Are you looking for a dessert that is as stunning as it is delicious? Look no further than this Blood Orange Upside-Down Cake with Rosemary! This cake is the perfect blend of citrusy tang, rich caramelized flavors, and an aromatic herbal touch that makes it truly unique. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply treating yourself, this upside-down cake will leave everyone wanting more.
This easy-to-make cake features a buttery base with a vibrant blood orange topping that not only looks beautiful but also brings a burst of sweet and tart flavors. The addition of rosemary gives the cake a subtle earthiness that perfectly balances the citrus. If you’re ready to bake something extraordinary, let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Visually stunning: The caramelized blood oranges create an impressive presentation.
- Unique flavor combination: The tangy citrus paired with fragrant rosemary is a match made in heaven.
- Easy to make: No need for fancy baking techniques—just mix, pour, and bake!
- Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s a holiday gathering, brunch, or afternoon treat, this cake is always a hit.
Ingredients
For the Topping:
- 2-3 blood oranges, thinly sliced
- 1/2 cup (100g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional, but recommended)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) buttermilk
- 1 tablespoon fresh blood orange zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh blood orange juice
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped fresh rosemary
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Blood Orange Topping
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, honey (or maple syrup), and rosemary, cooking until the mixture is smooth and bubbly.
- Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
- Arrange the blood orange slices in a single layer over the caramel, slightly overlapping them to ensure full coverage.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Stir in the vanilla extract, almond extract (if using), blood orange zest, and blood orange juice.
- Gradually mix in the dry ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Stir in the finely chopped rosemary.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake
- Gently pour the batter over the arranged blood oranges in the cake pan. Smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Peel off the parchment paper if necessary.
- Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Dust with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
- Drizzle with a honey glaze to enhance the sweetness.
- Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
- Pair with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a delightful treat.
Tips for Success
1. Use Thin Orange Slices
For the best presentation and texture, slice your blood oranges as thinly as possible. Thick slices may become bitter.
2. Room Temperature Ingredients
Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature for a smooth batter.
3. Don’t Overmix the Batter
Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stir just until the ingredients are combined.
4. Invert the Cake While Warm
Flipping the cake too late can cause the caramelized topping to stick to the pan. Let it rest for only 10 minutes before inverting.
Variations
1. Citrus Twist:
Try using navel oranges, grapefruits, or a mix of citrus for a different flavor profile.
2. Spice it Up:
Add a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm spice kick.
3. Gluten-Free Option:
Substitute gluten-free all-purpose flour for a gluten-free version of this cake.
4. Vegan Alternative:
Replace the butter with vegan butter, the buttermilk with almond milk + 1 teaspoon vinegar, and the eggs with flax eggs.
Why This Cake is Special
Blood oranges are not just beautiful—they are packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and a unique, slightly floral citrus taste. When paired with rosemary, which has a subtle pine-like aroma, the result is a dessert that feels both refreshing and cozy at the same time.
Conclusion
This Blood Orange Upside-Down Cake with Rosemary is a show-stopping dessert that combines zesty citrus, sweet caramelization, and fragrant rosemary into one delicious bite. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, this cake is easy to make and guaranteed to impress.
Try it out and let us know how it turns out! Happy baking!