Healthier holiday treat: low-sugar cranberry upside down cake recipe revealed

The festive season calls for delectable treats that warm the heart and create lasting memories. Among the myriad of holiday favorites, the cranberry upside down cake stands out as a true culinary masterpiece, combining the tart sweetness of cranberries with the comforting warmth of a fluffy cake. This blog post will guide you through a step-by-step cranberry upside down cake recipe, ensuring you create a dessert that will impress your loved ones and evoke the spirit of the season.

Ingredients:

For the Cake:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
• 1 3/4 cups granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup buttermilk

For the Cranberry Topping:

• 12 ounces fresh or frozen cranberries
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Cake Batter:

• Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×13 inch baking pan.
• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
• In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
• Alternately add the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

2. Create the Cranberry Topping:

• In a medium bowl, combine the cranberries, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter. Toss to coat.
• Spread the cranberry mixture evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking pan.

3. Pour the Cake Batter:

• Pour the cake batter over the cranberry topping, spreading it out evenly.

4. Bake:

• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

5. Flip and Cool:

• Immediately invert the cake onto a wire rack to cool. Let cool for at least 1 hour before serving.

Tips for a Perfect Cranberry Upside Down Cake:

• Use fresh or frozen cranberries for the best flavor and texture.
• If using frozen cranberries, thaw them before using.
• Do not overmix the cake batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
• Allow the cake to cool completely before flipping it to prevent the cranberries from sticking to the pan.
• Serve the cake warm with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent treat.

Variations:

• Citrus Zest: Add 1 tablespoon of grated orange or lemon zest to the cake batter for a burst of citrus flavor.
• Nuts: Sprinkle chopped walnuts or pecans over the cranberry topping before baking for added crunch.
• Spices: Enhance the flavor of the cake by adding 1 teaspoon of ground ginger or cloves to the cake batter.
• Glaze: Drizzle a simple glaze made with 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons milk over the cake after it has cooled for a glossy finish.

The Perfect Holiday Treat

This cranberry upside down cake recipe is a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed on any occasion. Its festive presentation and irresistible flavor make it an ideal treat for holiday gatherings, potlucks, and family dinners. Whether you’re looking for a sweet and tangy addition to your dessert repertoire or a classic holiday staple, this recipe will undoubtedly satisfy your cravings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use frozen cranberries in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use fresh or frozen cranberries. If using frozen cranberries, thaw them before using.

Q: What is the best way to store cranberry upside down cake?
A: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Q: Can I prepare the cranberry upside down cake ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can assemble the cake up to 24 hours before baking. Store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake.

Q: Can I use a different type of fruit in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use other fruits such as apples, pears, or peaches. Adjust the amount of sugar in the topping as needed.

Q: What is the best way to serve cranberry upside down cake?
A: Serve the cake warm with whipped cream or ice cream for a decadent treat.