granulated sugar. Heat over medium until it dissolves completely. Add the sliced oranges to the syrup and simmer for about 10 minutes until they soften slightly. Remove from heat.
Step 3: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease your 9-inch round cake pan with butter or cooking spray.
Step 4: Arrange Oranges in Pan
Carefully arrange the candied orange slices at the bottom of your prepared cake pan. Pour some syrup over them to enhance flavor.
Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients
In one bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
Step 6: Cream Butter and Sugar
In another bowl, cream together unsalted butter and remaining sugar until light and fluffy.
Step 7: Add Wet Ingredients
Beat in sour cream, eggs, freshly squeezed orange juice, and grated zest until well combined.
Step 8: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients while mixing until just combined.
Step 9: Bake
Pour batter over arranged oranges in the pan. Bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean when inserted in the center.
Step 10: Cool & Serve
Let cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream if desired!
How to Serve Orange Upside Down Cake
Serving your Orange Upside Down Cake can elevate your dessert experience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, these serving suggestions will enhance the delightful flavors of this cake.
With Whipped Cream
- Adding a dollop of freshly whipped cream provides a light and airy contrast to the dense cake.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully over the warm cake, creating a deliciously creamy texture.
Drizzle with Orange Glaze
- A simple orange glaze made from powdered sugar and orange juice can add an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Top with Fresh Berries
- Garnish your cake with fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries for a pop of color and tartness.
Serve with Coffee or Tea
- Enjoying a slice with a cup of coffee or tea makes for a comforting afternoon treat.
Add Zesty Yogurt
- A spoonful of zesty yogurt can bring a refreshing tang that complements the sweetness of the cake.
How to Perfect Orange Upside Down Cake
To ensure your Orange Upside Down Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use fresh oranges: Fresh oranges provide the best flavor and aroma, enhancing the overall taste of your cake.
- Don’t skip the zest: Grating orange zest adds depth and richness, making your cake more aromatic and flavorful.
- Monitor baking time: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes; overbaking can lead to dryness. A toothpick should come out clean when it’s done.
- Allow cooling time: Let your cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting. This helps it hold its shape better.
- Experiment with spices: Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can give an interesting twist to your orange upside down cake.
- Storage matters: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days for optimal freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Orange Upside Down Cake
Pairing side dishes with your Orange Upside Down Cake can create a delightful meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Greek Salad: A fresh Greek salad with feta cheese and olives provides a savory contrast to the sweet cake.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add warmth and balance out the sweetness of the dessert.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, such as brie or gouda, pairs well with the bright flavors of the cake.
- Fruit Salad: A colorful fruit salad complements your dessert while adding refreshing notes.
- Chocolate Mousse: Rich chocolate mousse offers a decadent pairing that contrasts nicely with citrus flavors.
- Nutty Granola: Serving granola on the side adds crunch and texture, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Baking an Orange Upside Down Cake is fun, but there are some common mistakes you should avoid to ensure your cake turns out perfectly.
- Using Unripe Oranges: Always choose ripe oranges for the best flavor. Unripe oranges can make your cake taste bitter and less sweet.
- Not Prepping the Pan Properly: Failing to grease the pan or line it with parchment paper can cause your cake to stick. Make sure to prepare the pan well for easy removal.
- Overmixing the Batter: Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until combined for a light and fluffy texture.
- Ignoring Oven Temperature: Baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and texture. Always preheat your oven and use an oven thermometer if needed.
- Skipping the Zest: Orange zest adds essential flavor. Don’t skip this step; it enhances the overall citrus experience of your cake.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- The cake will last up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
- Keep it covered to prevent drying out.
Freezing Orange Upside Down Cake
- Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap.
- Use a freezer-safe container or bag for extra protection.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Orange Upside Down Cake
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals of 20-30 seconds until warm. Be cautious not to overheat.
- Stovetop: Place a slice in a skillet over low heat, cover, and warm for about 5 minutes, allowing it to soften without drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes this Orange Upside Down Cake special?
This cake features beautiful candied blood orange slices that add a unique touch and vibrant color, making it visually stunning and delicious.
Can I use other citrus fruits in this recipe?
Yes! Other citrus fruits like tangerines or lemons can also work well in an upside-down cake, giving you different flavors.
How do I know when my Orange Upside Down Cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached.
Can I customize my Orange Upside Down Cake?
Absolutely! You can add nuts, spices like cinnamon, or even chocolate chips to enhance its flavor profile according to your preference.
Final Thoughts
This Orange Upside Down Cake is not only a delightful dessert but also a versatile recipe that allows for customization. Its bright flavor from fresh oranges and stunning presentation makes it perfect for any occasion. Try experimenting with different citrus fruits or toppings to make it truly unique!
Orange Upside Down Cake
Indulge in the delightful flavors of Orange Upside Down Cake, a perfect dessert that elevates any occasion. With its stunning candied blood orange slices, this cake is not only visually appealing but also bursting with refreshing citrus flavor. The moist texture from sour cream combined with the zesty notes of blood and navel oranges creates an unforgettable experience for your taste buds. Easy to make and versatile, it’s ideal for family gatherings, brunches, or simply a sweet treat to brighten your day. Serve it warm with whipped cream or alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgence.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 blood orange
- 1 navel orange
- 2 cups water
- 1 ½ cups granulated sugar (divided)
- 4 teaspoons grated orange zest
- 1 cup strained fresh orange juice
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ⅓ cup unsalted butter
- ⅓ cup sour cream
- 3 large eggs
Instructions
- Slice the blood and navel oranges into thin rounds; set aside.
- In a saucepan, combine water and 1½ cups sugar; heat until dissolved. Add orange slices and simmer for about 10 minutes. Remove from heat.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Arrange candied orange slices in the bottom of the pan and pour some syrup over them.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt; set aside.
- Cream butter and remaining sugar until fluffy in another bowl.
- Beat in sour cream, eggs, orange juice, and zest until combined.
- Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined.
- Pour batter over oranges in the pan and bake for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
- Calories: 230
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 37g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: <3g
- Cholesterol: 55mg