Upside Down Strawberry Cake – Sweet, Juicy & Stunning
Introduction
This Upside Down Strawberry Cake is a delightful twist on the classic pineapple version. Fresh strawberries caramelize in butter and brown sugar, creating a glossy, jam‑like topping that pairs beautifully with a soft vanilla cake base. It’s simple to make, visually stunning, and perfect for spring gatherings, summer picnics, or any time you want a dessert that feels both homey and elegant.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Fresh fruit focus: Strawberries shine as the star ingredient.
Caramelized topping: Brown sugar and butter create a luscious glaze.
Simple yet impressive: Easy steps with bakery‑worthy results.
Versatile serving: Delicious warm or cooled, plain or with cream.
Ingredients
Strawberry Topping
2 cups fresh strawberries, halved
½ cup brown sugar
3 tbsp butter
Cake Batter
1½ cups all‑purpose flour
1 cup sugar
½ cup butter, softened
2 eggs
½ cup milk
1½ tsp baking powder
1 tsp vanilla extract
¼ tsp salt
Step‑by‑Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9‑inch round pan.
Step 2: Make Topping
Melt butter with brown sugar. Spread mixture evenly in pan. Arrange strawberries cut‑side down over topping.
Step 3: Make Batter
Cream softened butter and sugar until fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla. Mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add dry mixture alternately with milk until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble
Pour batter over strawberries. Smooth top gently.
Step 5: Bake
Bake 40–45 minutes, until golden and a toothpick inserted in center comes out clean.
Step 6: Flip & Serve
Cool 10 minutes. Invert onto a serving plate. Serve warm or cooled.
Tips & Tricks
Extra shine: Brush strawberries with warmed jam after baking.
Fruit swap: Try raspberries, cherries, or peaches.
Moist crumb: Use buttermilk instead of regular milk.
Storage: Keep covered at room temp for 2 days or refrigerate up to 4 days.
Variations
Chocolate Twist: Add 2 tbsp cocoa powder to batter.
Citrus Kick: Add lemon zest to batter for brightness.
Layered Look: Bake in a square pan and cut into bars.
Festive Flair: Garnish with whipped cream and mint leaves.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with vanilla ice cream.
Pair with fresh whipped cream.
Present on a cake stand for celebrations.
Slice into wedges for afternoon tea.
FAQs
Q: Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but thaw and drain well to avoid excess liquid.
Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes, bake and store covered. Reheat slices before serving.
Q: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, bake in a 9×13 pan and adjust baking time slightly.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Bake Time: 40–45 minutes
Total Time: ~1 hour
Servings: 8–10
Final Thoughts
This Upside Down Strawberry Cake is fruity, caramelized, and irresistibly soft. It’s a simple recipe that transforms everyday ingredients into a show‑stopping dessert.