Strawberry Upside Down Cake

This stunning dessert features caramelized strawberries on top of a soft, buttery cake. It’s simple to make but impressive enough for any occasion!

Ingredients:

For the Topping:

• 2 cups (300g) fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• ¼ cup (50g) granulated sugar
• 3 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 ½ cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup (150g) granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup (120ml) milk

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch (23 cm) round cake pan.
2. In a small bowl, mix the melted butter, sugar, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared pan.
3. Arrange the halved strawberries, cut side down, in a single layer over the butter-sugar mixture. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cake Batter

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
2. In a large bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Beat in eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients in three additions, alternating with milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Carefully spoon the batter over the strawberries in the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
2. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 4: Cool and Flip

1. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
2. Run a knife around the edges of the pan to loosen the cake. Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully invert the cake onto the plate.

Step 5: Serve

1. Let the cake cool slightly before serving.
2. Optionally, top with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

Tips:

• For added flavor, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the topping.
• Use ripe, fresh strawberries for the best results.
• If strawberries aren’t in season, you can substitute frozen strawberries (thawed and drained).

Enjoy your Strawberry Upside-Down Cake—a dessert that’s as delicious as it is delightful!