Step into the wonderful world of upside-down desserts, this Upside-Down Blood Orange Cake combines the magic of simplicity and elegance into mouth-watering flavors.
Upside-Down Blood Orange Cake is a true work of art that blends the irresistible sweetness of blood oranges with the gentle perfection of a precisely made cake. This dessert not only catches your eye with its vibrant colors but also promises delightful citrusy notes. Brace yourself to flip tradition on its head and enjoy the unique pleasures of my Upside-Down Blood Orange Cake.
![Upside Down Blood Orange Cake](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Upside-Down-Blood-Orange-Cake.jpg)
You will also like Pudding with Orange, Orange Custard Pudding, Homemade Nougat, Pate de Fruits and Caramel Pudding Cake.
Jump to:
- ⭐Why You'll Love This Upside Down Blood Orange Cake Recipe
- 🧾Ingredients Needed & Substitutions
- 📖Variations of Upside Down Blood Orange Cake
- 👩🏻🍳How to Make Upside Down Blood Orange Cake
- 🔪Kitchen Tools Required
- ❄️How to Store, Freeze, Defrost and Serve
- 💭Tips for Making Upside Down Blood Orange Cake
- ❓Frequently Asked Questions for Upside Down Blood Orange Cake
- 🍛More Dessert Recipes!
- 🎥Watch my Videos
- 📖 Recipe
- 💬 Comments
⭐Why You'll Love This Upside Down Blood Orange Cake Recipe
You'll love this Upside Down Blood Orange Cake recipe for its vibrant citrus flavor, visually appealing presentation with candied orange slices, and the delightful combination of a moist cake that captures the essence of blood oranges in every bite.
![Upside Down Blood Orange Cake](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Upside-Down-Blood-Orange-Cake-1.jpg)
Here are a few reasons to fall in love with this recipe:
- Vibrant Citrus Flavor: The use of fresh blood oranges in both the candied slices and the cake batter provides a burst of vibrant citrus flavor, creating a refreshing and delightful taste.
- Aromatic Zest: The addition of orange zest enhances the aroma of the cake, adding another layer of citrus fragrance that contributes to the overall sensory experience.
- Moist and Tender Texture: The combination of extra virgin olive oil and carefully whipped egg whites results in a moist and tender cake with a light and airy crumb. It's a delightful texture that melts in your mouth.
- Balanced Sweetness: The sweetness of the candied orange slices complements the slightly sweet cake, creating a well-balanced and not overly sugary dessert.
- Unique Presentation: The upside-down arrangement of candied orange slices on top of the cake offers a visually stunning and unique presentation. It's a showstopper that makes for an impressive dessert.
- Simple Elegance: While the presentation is elegant, the recipe itself is approachable. You can achieve a sophisticated dessert without extensive baking skills.
- Versatility: This recipe is versatile and can be enjoyed on various occasions, from casual gatherings to special celebrations. It's a perfect treat for citrus lovers.
- Healthier Choice: With the use of extra virgin olive oil and the goodness of fresh oranges, this cake offers a healthier alternative without compromising on flavor. It's a guilt-free indulgence.
- Satisfying and Comforting: The combination of citrus and cake creates a comforting and satisfying treat. It's a dessert that can lift your spirits and bring joy to any occasion.
- Impress Your Guests: Whether served at a dinner party or as a special dessert, this Upside Down Blood Orange Cake is sure to impress your guests with its stunning appearance and delightful taste.
Overall, this recipe brings together the best elements of flavor, texture, and presentation, making it a standout dessert that you'll love to share and enjoy.
If you want more desserts you should check out Sticky Toffee Pudding and Pumpkin Bread.
🧾Ingredients Needed & Substitutions
Ingredients for this Upside Down Blood Orange Cake recipe are simple. Each ingredient in this recipe contributes specific flavors, textures, and elements to create a well-balanced and delicious dish.
Here is a list of everything you need and a breakdown of what each ingredient provides:
For Candied Orange Slices:
- Blood Oranges: Provide a unique and vibrant citrus flavor, as well as the colorful and visually appealing appearance for the topping.
- Water: Used to create a syrup for candying the orange slices, adding sweetness and creating a glossy texture.
- Sugar: Sweetens the candied orange slices and forms a syrup, enhancing the overall sweetness and presentation.
For Cake:
- Egg Yolks: Add richness, moisture, and structure to the cake batter, contributing to a smooth and velvety texture.
- Orange Zest: Introduces intense citrus aroma and flavor to the cake, enhancing its overall orange profile.
- Orange Juice: Adds natural sweetness and citrus flavor to the batter, ensuring a consistent taste throughout the cake.
- Milk: Provides moisture and tenderness to the cake, contributing to a soft crumb.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Imparts a distinct and fruity flavor to the cake, contributing to its unique taste. It also adds moisture and richness.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake, adding depth and complexity.
- Sugar: Sweetens the cake, balancing the acidity from the oranges and creating a pleasant sweetness.
- Salt: Enhances the overall flavor by balancing sweetness and adding a subtle savory note.
- Flour: Serves as the main structure of the cake, providing the necessary gluten for texture and stability.
- Egg Whites: Whipped to stiff peaks, they contribute to the cake's light and airy texture. The beaten egg whites add volume and help create a fluffy crumb.
Collectively, these ingredients work together to create a harmonious blend of citrus flavors, a moist and tender texture, and an elegant presentation in the Upside Down Blood Orange Cake.
Substituting ingredients in this recipe can be done based on personal preferences or dietary restrictions.
Here are some potential substitutions for the Upside Down Blood Orange Cake ingredients:
For Candied Orange Slices:
- Blood Oranges: You can substitute regular oranges or other citrus fruits for a different flavor profile.
- Water: You may use orange juice instead of water for a more intense citrus flavor in the candied syrup.
- Sugar: You can experiment with alternative sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.
For Cake:
- Egg Yolks: If you need an egg yolk substitute, you can use applesauce, mashed banana, or yogurt for moisture and binding.
- Orange Zest: Lemon zest or another citrus zest can be used as a substitute for a different citrus twist.
- Orange Juice: Replace with another citrus juice like lemon or grapefruit juice for a variation.
- Milk: Non-dairy milk alternatives like almond, soy, or coconut milk can be used for lactose-free or vegan options.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Substitute with melted butter or a neutral oil like canola or vegetable oil.
- Vanilla Extract: Almond extract or another flavored extract can be used for a different aroma.
- Sugar: Experiment with alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar, brown sugar, or a sugar substitute for a different sweetness level.
- Salt: Use a small amount of sea salt or kosher salt as a substitute.
- Flour: Gluten-free flour or almond flour can be used for a gluten-free option.
- Egg Whites: Aquafaba (the liquid from canned chickpeas) can be whipped to replace egg whites for a vegan alternative.
Keep in mind that substitutions may alter the taste, texture, or appearance of the cake. It's always a good idea to test substitutions in small batches to ensure the desired results.
See the recipe card below for a full list of ingredients and measurements.
📖Variations of Upside Down Blood Orange Cake
There are several creative variations you can explore for Upside Down Blood Orange Cake to add unique twists to the classic recipe.
Here are a few ideas for Upside Down Blood Orange Cake variations:
- Mixed Citrus Upside Down Cake:
- Use a combination of blood oranges, regular oranges, and grapefruits for a mixed citrus flavor.
- Candied slices can feature a variety of citrus fruits for a colorful and diverse topping.
- Spiced Orange Cake:
- Infuse warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom into the cake batter for a spiced variation that complements the citrus notes.
- Cardamom Infusion:
- Infuse the cake batter with ground cardamom for a unique and aromatic flavor that complements the citrus elements.
- Almond or Citrus Glaze:
- Prepare a glaze with powdered sugar, almond extract, and a touch of citrus juice to drizzle over the cooled cake for added sweetness and flavor.
- Greek Yogurt Swirl:
- Swirl in a layer of Greek yogurt or citrus-infused yogurt into the batter before baking for a tangy and creamy addition.
- Coconut Blood Orange Cake:
- Substitute part of the flour with coconut flour or add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
- Nutty Crunch:
- Add a layer of chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, on top of the candied orange slices before pouring the cake batter. This adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
- Boozy Soak:
- After baking, brush the cooled cake with a citrus-flavored liqueur, such as Grand Marnier or Cointreau, for an extra layer of flavor and a hint of sophistication.
- Chocolate Drizzle:
- Melt dark chocolate and drizzle it over the cooled cake for a decadent chocolate-orange combination.
- Vegan Upside Down Blood Orange Cake:
- Use plant-based substitutes such as flax eggs, non-dairy milk, and vegan butter to create a delicious vegan version of the cake.
Experimenting with these variations allows you to tailor the Upside Down Blood Orange Cake to your preferences and create new and exciting flavor combinations. Feel free to mix and match these ideas to create a unique and personalized dessert.
👩🏻🍳How to Make Upside Down Blood Orange Cake
These step-by-step instructions and photos will help you to visualize how to make this recipe. See the recipe card for a printable version of this recipe.
How to Make Candied Orange Slices:
![Process 1](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-1-12.jpg)
1. Slice two blood oranges thinly.
![Process 2](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-2-12.jpg)
2. In a saucepan, mix together water and sugar.
![Process 3](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-3-12.jpg)
3. Simmer the mixture, stirring continuously until the sugar completely dissolves.
![Process 4](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-4-12.jpg)
4. Introduce the thinly sliced blood oranges into the syrup that is simmering.
![Process 5](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-5-12.jpg)
5. Allow the orange slices to cook for approximately 7 minutes until they become candied.
![Process 6](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-6-12.jpg)
6. Take out the orange slices, put them on parchment paper, and leave them aside.
How to Make a Cake:
![Process 7](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-7-12.jpg)
1. Gently separate the egg yolks from the egg whites.
![Process 8](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-8-12.jpg)
2. Combine egg yolks, orange zest, and orange juice in a mixing bowl, whisking until thoroughly blended.
![Process 9](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-9-12.jpg)
3. Add milk, extra virgin olive oil, and vanilla extract to the mixture, then whisk thoroughly until well combined.
![Process 10](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-10-12.jpg)
4. Incorporate sugar and salt into the mixture, stirring until thoroughly blended.
![Process 11](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-11-11.jpg)
5. Slowly sift the flour into the mixture while stirring to prevent the formation of lumps.
![Process 12](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-12-10.jpg)
6. Arrange the candied orange slices on the base of a 20 cm cake mold.
![Process 13](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-13-10.jpg)
7. Whisk 3 egg whites in a separate bowl until they reach stiff peak consistency.
![Process 14](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-14-10.jpg)
8. Carefully fold the whipped egg whites into the batter in batches, ensuring complete incorporation.
![Process 15](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-15-8.jpg)
9. Pour the cake batter evenly over the candied orange slices in the mold.
![Process 16](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-16-5.jpg)
10. Place in the preheated oven at 170°C (338°F) and bake for approximately 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
![Process 17](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Process-17-3.jpg)
11. Let the cake cool before flipping it onto a serving plate, unveiling the delightful candied orange topping.
🔪Kitchen Tools Required
Check out all of my kitchen essentials in my Amazon Store!
Here is a list of kitchen utensils for making this Upside Down Blood Orange Cake:
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Pan
- Small Bowl
- Tongs
- Egg Separator
- Large Bowl
- Grater
- Citrus Squeezer
- Whisk
- Measurement Spoons
- Strainer
- Cake Mold
- Hand Mixer
- Spatula
- Cake Server
❄️How to Store, Freeze, Defrost and Serve
Proper storage and freezing techniques help maintain the quality of the Upside Down Blood Orange Cake, allowing you to enjoy its deliciousness even after some time has passed.
Serving Upside Down Blood Orange Cake is a delightful experience, and you can enhance its presentation to make it even more appealing.
Here's a guide on how to store, freeze, defrost and serve this delicious cake:
Storing:
- Room Temperature: If you plan to consume the cake within 1-2 days, you can store it at room temperature in an airtight container or covered with plastic wrap. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
- Refrigeration: For longer storage (up to a week), refrigerate the cake. Place it in an airtight container or cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
- Freezing: If you want to store the cake for an extended period (up to 3 months), it's best to freeze it.
Freezing:
- Cool Completely: Ensure the cake has cooled completely before freezing to preserve its texture.
- Wrap Well: Wrap the entire cake or individual slices tightly in plastic wrap, and then place them in a layer of aluminum foil. This helps prevent freezer burn and maintains freshness.
- Label and Date: If you're freezing for an extended period, label the packaging with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Freeze: Place the wrapped cake or slices in the freezer. If you have limited space, you can also use a resealable freezer bag.
Defrosting:
- Thaw in the Refrigerator: For the best results, transfer the wrapped cake or slices from the freezer to the refrigerator. Allow them to thaw slowly, ensuring the cake maintains its moisture.
- Room Temperature: Once partially thawed in the refrigerator, you can let the cake come to room temperature on the counter for the remaining thawing time.
- Individual Slices: If you froze individual slices, you can defrost them at room temperature or in the microwave for quicker thawing.
Serving:
- Plate Preparation:
- Choose a serving platter or cake stand that complements the aesthetics of the cake.
- If you refrigerated the cake, allow it to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving.
- Inverting the Cake:
- To reveal the beautiful upside-down design, place the serving plate or cake stand upside down on top of the cake pan.
- Hold the plate and the pan together and quickly flip them over. The cake should release onto the plate with the candied orange slices on top.
- Slice the Cake:
- Use a sharp knife to slice the cake into even portions. Wipe the knife clean between cuts for cleaner slices.
- If the cake is dense or has sticky candied fruit on top, consider using a serrated knife for smoother cuts.
- Presentation:
- Arrange the slices on individual plates or a serving platter, ensuring that each portion showcases the upside-down design.
- Pairing Suggestions:
- Consider serving the cake with a side of fresh berries or a citrus salad to complement the flavors.
- A hot cup of tea or coffee can be a perfect accompaniment to balance the sweetness of the cake.
![Upside Down Blood Orange Cake](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Upside-Down-Blood-Orange-Cake-2.jpg)
💭Tips for Making Upside Down Blood Orange Cake
Creating a perfect Upside-Down Blood Orange Cake requires attention to detail and a few helpful tips.
Here are some tips to ensure success when making this delightful dessert:
Choose Ripe Blood Oranges: Opt for ripe and flavorful blood oranges to maximize the citrus taste in both the candied slices and the cake batter.
Precise Candying Technique: Pay attention to the candying process for the orange slices. Simmer them until they are tender, and the syrup has thickened to ensure a sweet and glossy topping.
Parchment Paper: Place parchment paper in the bottom of the cake mold before arranging the candied orange slices to prevent sticking and ensure a smooth release when inverting the cake.
Evenly Arrange Orange Slices: Arrange the candied orange slices evenly and in a visually appealing pattern at the bottom of the cake pan. This will enhance the upside-down presentation when the cake is flipped.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Bring ingredients like eggs, milk, and olive oil to room temperature before incorporating them into the batter. This helps achieve a smoother and more even texture in the cake.
Quality Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for a rich and distinct flavor. Ensure it complements the citrus notes of the blood oranges.
Freshly Grated Orange Zest: Grate the orange zest just before adding it to the batter to ensure a vibrant citrus aroma. Avoid including the bitter white pith while zesting.
Properly Whipped Egg Whites: Whip the egg whites to stiff peaks for the cake batter. This contributes to a light and airy texture in the final cake.
Gentle Folding Technique: When incorporating whipped egg whites into the batter, fold them in gently to maintain their airy structure. Overmixing can deflate the egg whites and affect the cake's texture.
Test for Doneness: Use a toothpick or cake tester to check for doneness. Insert it into the center of the cake, and it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
Allow Proper Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool completely before inverting it onto a serving plate. This prevents it from breaking apart and ensures a neat presentation.
By following these tips, you'll be on your way to creating a delicious and visually stunning Upside Down Blood Orange Cake. Enjoy the process, and don't hesitate to add your personal touch to the recipe!
❓Frequently Asked Questions for Upside Down Blood Orange Cake
Here are some commonly asked questions about making homemade Upside-Down Blood Orange Cake:
Yes, in certain cake recipes, such as upside-down cakes, it is intended to flip the cake upside down after baking to reveal a decorative topping that was initially placed at the bottom of the pan.
Turning a sponge cake upside down after baking helps maintain its light and airy texture by preventing it from collapsing under its own weight.
Upside-down cake typically consists of a layer of fruit, such as pineapple or apples, arranged at the bottom of the cake pan, topped with a batter that, when baked, creates a moist and flavorful cake with the fruit layer on top when inverted.
No, sponge cake and chiffon cake are not the same; while both are light and airy, sponge cake is often made without fat, using whipped eggs for leavening, while chiffon cake incorporates oil and relies on both whipped eggs and baking powder for its texture.
🍛More Dessert Recipes!
Here are more of my favorite dessert recipes! Try these:
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🎥Watch my Videos
This video will show you the details and step-by-step instructions for making this fantastic mouthwatering Pudding with Orange!
📖 Recipe
![Upside Down Blood Orange Cake](https://vargasavourrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Upside-Down-Blood-Orange-Cake-360x360.jpg)
Upside Down Blood Orange Cake
Ingredients
For Candied Orange Slices:
- 2 Blood Oranges
- 120 ml Water
- 120 g Sugar
For Cake:
- 3 Egg Yolks
- 1 Orange Zest
- 40 ml Orange Juice
- 30 ml Milk
- 50 ml Extra Virgen Olive Oil
- 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
- 80 g Sugar
- ¼ teaspoon Salt
- 100 g Flour
- 3 Egg Whites
Instructions
How to Make Candied Orange Slices:
- Thinly slice 2 blood oranges.
- In a saucepan, combine water and sugar.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the sliced blood oranges to the simmering syrup.
- Cook for about 7 minutes until the orange slices are candied.
- Remove the orange slices, place them on parchment paper and set aside.
How to Make the Cake:
- Separate the egg yolks from the egg whites.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together egg yolks, orange zest and orange juice until well combined.
- Pour milk, extra virgin olive oil and vanilla extract and whisk well until combined.
- Stir in sugar and salt and whisk until well combined.
- Gradually sift in the flour, stirring to avoid lumps.
- Place the candied orange slices at the bottom of a 20 cm cake mold.
- In a separate bowl, beat 3 egg whites until stiff peaks form.
- Gently fold the whipped egg whites into the batter in batches until fully incorporated.
- Pour the cake batter over the candied orange slices in the mold.
- Bake in the preheated oven at 170°C (338°F) for about 35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool before inverting it onto a serving plate, revealing the beautiful candied orange topping.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutritional information is based on third-party calculations and should be considered an estimate only. Actual nutritional content will vary based upon brands used, measuring methods, cooking method, portion sizes, and more.
Sandra
So beautiful cake I have oranges I am going to make it soon