Cranberry Orange Upside Down Cake

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by Sarah Connor

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The aroma of a freshly baked Cranberry Orange Upside Down Cake fills the kitchen like a warm hug on a cold day. Imagine cutting into this sweet, tangy delight, revealing the vibrant red cranberries glistening atop a golden, buttery cake. pistachio cranberry quinoa dish The first bite is an explosion of flavors; the sweet citrus dances with the tartness of cranberries, creating a symphony that leaves you asking for seconds.

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This delightful dessert has become my go-to for gatherings and quiet evenings alike. I remember the first time I made it for my family; their faces lit up as they tasted it, and I knew I had struck culinary gold. Perfect for Thanksgiving or just a cozy night in, this cake promises to elevate any occasion.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • This Cranberry Orange Upside Down Cake is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it perfect for beginners and busy bakers alike
  • The vibrant colors and fruity aroma add visual appeal that is sure to impress guests
  • Its unique flavor profile balances sweet and tart perfectly, while its versatility means you can enjoy it any time of year

The first time I served this cake, my mother-in-law declared it “the best thing since sliced bread,” and honestly, who could argue with that? For more inspiration, check out this lemon blueberry cream cheese bread recipe.

Recipe preparation

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish: delicious eggnog sticky buns.

  • Cranberries: Fresh or frozen cranberries work well; choose bright berries for the best flavor.
  • Oranges: Use juicy, organic oranges to enhance the citrus flavor in your cake.
  • Granulated Sugar: Sweeten the deal with sugar; adjust based on your taste preference.
  • Butter: Unsalted butter adds richness; don’t skimp on quality here for better flavor.
  • All-Purpose Flour: Regular flour will give your cake structure; sift before measuring for best results.
  • Baking Powder: Ensure your cake rises beautifully by using fresh baking powder.
  • Eggs: Large eggs add moisture and richness; bring them to room temperature for smoother mixing.
  • Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract enhances flavor; avoid imitation for a more authentic taste.
  • Salt: A pinch of salt balances sweetness and enhances overall flavor in baked goods. savory sweet potato casserole.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or nonstick spray to ensure easy release later.

Create the Topping: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of butter until bubbly. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved, then add cranberries and orange slices. Cook until cranberries begin popping and caramelizing slightly.

Prepare the Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together remaining butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition followed by vanilla extract.

Add Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add dry ingredients into wet mixture until just combined; be careful not to overmix.

Combine Layers: Pour batter evenly over cranberry topping in prepared pan. Smooth the top gently with a spatula for an even bake.

Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in preheated oven and bake for about 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean from the center.

Once out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes before carefully flipping it onto a serving plate. Enjoy watching those cranberries tumble down like little ruby gems!

This Cranberry Orange Upside Down Cake isn’t just dessert; it’s an experience that embodies warmth and joy in every slice! exotic pumpkin coconut curry.

You Must Know

  • A slice of this cranberry orange upside down cake is a treat for the senses
  • The tangy cranberries and zesty oranges create a delightful flavor explosion, while the moist cake melts in your mouth
  • Perfect for family gatherings or a quick dessert fix!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start with preparing the fruit topping first; it needs time to caramelize beautifully. While that’s happening, mix the cake batter for efficiency. This ensures everything bakes evenly and deliciously.

Serving and storing

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap cranberries for blueberries or add nuts for crunch. Experimenting with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can create a warm, inviting flavor profile that suits your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. To reheat, pop slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds until warm and cozy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

  • Always use fresh cranberries for a tart pop; frozen ones might get mushy
  • Make sure your butter is softened for easier mixing, ensuring a fluffy texture
  • And remember, let it cool before flipping to avoid a cake disaster!

The first time I made this cranberry orange upside down cake, my friends devoured it in minutes. I still hear them reminiscing about that day, claiming it’s their new favorite dessert! For more inspiration, check out this slice of heaven cake recipe recipe.

FAQs

FAQ

Can I use dried cranberries instead of fresh?

Dried cranberries will work but won’t provide the same tartness or texture.

How long does this cake last?

The cranberry orange upside down cake lasts up to three days at room temperature.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Bake it a day before serving and store it properly to maintain freshness.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Cranberry Orange Upside Down Cake


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  • Author: Gordon Calloway
  • Total Time: 55 minutes
  • Yield: Serves approximately 12 slices 1x

Description

Indulge in the warmth of a freshly baked Cranberry Orange Upside Down Cake, where tart cranberries meet zesty oranges atop a buttery cake. This delightful dessert is perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy evenings at home. With its vibrant colors and unique flavor combination, this cake is sure to impress. Easy to make and irresistibly delicious, it’s a sweet treat that will leave everyone asking for more.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
  • 2 medium organic oranges, sliced
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter (plus extra for greasing)
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 2 large eggs (room temperature)
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1/4 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
  2. In a saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved, then add cranberries and orange slices. Cook until cranberries begin to pop.
  3. In a mixing bowl, cream remaining butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time followed by vanilla extract.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add to the wet mixture until just combined.
  5. Pour batter over the cranberry topping in the prepared pan and smooth the top.
  6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
  7. Let cool for 10 minutes before flipping onto a serving plate.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 40 minutes
  • Category: Dessert
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 slice (85g)
  • Calories: 240
  • Sugar: 18g
  • Sodium: 150mg
  • Fat: 10g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 3g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 3g
  • Cholesterol: 60mg

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