Fresh Strawberry Upside Down Cake Recipe

If you are looking for a show-stopping dessert that combines the sweetness of ripe berries with a moist, buttery cake, look no further than this Fresh Strawberry Upside Down Cake Recipe. This cake features a luscious layer of fresh strawberries and caramelized brown sugar topping that creates a glossy, fragrant crown atop a tender, vanilla-infused cake. The contrast of juicy fruit and fluffy crumb, paired with the nostalgic appeal of an upside-down design, makes it an irresistible treat for any occasion. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a festive gathering, this cake will captivate hearts and taste buds alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

When it comes to this Fresh Strawberry Upside Down Cake Recipe, the magic truly lies in its simple but carefully balanced ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role, whether it’s adding moisture, sweetness, or lift, and together they create a harmony that’s hard to resist.

• Fresh strawberries: Use ripe, hulled, and sliced strawberries for vibrant color and juicy sweetness.
• Unsalted butter: Both melted and softened butter are essential for richness and a tender crumb.
• Brown sugar: Provides a deep caramel flavor that pairs beautifully with the strawberries.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warm, aromatic notes to both the topping and cake batter.
• All-purpose flour: Forms the cake’s structure for that perfect balance of softness and stability.
• Baking powder and baking soda: Help the cake rise perfectly and stay light.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors without overpowering the sweetness.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter while contributing to the tender texture.
• Large eggs: Bind ingredients and create structure and moisture.
• Whole milk: Adds richness and moisture for a soft crumb.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: Gives the cake a subtle tang and extra moistness.

How to Make Fresh Strawberry Upside Down Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9-inch round cake pan. This simple prep ensures your cake won’t stick and bakes evenly for those perfect golden edges.

Step 2: Create the Caramel Topping

In a small saucepan, gently melt ½ cup unsalted butter over medium heat. Stir in the packed brown sugar, cooking for about 2 minutes until the sugar quickly dissolves and blends into a silky caramel. Remove from heat and whisk in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to infuse aromatic warmth. This luscious caramel will be the luscious base that cradles the fresh strawberry slices.

Step 3: Arrange Strawberries

Pour the warm caramel mixture into your prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly so every slice gets an enticing sweet glaze. Then, arrange the sliced strawberries on top in a careful, circular pattern. This not only looks stunning but ensures each bite carries the fresh berry goodness.

Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients

Whisk together 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon salt in a medium bowl. This mixture is the foundation for the cake’s tender crumb and light rise.

Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the ½ cup softened unsalted butter and 1 cup granulated sugar until pale and fluffy—it usually takes about 3 minutes. This step is crucial for aerating the batter, which helps create a soft, light texture. Add in 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each, then stir in 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for that classic, comforting flavor.

Step 6: Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients

Add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients in three portions, alternating with ½ cup whole milk and ¼ cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt). Begin and end with the flour mixture, gently mixing until just combined. This method prevents overmixing, keeping the cake moist and tender.

Step 7: Assemble the Cake Batter

Pour your batter gently over the arranged strawberries in the cake pan, spreading it evenly to fully cover the fruit layer. This creates the perfect “upside-down” effect where the berries transform into a gleaming topping after baking.

Step 8: Bake Your Cake

Place the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes. To check doneness, insert a toothpick into the cake’s center—if it comes out clean, your cake is perfectly baked.

Step 9: Cool and Invert

Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes to set the caramel topping, then carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen. Invert the cake onto a serving plate, and watch the caramelized strawberries shine gloriously on top.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

This cake tastes wonderful served warm or at room temperature. Consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate the experience even further.

How to Serve Fresh Strawberry Upside Down Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped mint leaves or a light dusting of powdered sugar can add a fresh, decorative touch that complements the fruit’s natural sweetness perfectly.

Side Dishes

This cake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad for a balanced brunch or a scoop of sorbet or ice cream to create an indulgent dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party presentation, slice into small squares and serve on mini plates with a drizzle of balsamic glaze to highlight the strawberries’ sweetness, or offer alongside fresh berries and whipped cream for an elegant dessert spread.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or with a cake cover at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer freshness, refrigeration is best, but bring to room temperature before serving to enjoy maximum flavor and texture.

Freezing

This Fresh Strawberry Upside Down Cake Recipe freezes well. Wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly with plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator for best results.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a low oven to revive the buttery softness and luscious toppings, making it taste just like freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries for this cake?

While fresh strawberries provide the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen strawberries. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well to avoid excess moisture that might affect the cake’s consistency.

What’s the best pan to use for an upside-down cake?

A 9-inch round cake pan is ideal because it allows an even layer of topping while baking uniformly. Make sure it’s well-greased to prevent sticking when you flip the cake.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that measures cup-for-cup and includes xanthan gum to maintain the cake’s structure.

How do I prevent the topping from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan thoroughly before adding the caramel topping and strawberries. Using unsalted butter to grease helps control the salt levels in your topping.

Is it possible to add other fruits?

Yes! This recipe adapts well to other berries like blueberries or raspberries, and even stone fruits such as sliced peaches or nectarines for delightful variations.

Final Thoughts

This Fresh Strawberry Upside Down Cake Recipe is truly a celebration of fresh fruit and classic baking that you will want to make again and again. Its moist crumb, caramelized topping, and inviting aroma are sure to brighten any day and impress your friends and family. So grab some ripe strawberries, warm up your oven, and dive into this sweet, fruity delight—your taste buds will thank you!

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