Description
Strawberry upside down cake is a unique take on the classic upside down cake, a dessert where fruits, often caramelized, are placed at the bottom of the cake pan and the batter is poured over it. Once baked, the cake is flipped to reveal a beautiful layer of caramelized fruit on top. In this recipe, fresh strawberries create a luscious topping that contrasts perfectly with the soft, light cake beneath.
Ingredients
For the Strawberry Topping:
-
4 tablespoons (½ stick) unsalted butter
-
¾ cup brown sugar, packed
-
1 pound fresh strawberries (about 3 cups), hulled and halved (or quartered if large)
-
1 tablespoon lemon juice
-
½ teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cake:
-
1½ cups all-purpose flour
-
1½ teaspoons baking powder
-
¼ teaspoon salt
-
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
-
1 cup granulated sugar
-
2 large eggs, at room temperature
-
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
-
½ teaspoon almond extract (optional)
-
½ cup milk, at room temperature
-
Optional: 1 tablespoon finely grated lemon zest for extra flavor
For Serving (Optional):
-
Whipped cream
-
Fresh strawberry slices
-
Mint leaves for garnish
Instructions
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake the cake. Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a cast-iron skillet to prevent the cake from sticking during baking.
In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until it’s fully dissolved and begins to bubble, about 2-3 minutes. Once it reaches this stage, remove it from heat. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Pour this caramelized mixture evenly into the prepared cake pan, creating the perfect base for your strawberries.
Next, carefully arrange the halved strawberries in a single layer, cut side up, over the caramelized mixture. Pack the strawberries tightly together to make sure they fit within the pan, creating an attractive and even layer.
In a separate bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that the dry ingredients are evenly distributed before being incorporated into the wet ingredients.
In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer. Beat for about 3-4 minutes, until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial for creating a soft, tender cake texture.
Add the eggs to the creamed butter and sugar mixture, one at a time, making sure to beat well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), and lemon zest (optional) to infuse the batter with aromatic flavor.
Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour. This helps maintain a smooth batter while preventing overmixing. Mix just until combined after each addition.
Carefully spoon or pour the batter over the arranged strawberries. Spread the batter evenly using a spatula to cover the fruit layer completely. This ensures that the strawberries remain protected while baking.
Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the cake is golden brown on top. Keep an eye on the cake towards the end of the baking time to avoid overbaking.
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This step makes it easier to remove the cake from the pan. Run a knife around the edge to loosen the cake, and then carefully flip the pan onto a serving plate, so the strawberry topping is now on top.
Let the cake cool slightly before serving. You can enjoy it warm or at room temperature, and if desired, serve it with a dollop of whipped cream, fresh strawberry slices, and a few mint leaves for garnish.
Notes
This Strawberry Upside Down Cake is as beautiful as it is delicious, with caramelized strawberries on top and a moist, tender crumb. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra-special treat.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Strawberry Upside Down Cake Recipe