Homemade Strawberry Upside Down Cake

Bright, buttery, and bursting with juicy strawberries, this Strawberry Upside Down Cake is the ultimate dessert for spring and summer gatherings. With its caramelized fruit topping and soft, tender crumb, it’s both visually stunning and incredibly easy to make. Whether served warm with ice cream or enjoyed with coffee, this cake is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Light, buttery cake with a caramelized strawberry topping
• Perfect dessert for spring, summer, or any celebration
• Made with simple pantry ingredients — no mixer required
• Looks beautiful when flipped and served
• Great way to use fresh or frozen strawberries

Ingredients

For the Strawberry Topping

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1/3 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons melted butter

For the Cake Batter

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup sour cream (or plain Greek yogurt)
• 1/4 cup milk

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Strawberry Layer: Pour melted butter into the bottom of the pan. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly. Arrange sliced strawberries in a single layer to cover the bottom completely.
3. Mix the Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
4. Cream the Butter and Sugar: In a separate large bowl, beat softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and sour cream. Mix until smooth.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, until fully incorporated. Avoid overmixing.
6. Assemble the Cake: Pour batter evenly over the strawberries. Smooth the top with a spatula.
7. Bake: Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
8. Invert the Cake: Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Remove parchment paper to reveal the glossy strawberry topping.
9. Serve: Serve warm or at room temperature with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Tips & Variations

• Use Frozen Strawberries: Thaw and drain before layering.
• Citrus Twist: Add lemon zest to the batter for a fresh touch.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute butter and milk with plant-based alternatives.
• Fruit Variations: Swap strawberries for raspberries, peaches, or pineapple.
• Add Toppings: Drizzle with melted white chocolate or serve with strawberry glaze.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Room Temperature: Store covered for up to 2 days.
• Refrigerate: Keeps up to 5 days in an airtight container.
• Freeze: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze up to 2 months.
• Reheat: Warm slices in the microwave for 20 seconds for a fresh taste.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with hot coffee, iced tea, or fresh lemonade.
• Top with extra sliced strawberries for a fresh garnish.
• Add a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant finish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes. Bake the cake, cool it completely, and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat slightly before serving to refresh the flavors.

Can I use frozen strawberries?

Absolutely. Just make sure they’re thawed and drained well to prevent excess moisture in the topping.

What type of pan works best?

A 9-inch round or square baking pan works perfectly. Avoid springform pans since the syrup might leak.

How can I keep the cake from sticking when flipping?

Grease the pan well and use parchment paper on the bottom to ensure an easy release.

Ready to Make It?

This Strawberry Upside Down Cake is the perfect balance of simple and stunning. It’s sweet, moist, and full of bright strawberry flavor. Perfect for brunches, birthdays, or just because, save this recipe and bake it anytime you need a dessert that brings smiles to the table.

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