Bursting with fresh citrus flavour and featuring a caramelized orange topping, this cake is not only a visual delight but also a treat for your taste buds. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving something unique, this easy orange upside-down cake recipe is sure to impress. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or non-stick spray.
In a small saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add 1/2 cup of brown sugar and stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture becomes a smooth caramel. Pour the caramel mixture evenly into the prepared cake pan. Arrange the thin slices of oranges in a circular pattern over the caramel, making sure to overlap them slightly for a beautiful design.
Set the pan aside. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract, orange zest, and orange juice until well combined. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Carefully spoon the batter over the orange slices in the cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the centre of the cake comes out clean. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. After the cake has cooled slightly, run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen it.
Place a serving plate over the cake pan, then carefully invert the cake onto the plate. The caramelized orange slices will be on top, creating a beautiful presentation. Allow the Orange Upside Down Cake to cool completely before slicing and serving. Enjoy this flavorful citrus cake on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream.
The combination of sweet caramel, juicy oranges, and a tender cake makes this dessert unforgettable. Perfect for special occasions or simply indulging in something delightful, this orange cake recipe will surely become a favourite in your dessert rotation.
Ingredients:
For the Topping:
- 3 medium oranges, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
For the Cake Batter:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tsp orange zest (fresh)
- 1/4 cup fresh orange juice
- 2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
