Introduction
The Cherry Upside Down Cake is a timeless dessert that has charmed generations with its sweet, juicy cherries and tender, buttery cake. This delightful confection not only pleases the palate but also offers a visual feast with its glossy, ruby-red topping. The cake’s origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, where it gained popularity as a simple yet impressive treat for family gatherings and special occasions. Our recipe ensures that every bite is a perfect balance of tart cherries and rich, moist cake. Let’s dive into the world of this classic dessert and discover how to create a Cherry Upside Down Cake that will surely become a favorite in your home.
History of the Cherry Upside Down Cake
The concept of upside-down cakes dates back centuries, but the modern version, popularized in the 1920s and 1930s, became a household staple. Originally, pineapple was the fruit of choice, but cherries soon found their way into this beloved recipe. The bright, tart cherries contrasted beautifully with the caramelized sugar, creating a dessert that was as delightful to look at as it was to eat. Over time, the Cherry Upside Down Cake evolved, incorporating various techniques and ingredients to enhance its flavor and texture. Today, it remains a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of bakers who continue to reinvent classic recipes.
Ingredients
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter, melted
- 3/4 cup (150g) packed light brown sugar
- 2 cups (about 350g) fresh or frozen pitted cherries (thawed and drained if using frozen)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Cake:
- 1 and 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 and 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk, at room temperature
- 1/4 cup (60g) sour cream, at room temperature
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Topping
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and set it aside.
- Melt the Butter: In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter over low heat.
- Add Brown Sugar: Once the butter is melted, add 3/4 cup of light brown sugar and stir until the mixture is smooth and combined. Remove from heat.
- Spread the Mixture: Pour the butter and sugar mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange the Cherries: Arrange the pitted cherries over the sugar mixture in a single layer. Ensure the cherries cover the entire surface evenly.
- Add Vanilla Extract: Drizzle 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract over the cherries.
Step 2: Make the Cake Batter
- Sift Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together 1 and 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 and 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat 1/2 cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar together until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
- Combine Milk and Sour Cream: In a small bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of whole milk and 1/4 cup of sour cream until smooth.
- Mix Dry and Wet Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture in three parts, alternating with the milk mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Pour the Batter: Pour the prepared cake batter over the cherries in the cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Smooth the Surface: Smooth the top of the batter to ensure it bakes evenly.
- Bake the Cake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool the Cake: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen it, then invert the cake onto a serving plate. Let it cool completely before serving.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and Serve: Slice the Cherry Upside Down Cake into wedges and serve it as is, or with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
- Store Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Tips and Variations
- Use Fresh or Frozen Cherries: Fresh cherries are ideal, but frozen cherries work well too. Just make sure they are thawed and well-drained to avoid excess moisture in the cake.
- Add a Zest of Citrus: For an extra burst of flavor, add a teaspoon of lemon or orange zest to the cake batter.
- Experiment with Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg in the cake batter can add a warm, cozy flavor to the cake.
- Try Different Fruits: While cherries are classic, you can substitute them with other fruits like peaches, plums, or berries for a unique twist.
Nutritional Information
Understanding the nutritional content of your Cherry Upside Down Cake is essential, especially if you are mindful of your diet. Here’s a breakdown of the approximate nutritional values per serving (based on a 10-serving cake):
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 65mg
- Sodium: 110mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 39g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 26g
- Protein: 3g
These values can vary slightly based on the exact ingredients and portion sizes used. Enjoy your cake in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Rich History and Tradition: This cake carries a rich culinary history, making it a delightful addition to any dessert table.
- Visual Appeal: The vibrant red cherries against the golden cake create an eye-catching presentation.
- Flavorful Layers: The combination of tart cherries and sweet, caramelized sugar offers a perfect balance of flavors.
- Versatile Ingredients: The recipe is flexible, allowing you to experiment with different fruits and flavorings.
- Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this cake is accessible even for novice bakers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Canned Cherries?
Yes, you can use canned cherries if fresh or frozen are not available. Make sure to drain them well to avoid excess liquid in your cake.
How Do I Store Leftover Cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate the cake, and it will keep for up to a week.
Can I Make This Cake in Advance?
Absolutely! The Cherry Upside Down Cake can be made a day ahead. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.
What’s the Best Way to Serve This Cake?
Serve the cake slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s also delightful with a cup of coffee or tea.
Troubleshooting Tips
Cake Sticking to the Pan
Ensure you grease the cake pan thoroughly before adding the butter and sugar mixture. Running a knife around the edges before inverting the cake also helps.
Soggy Cake Bottom
This can occur if the cherries release too much liquid. To prevent this, make sure to drain any excess liquid from the cherries before using them.
Cake Not Rising Properly
Double-check the expiration dates on your baking powder and ensure you are measuring ingredients accurately. Overmixing the batter can also affect the rise, so mix until just combined.
Cherry Upside Down Cake Variations
Chocolate Cherry Upside Down Cake
Add 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to the dry ingredients and 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, chocolatey twist on the classic recipe.
Cherry Almond Upside Down Cake
Replace half of the all-purpose flour with almond flour and add 1 teaspoon of almond extract to the batter. Sprinkle sliced almonds over the cherry layer before adding the cake batter.
Spiced Cherry Upside Down Cake
Incorporate 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, spiced version of the cake.
Cherry Citrus Upside Down Cake
Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the cake batter for a refreshing citrus flavor that complements the cherries beautifully.
Conclusion
The Cherry Upside Down Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a celebration of flavor, history, and the joy of baking. With its beautiful presentation and irresistible taste, this cake is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are an experienced baker or a novice in the kitchen, this recipe will guide you to create a dessert that is sure to impress. Remember, the key to a perfect Cherry Upside Down Cake is patience and attention to detail, ensuring each step is followed carefully for the best results.