Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Beautiful Presentation – The caramelized strawberries create a stunning look when flipped.
• Rich, Buttery Flavor – The soft, moist cake pairs perfectly with the sweet and slightly tangy strawberries.
• Simple Ingredients – Uses pantry staples and fresh strawberries for a homemade, comforting dessert.
• Easy to Make – No complicated techniques, just mix, bake, and flip.
• Perfect for Any Occasion – Ideal for brunch, afternoon tea, or as a show-stopping dessert.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Topping:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, sliced
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• ¾ cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Cake:

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup milk

Directions

Preheat Oven and Prepare the Pan:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Grease and flour an 8-inch round cake pan or line it with parchment paper.

Make the Topping:

1. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
2. Pour the mixture into the bottom of the prepared cake pan.
3. Arrange the sliced strawberries evenly over the butter-sugar mixture, covering the entire bottom of the pan.

Prepare the Cake Batter:

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.

Assemble and Bake:

1. Carefully spoon the cake batter over the strawberries, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Flip:

1. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
2. Run a knife around the edges to loosen it.
3. Place a serving plate on top of the cake pan and flip it over to release the cake. The strawberries will now be on top, creating the beautiful upside-down effect.

Serve:

Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 55-60 minutes

Variations

• Mixed Berry Version – Swap out half the strawberries for blueberries or raspberries for a mixed berry twist.
• Citrus Twist – Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the batter for a bright, fresh flavor.
• Spiced Cake – Incorporate a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the batter for a warm, cozy flavor.
• Chocolate Infusion – Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cake for a decadent touch.
• Gluten-Free Option – Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for up to 5 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
• Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or enjoy at room temperature.

FAQs

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

Grease and flour the pan well, or use parchment paper to ensure an easy release. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before flipping.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Yes, but thaw and drain them first to avoid excess moisture in the topping.

What type of pan works best for this cake?

A round 8-inch cake pan works well. A springform pan can also be used for easy release.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, bake it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Bring it to room temperature before serving.

Why is my cake too dense?

Overmixing the batter or using too much flour can lead to a dense cake. Mix until just combined.

Can I use other fruits for this recipe?

Absolutely! Try peaches, pineapples, or even apples for a different twist.

What can I serve with this cake?

Vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar all pair beautifully with this cake.

How do I know when the cake is done?

Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.

Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?

Yes, you can slightly reduce the sugar in both the cake and topping without drastically changing the texture.

How do I make this cake dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and substitute milk with almond or oat milk.

Conclusion

Strawberry upside-down cake is a delightful and easy dessert that brings together caramelized strawberries and buttery cake in a show-stopping presentation. Whether you serve it warm with ice cream or enjoy a slice with coffee, this cake is sure to be a hit. Try it today and savor the sweet, fruity goodness!

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