Name: Blood Orange Upside Down Cake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: Nonstick vegetable oil spray; 1/3 cup raw sugar; 2 blood oranges, sliced thin with seeds removed; 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 3/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1 teaspoon baking soda; 3/4 teaspoon salt; 2 large eggs; 1 large egg yolk; 1 1/2 cups buttermilk; 3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled; 1 heaping teaspoon blood orange zest (approx. 1 blood orange); 2 tablespoons fresh blood orange juice

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 46 reviews

If you have a thing for vibrant flavors paired with a stunning presentation, the Blood Orange Upside Down Cake Recipe is the perfect dessert to add to your repertoire. This cake is an absolute showstopper with its jewel-toned citrus slices caramelized on top, creating a glossy and sweet crown that contrasts beautifully with the soft, moist crumb beneath. The bright, tangy flavor of blood oranges shines through in every bite, balanced by the rich buttermilk batter that keeps the cake tender and slightly tangy. Whether you’re surprising guests or just treating yourself on a cozy afternoon, this cake is guaranteed to brighten your mood and your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A round brown cake with a rough, moist texture sits on a white marbled surface. The top of the cake is decorated with thin orange slices arranged in a circle, showing shades of bright orange and deep red, some glossy and slightly shiny. The cake looks dense and textured, with the orange slices resting evenly on top without any other layers visible. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is the first step toward making a memorable cake. Each element plays a crucial role: from the tang of blood oranges to the creamy richness of buttermilk and the satisfying texture the flour and leavening agents provide. Here’s what you’ll need to bring this delightful cake to life.

Nonstick Vegetable Oil Spray: Ensures your cake releases easily from the pan without sticking.
1/3 cup raw sugar: Creates a caramelized base beneath the oranges for that classic upside-down effect.
2 blood oranges (sliced thin with seeds removed): Adds vibrant color and a tangy citrus flavor that defines this recipe.
2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure for the cake’s tender crumb.
3/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the batter without overpowering the natural orange flavors.
1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the cake rise to light perfection.
1 teaspoon baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to achieve the perfect texture.
3/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors, balancing sweetness and citrus brightness.
2 large eggs: Bind ingredients and add richness to the cake.
1 large egg yolk: Adds additional moisture and color for a silky crumb.
1 1/2 cups buttermilk: Brings a pleasant tang and helps keep the cake moist and tender.
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) unsalted butter (melted and cooled): Adds buttery richness and depth of flavor.
1 (heaping) tsp blood orange zest (approx. 1 blood orange): Intensifies the citrus aroma and taste beyond the slices.
2 tablespoons fresh blood orange juice: Infuses the batter with fresh citrus brightness for a lively flavor throughout.

How to Make Blood Orange Upside Down Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Arrange Oranges

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and spraying a 10-inch cake pan with nonstick vegetable oil spray. This is essential for an easy release when it’s time to invert your cake. Next, scatter the raw sugar evenly across the bottom of the pan to create a sweet caramel base. Then layer your thin, seedless blood orange slices over the sugar. This step sets the stage for that glossy, beautifully patterned top that gives this cake its wow factor.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Combining these first ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and salt throughout the flour, which is key for a uniform crumb and balanced flavor.

Step 3: Whisk the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, vigorously whisk the eggs, egg yolk, buttermilk, melted and cooled butter, blood orange zest, and juice. This wet mixture packs in moisture, richness, and citrus notes, which balance the dry ingredients and bring your batter to life.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and gently fold them together with a rubber spatula. Be careful not to overmix; a few dry spots are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense or tough cake, so keep it light and airy.

Step 5: Bake Your Cake

Pour the batter evenly over the arranged blood oranges and place your pan in the preheated oven. Bake for about 35 minutes, or until the cake starts pulling away from the sides of the pan and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This timing ensures a moist center with a caramelized citrus top.

Step 6: Invert and Cool

Once baked, transfer the cake to a wire rack and let it cool for 5 minutes. Then carefully invert it onto a large plate, gently releasing it from the pan. This crucial final step reveals the stunning blood orange “upside-down” topping that makes this cake truly unforgettable.

How to Serve Blood Orange Upside Down Cake Recipe

A round cake with a golden brown top layer, decorated with a single layer of thin, circular orange slices arranged evenly across the surface. The orange slices have reddish and bright orange colors with a slightly textured, juicy appearance. One slice of the cake is cut and slightly pulled out, showing the soft, moist texture inside that is light brown. The cake sits on a white marbled surface with a vintage silver cake server partially visible under the pulled-out slice. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Serve your cake with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a dollop of freshly whipped cream for an elegant touch. Fresh mint leaves can add a pop of color and a refreshing contrast to the vivid citrus flavor. If you want to dial up the indulgence, a drizzle of honey or a scoop of vanilla ice cream pairs beautifully.

Side Dishes

This cake shines on its own, but if you want to turn it into a full dessert experience, consider serving it alongside a simple citrus sorbet or a bowl of fresh berries. The bright fruit will complement the blood orange flavor, while a cup of strong coffee or a light herbal tea balances the sweetness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re serving at a party or special event, try slicing the cake into smaller portions and placing each slice on a bed of lightly crushed pistachios or toasted almonds for extra texture. Alternately, serve this cake on a rustic wooden board surrounded by slices of fresh blood orange for a centerpiece that will draw everyone’s attention.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Blood Orange Upside Down Cake can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. If you live in a warm climate or want to keep it fresh longer, store it in the refrigerator. This will help maintain its moist texture while preserving the vibrant citrus flavor.

Freezing

You can freeze this cake wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for up to three months. To enjoy later, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before serving. This method helps keep your cake just as delicious as the day you made it.

Reheating

To bring your leftover or thawed cake back to life, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20 seconds or briefly in a preheated oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit for 5-7 minutes. Warming enhances the buttery caramel flavors, making every bite taste fresh and delightful.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of orange if I can’t find blood oranges?

Absolutely! While blood oranges give this cake its signature color and flavor, you can use navel or valencia oranges in a pinch. Keep in mind the color and flavor will be milder but still delicious.

Is it necessary to remove the seeds from the orange slices?

Yes, removing seeds ensures your eating experience is smooth and enjoyable. Seeds can interrupt the texture and can be a choking hazard, especially for kids.

Can I make this cake gluten-free?

Definitely! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend that includes xanthan gum. Make sure the blend is designed for cakes and follow the recipe as written for a similar texture.

How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the pan?

Coating the pan thoroughly with nonstick vegetable oil spray and layering the raw sugar evenly at the bottom are key steps. Letting the cake cool for a few minutes before inverting also helps the cake release smoothly.

Can I make this cake ahead of time for a party?

Yes, you can bake the cake a day ahead and store it covered at room temperature or refrigerated. Just bring it to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly joyful about sharing a cake that not only tastes amazing but looks spectacular, and the Blood Orange Upside Down Cake Recipe hits that sweet spot perfectly. Its balance of tangy citrus and buttery sweetness, paired with that gorgeous caramelized top, is sure to become a new favorite. Trust me, once you give it a try, this cake will bring sunshine and smiles to your kitchen again and again.