Strawberry upside down cake recipe

Strawberry upside down cake is a delightful twist on the classic pineapple version, bringing together the juicy sweetness of fresh strawberries with a moist, buttery cake base. Perfect for showcasing the vibrant flavors of summer, this dessert is sure to become a favorite for gatherings and family dinners alike. Follow this detailed guide to create a strawberry upside down cake that will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet cravings.

Ingredients:

For the Strawberry Topping:

• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
• 1 pound (450g) fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 1/2 cups (180g) all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup (120ml) milk, at room temperature

Instructions:

Step 1: Preparation

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper for easy removal.
2. Prepare ingredients: Ensure the butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for even mixing.

Step 2: Making the Strawberry Topping

1. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the brown sugar until dissolved and bubbling, about 1-2 minutes.
2. Pour the butter and sugar mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
3. Arrange the sliced strawberries in a single layer over the butter and sugar mixture. Ensure the strawberries cover the entire bottom of the pan.

Step 3: Making the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined. Set aside.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, using an electric mixer on medium speed.
3. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Then, mix in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture in three additions, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix on low speed until just combined, being careful not to overmix.

Step 4: Assembling and Baking the Cake

1. Carefully spoon the cake batter over the strawberry layer in the cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
3. Cool the cake in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it from the pan.
4. Place a serving plate upside down over the cake pan, then carefully invert the cake onto the plate. Remove the pan and parchment paper.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve strawberry upside down cake warm or at room temperature, allowing the caramelized strawberries to shine.
• Pair with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat.

Tips for Success:

• Fresh Strawberries: Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best flavor and texture.
• Greasing the Pan: Ensure the cake pan is well-greased to prevent sticking when inverting the cake.

Conclusion:

Strawberry upside down cake is a delightful dessert that celebrates the sweetness of fresh strawberries in every bite. With its caramelized strawberry topping and moist cake base, this dessert is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings. Follow these steps and tips to create a strawberry upside down cake that will impress your guests and become a cherished recipe in your repertoire.