Strawberry Upside-Down Cake

This delightful strawberry upside-down cake is a fresh twist on a classic dessert. Bursting with sweet and juicy strawberries, this cake features a light vanilla sponge that perfectly complements the fruit's natural tartness. The addition of white chocolate adds a subtle hint of richness without overpowering the other flavors. This cake is perfect for any occasion, bringing a touch of summer to your table no matter the season. An eye-catching dessert, it's not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it an excellent choice for gatherings and special events. Its moist texture is achieved through the use of buttermilk, which adds a perfect tender crumb. The use of simple ingredients makes this cake both accessible and impressive. Whether you're a seasoned baker or a novice, this recipe provides clear, step-by-step instructions to ensure your success. Enjoy it as a standalone treat or served with a scoop of ice cream for an extra indulgent experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 200 g strawberries
• 170 g sugar
• 160 g flour
• 150 g buttermilk
• 60 g butter (at room temperature)
• 50 g white chocolate
• 1 egg
• 1 tbsp vanilla extract
• 5 g baking powder (3/4 tsp)
• Powdered sugar for decoration

Preparation Time

Total time: 90 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Preheat your oven to 185°C (365°F). Prepare a 20 cm baking pan by lining it with parchment paper and greasing the sides with a small amount of butter to prevent sticking.
2. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
3. Add the egg to the mixture and continue beating for an additional 2 minutes until well incorporated.
4. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. In a separate bowl, combine the flour with the baking powder, mixing well to distribute the leavening agent evenly.
6. Gradually add the buttermilk and flour mixture to the creamed butter, alternating between the two. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
7. Chop the white chocolate into small pieces and fold into the batter, ensuring even distribution.
8. Cut 100 g of the strawberries into slices and arrange them at the bottom of the prepared pan.
9. Gently pour the batter over the strawberries, smoothing the top with a spatula.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes. To test for doneness, insert a knife into the cake’s center; if it comes out clean, the cake is ready.
11. Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 30 minutes.
12. After cooling, carefully invert the cake onto a serving platter.
13. Dust with powdered sugar for a decorative finish.
14. Decorate with the remaining fresh strawberries for an added pop of color and freshness.
15. Slice and serve, enjoying the burst of flavors and textures in each bite.

Tips

• **Use fresh, ripe strawberries** for the best flavor.
• Ensure the butter is at room temperature for easy creaming.
• Let the cake cool completely before inverting to prevent breaking.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 350 per serving
• Protein: 5 g
• Fats: 15 g
• Carbs: 45 g

Variations

• Substitute **almond flour** for a gluten-free version.
• Swap white chocolate with dark chocolate for a richer taste.
• Replace buttermilk with any plant-based milk for a dairy-free option.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a dollop of **whipped cream** or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
• Garnish with mint leaves for a fresh finish.
• Serve alongside a hot cup of tea or coffee.

Best Places

• The Cake Shop - A charming bakery known for its delightful homemade cakes. Location: 123 Sweet St, New York, USA.
• Berry Delight Bakery - Famous for their creative takes on classic desserts. Location: 45 Dessert Ave, London, UK.
• Strawberry Fields Cafe - Offers a fresh farm-to-table dessert experience. Location: 678 Fruit Rd, Toronto, Canada.
• La Dolce Vita - An Italian patisserie with exquisite pastry offerings. Location: 910 Treat Blvd, Rome, Italy.
• Cake Haven - Delightful cakes and pastries served in a cozy setting. Location: 345 Baker Ln, Sydney, Australia.
• Fraisier Fantasy - Known for its diverse strawberry-themed menu. Location: 765 Confection St, Paris, France.
• Sweet Time Cafe - Offers a wide range of sweet treats, including upside-down cakes. Location: 234 Sugar Rd, Tokyo, Japan.
• Heavenly Bakes - Specializes in both traditional and modern pastries. Location: 456 Heaven St, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Creamy Creations - A creative dessert shop with an extensive cake menu. Location: 678 Frosting Ave, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
• Pastry Passion - Offers a unique twist on classic desserts in an elegant setting. Location: 890 Treat St, Berlin, Germany.