If you’re searching for a dessert that perfectly balances zesty freshness with rich, buttery sweetness, your quest ends here with this delightful Orange Upside-Down Cake Recipe. This cake is not just a treat for your taste buds but a feast for the eyes as well, featuring caramelized orange slices on top that add vibrant color and a luscious, sticky glaze. The moist, tender crumb infused with real orange juice and zest turns every bite into a sunny escape, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Grab your apron, and let’s dive into the magic of creating this charmingly impressive yet downright approachable cake.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Orange Upside-Down Cake Recipe plays a crucial role in building its unique flavor profile and texture. From the fresh oranges that provide bright citrus notes to the balance of baking powder and salt that give the cake its perfect rise and crumb, simplicity shines in every component.
- 2 oranges, thinly sliced: Fresh and juicy, these slices create the signature caramelized topping full of citrus aroma.
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar: Used both for caramelizing the oranges and sweetening the batter, it’s the key to that golden, glossy finish.
- 2 tbsp butter: Melts into the caramel to add richness and depth right at the cake’s base.
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The cake’s structural foundation, providing a tender yet sturdy crumb.
- 1 1/2 tsp baking powder: Helps the cake rise beautifully, ensuring a fluffy texture that holds the moist ingredients well.
- 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all flavors and balances the sweetness perfectly.
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: Creamed with sugar, it brings richness and a smooth texture to the batter.
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds extra sweetness to complement the tangy orange.
- 2 eggs: Provide moisture, structure, and help bind all ingredients harmoniously.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract: Adds warm, subtle floral notes, deepening the cake’s flavor.
- Zest of 1 orange: Intensifies citrus flavor without the acidity, giving a bright aromatic punch.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Moistens the batter and helps create a tender crumb.
- 1/4 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed if possible): Infuses natural orange essence, making the cake truly burst with citrus goodness.
How to Make Orange Upside-Down Cake Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pan and Caramelized Oranges
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9-inch round cake pan. This ensures your masterpiece won’t stick and will come out easily once baked. Next, melt butter and sugar together over medium heat until you achieve a bubbly caramel. Pour this luscious mixture into the cake pan, then artfully arrange the thin orange slices on top, slightly overlapping to mimic a floral pattern. This step sets the stage for that stunning, glossy orange crown.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Keeping these dry ingredients ready helps you seamlessly mix the cake batter later and ensures even distribution of leavening agents for a perfect rise.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, use a mixer to beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the texture is light and fluffy. This process traps air and is key for a soft, tender crumb. Add the eggs one by one, mixing thoroughly after each addition to maintain that fluffy consistency. Then stir in vanilla extract and orange zest, which infuse fragrant sweetness and vibrant citrus aroma.
Step 4: Incorporate Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually fold the flour mixture into your creamed butter, alternating with the whole milk and fresh orange juice. Starting and ending with the dry ingredients helps maintain the batter’s consistency and prevents overmixing. Stir just enough until everything is combined; this will keep your cake tender and moist.
Step 5: Assemble and Bake
Pour the batter over the caramelized orange slices in your prepared pan, spreading it evenly to cover the fruit completely. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This baking time allows the cake to develop a golden crust while the interior stays moist with a gentle, fruity tang.
Step 6: Cool and Invert
Once baked, let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This short rest helps the caramel set slightly, so when you run a knife around the edges and carefully flip the cake onto a serving plate, those gorgeous caramelized orange slices release beautifully onto the top, turning your cake into a visually stunning centerpiece.
How to Serve Orange Upside-Down Cake Recipe
Garnishes
A light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream complements this cake beautifully, adding a touch of elegance and balancing the citrusy sweetness. Fresh orange zest sprinkled on top can amplify the orange aroma and brighten every bite even more.
Side Dishes
This Orange Upside-Down Cake Recipe pairs wonderfully with a cup of Earl Grey tea or a light citrusy cocktail, like a mimosa, for brunch or dessert gatherings. A scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream can also elevate the experience, bringing creamy cooling contrast to the warm, caramelized oranges.
Creative Ways to Present
For extra flair, serve individual slices with a drizzle of caramel sauce or alongside a few candied orange peels. You can also garnish the serving plate with edible flowers or mint leaves to enhance presentation and make your dessert table look truly special.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftovers covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This cake holds onto its moisture well, so it remains soft and flavorful without drying out quickly.
Freezing
You can freeze the cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bring it to room temperature before serving to preserve the texture and taste.
Reheating
Warm individual slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or briefly in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for around 10 minutes. This revives the cake’s tender crumb and enhances the sticky caramel’s gooey allure without overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use navel oranges instead of regular oranges?
Absolutely! Navel oranges work wonderfully in this Orange Upside-Down Cake Recipe because of their sweetness and easy-to-slice texture. Just make sure to choose firm, fresh oranges for the best caramelization effect.
Is it necessary to use fresh orange juice?
Freshly squeezed orange juice offers the brightest citrus flavor, which really shines through in the cake, but bottled juice can be used in a pinch. Just avoid those with added sugar or preservatives to keep the taste natural.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend designed for baking. Keep the ratios the same and ensure your baking powder is gluten-free. This swap won’t compromise the cake’s texture or flavor.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking when flipping it out of the pan?
Greasing the pan thoroughly and using a knife to loosen the sides after cooling are key steps. Also, allowing the cake to cool for about 10 minutes helps the caramelized topping set so it releases cleanly when inverted.
Can I add spices like cinnamon or ginger to the batter?
Definitely! Adding a pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger complements the orange flavor beautifully and adds a warm spice note, giving your Orange Upside-Down Cake Recipe a cozy twist perfect for cooler weather.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of sharing a slice of this bright, moist, and caramel-kissed Orange Upside-Down Cake Recipe with friends and family. Its inviting citrus flavor and stunning presentation make it a timeless classic that’s surprising easy to pull off. So, go ahead and give this recipe a whirl—you’re destined to make it a treasured favorite in your dessert rotation.
Print
Orange Upside-Down Cake Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Orange Upside-Down Cake features caramelized orange slices atop a tender, moist cake infused with fresh orange zest and juice. The citrusy, buttery sweetness is perfectly balanced and makes for a stunning dessert presentation, ideal for any special occasion or a delightful treat.
Ingredients
Caramelized Oranges
- 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 get ready for the caramelized orange base.
- Make Caramelized Oranges: 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 is bubbly. Immediately pour this caramel mixture into the bottom of the prepared cake pan and arrange the thinly sliced oranges on top, slightly overlapping for an attractive pattern. Set aside.
- Mix 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. This will ensure even distribution of the leavening agents throughout the cake batter.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream 1/2 cup softened unsalted butter with 3/4 cup granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This aerates the batter, resulting in a tender cake texture.
- Add Eggs and Flavorings: Beat in 2 eggs, one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated. Stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract and the zest of 1 orange, adding fragrant citrus notes to the batter.
- Combine Batter Ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with 1/2 cup whole milk and 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice. Start and finish with the dry ingredients. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the batter.
- Assemble Cake: Pour the prepared batter evenly over the caramelized oranges in the cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool and Invert: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife carefully around the edges to loosen it. Then, place a serving plate on top of the cake pan and invert the cake, releasing it so the caramelized orange topping is displayed beautifully.
Notes
- Use fresh oranges for the best flavor and presentation in the caramelized topping.
- If you prefer a less sweet topping, reduce the sugar in the caramel mixture by a quarter.
- Make sure to cool the cake slightly before inverting to prevent the topping from sticking or sliding off.
- The cake can be served warm or at room temperature, optionally with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
