Delicious Upside-Down Cherry Cake

This delightful Upside-Down Cherry Cake is the perfect dessert for cherry lovers and those who appreciate a sweet, nutty twist. With its buttery base and vibrant cherry filling, this cake is sure to be a hit at any gathering or dinner party. The cake features a moist cake layer topped with succulent cherries, almond slivers, and a hint of brown sugar. Lightly spiced with cinnamon and cloves, each bite offers a comforting warmth. The preparation is straightforward and rewarding, resulting in a dessert that's not only beautiful but also incredibly flavorful. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a beginner, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to follow. The sweet aroma from the oven is irresistible, and the presentation is elegantly rustic. Share a slice with friends and family and enjoy the compliments that come pouring in. Prepare to be delighted with a dessert that tastes as good as it looks.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

750g fresh cherries, pitted
2 tablespoons soft butter
2 tablespoons brown sugar
40g sliced almonds

For the Cake Batter:

200g soft butter
80g sugar
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
1 teaspoon cinnamon
A pinch of ground cloves
3 eggs
200g flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
7-8 tablespoons milk

Preparation Time

Total time: Approximately 80 minutes (including 30 minutes prep time and 50 minutes baking time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F).
Wash the cherries thoroughly and remove their pits. Set aside.
Grease a cake mold with the softened butter, ensuring an even coating on the bottom and sides.
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the buttered mold, followed by the sliced almonds.
Arrange the pitted cherries over the sugar and almond layer, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the soft butter, sugar, grated lemon zest, cinnamon, and ground cloves using a hand mixer until the mixture resembles a thick, creamy consistency.
Add the eggs one at a time to the creamed mixture, mixing well after each addition.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour and baking powder. Gradually fold this dry mixture into the wet ingredients, alternating with tablespoons of milk until a smooth batter is formed.
Pour the batter over the cherry layer in the mold, spreading it out evenly with a spatula.
Place the cake mold into the preheated oven and bake for about 50 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center. If it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it rest in the mold for 10 minutes.
To release the cake, place a large serving platter on top of the mold and flip both together. Carefully lift the mold, allowing the cake to settle on the platter.
Let the cake cool completely before serving.
For an extra touch, dust with powdered sugar or sprinkle with additional chopped nuts before serving.
Enjoy each slice of this flavorful and moist upside-down cherry cake!

Tips

Substitution: If fresh cherries are unavailable, you can use frozen cherries; just ensure to thaw and drain them well before use.
Flavor Enhancement: Add a dash of vanilla extract to the batter for extra flavor complexity.
Nut-Free Option: Omit the almonds if nut allergies are a concern.

Nutritions

Calories: 380 per slice
Protein: 5g
Fats: 22g
Carbs: 42g

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the flour with almond flour or a gluten-free flour mix.
Vegan Variation: Use plant-based butter and egg substitutes like flaxseed for vegan-friendly preparation.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Serve with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of milk for a comforting treat.

Best Places

Cafe de Flore - A classic spot known for its elegant pastries and a slice of Parisian charm. Location: 172 Boulevard Saint-Germain, Paris, France.
Magnolia Bakery - Famous for its beautiful baked goods including cakes and cupcakes. Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, USA.
Dominique Ansel Bakery - Known for its creative pastries and innovative baking techniques. Location: 189 Spring St, New York, USA.
Balthazar - Offers traditional Parisian brasserie fare in a vibrant setting. Location: 4-6 Russell Street, London, England.
Cafe Central - A classical Viennese cafe with a stunning ambiance and delicious desserts. Location: Herrengasse 14, Vienna, Austria.
Pasticceria Marchesi - A historic bakery serving exquisite Italian pastries and sweets. Location: Via Santa Maria Alla Porta, Milan, Italy.
Café Sacher - Best known for its signature Sacher-Torte, a chocolate delight. Location: Philharmonikerstrasse 4, Vienna, Austria.
Confeitaria Colombo - Offers a lavish spread of sweets in an opulent setting. Location: Rua Goncalves Dias 32, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Tatte Bakery & Cafe - A chic spot for European-inspired pastries and dishes. Location: 70 Charles Street, Boston, USA.
Fauchon - Luxurious pastry shop known for high-quality French desserts. Location: 30 Place de la Madeleine, Paris, France.