There’s something enchanting about the aroma of fresh strawberries mingling with warm sugar and vanilla, awakening cherished memories of summer gatherings. As I sliced into the juicy red gems for my Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia, transported back to sunlit afternoons filled with laughter and sweet treats. This simple yet stunning dessert captures the essence of sunny days and effortless hospitality, making it the perfect centerpiece for any summer occasion.
What I love most about this cake is how it transforms ordinary moments into something extraordinary. The fluffy, moist cake cradles caramelized strawberries that sing with sweetness, while the vibrant hues create a visual feast for the eyes. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe will undoubtedly impress friends and family alike, all while requiring minimal effort. So, let’s dive in and create a delicious masterpiece that’s sure to become a staple in your summer dessert repertoire!
Why is Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake a must-try?
Simplicity at its finest: You don’t need advanced baking skills to whip up this showstopper.
Rich, sweet flavors: The caramelized strawberries paired with fluffy cake create a delightful burst of flavor.
Perfect for gatherings: Impress your guests with a stunning dessert that’s sure to spark conversation.
Versatile options: Easily swap strawberries for other fruits like peaches or apples for unique twists!
Quick to make: This recipe can be ready in under an hour, making it an ideal last-minute treat.
Elevate your dessert game and check out our serving suggestions for this deliciously delightful cake!
Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake Ingredients
For the Cake
- Strawberries – Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and vibrant color.
- Brown Sugar – This adds a rich sweetness and caramelizes beautifully during baking.
- Cornstarch – Helps thicken the strawberry juices, preventing a soggy cake.
- All-Purpose Flour – Acts as the structural base; gluten-free flour is a great substitute for those avoiding gluten.
- Baking Powder – Essential for helping the cake rise and achieving that fluffy texture.
- Salt – Enhances the flavors and balances out the sweetness.
- Granulated Sugar – Contributes to the cake’s sweetness and perfect texture.
- Large Eggs – Provide structure and moisture to the cake.
- Sour Cream – Adds moisture and a slight tang, enhancing the overall texture.
- Unsalted Butter – Provides rich flavor; ensure it’s cooled before mixing to avoid cooking the eggs.
- Pure Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile of this delicious cake.
For Serving
- Vanilla Ice Cream – This delightful pairing adds creaminess and complements the warmth of the cake perfectly.
Dive into your baking adventure with this simple Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake recipe and enjoy the sweet rewards!
How to Make Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 10-inch skillet. This step ensures even baking and prevents the cake from sticking.
Arrange sliced strawberries in a single layer at the bottom of the skillet. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cornstarch, coating the strawberries to enhance their sweetness and prevent sogginess while baking.
Mix melted butter (cooled), granulated sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth. This will create a luscious base for your cake batter.
Fold in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt gradually. Mix gently until just combined, avoiding overmixing to keep your cake light and airy.
Pour the batter over the arranged strawberries, using a spatula or wet hands to smooth it evenly. Make sure the batter covers the strawberries completely for a stunning presentation.
Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it to ensure perfect doneness.
Cool the cake in the skillet for about 10 minutes before flipping it onto a serving plate. This helps prevent breaking and allows the strawberries to settle beautifully on top.
Optional: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast to the warm cake.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for the Best Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake
- Fresh Ingredients: Use ripe strawberries for maximum flavor; frozen strawberries can become mushy during baking.
- Cool Butter: Allow melted butter to cool before mixing in the eggs to prevent accidentally scrambling them.
- Don’t Rush Flipping: Let the cake cool for at least 10 minutes in the skillet to minimize breakage when flipping onto a plate.
- Bake Time Check: Keep an eye on the baking time; all ovens vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap strawberries for other fruits, like peaches or blueberries, for a unique twist on your Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake.
How to Store and Freeze Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake
Room Temperature: Store the cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days. Enjoy it fresh for the best texture and flavor.
Fridge: If you need to keep the cake longer, refrigerate it for 4-5 days, wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture.
Freezer: Freeze individual slices in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before enjoying again.
Reheating: To warm up leftover cake, simply pop it in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate your Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake experience!
Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake and enhance its flavors to suit your taste!
- Berry Medley: Swap out strawberries for a mix of raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a vibrant, tangy twist. Their tartness pairs beautifully with the cake’s sweetness.
- Tropical Delight: Use fresh pineapple or mango slices instead of strawberries for a sunny, tropical vibe. You can even add shredded coconut to the batter for extra flair!
- Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch that contrasts with the softness of the cake. It adds a rustic feel and an extra layer of flavor.
- Spiced Up: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or a dash of nutmeg to the batter for a warm, aromatic touch that pairs perfectly with the fruity topping.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use plant-based butter and dairy-free yogurt for a delicious vegan version. It’s wonderfully moist!
- Chocolate Lovers: Add a handful of chocolate chips to the batter for a rich chocolate-strawberry combo. Imagine biting into soft cake revealing several melty chocolate surprises!
- Zesty Twist: Incorporate the zest of a lemon or orange into the batter for a refreshing citrus note that brightens up the whole cake experience.
- Heat Lover: Stir in a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected kick that complements the sweetness and fruitiness of the cake. Just a little goes a long way!
What to Serve with Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake?
Enhance your dessert experience with delightful pairings that will make your tastebuds sing.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy, cool contrast to warm cake elevates each bite, creating a delightful blend of textures.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this classic topping adds a dollop of sweetness that complements the strawberry flavors gracefully.
- Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of mint adds a refreshing finish, balancing the cake’s sweetness while adding a burst of vibrant color.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzle warm chocolate for an indulgent twist; the rich flavor paired with strawberries is simply divine.
- Lemon Zest: A hint of zesty brightness heightens the cake’s flavors, enhancing the fresh essence of the strawberries.
- Sparkling Rosé: A glass of bubbly complements the sweetness, making any summer gathering feel extra special.
- Coffee or Tea: A warm beverage pairs beautifully, providing a cozy backdrop for each delicious slice of cake.
- Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing option brings in additional textures and flavors, perfect for balancing the rich cake.
- Pecan Praline Topping: Add crunch and a sweet caramel flavor that pairs wonderfully with the soft, fluffy cake.
- Coconut Whipped Cream: For a tropical twist, this creamy topping invites a delightful contrast to each bite of the cake.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can slice and arrange the strawberries up to 24 hours in advance; just refrigerate them in an airtight container to prevent browning. Additionally, you can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt, and cornstarch) ahead of time and store them in a separate bowl. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet ingredients and fold in the prepped dry mix with the strawberries. This method ensures that your cake is just as delicious when served later, giving you a stunning dessert with minimal last-minute effort!
Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake Recipe FAQs
What kind of strawberries should I use?
Absolutely, for the best flavor, always opt for fresh, ripe strawberries. Look for berries that are bright red, firm, and free from dark spots. Avoid overripe strawberries as they can become mushy during baking.
How should I store the leftover cake?
Store your Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake tightly wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 2 days for the freshest taste. If you prefer it refrigerated, it can last for about 4-5 days. Just make sure to wrap it well to keep it moist!
Can I freeze the skillet cake?
Yes, you can! To freeze, allow the cake to cool completely, then slice it into individual portions. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds if desired.
What if my cake sticks to the skillet when flipping?
Don’t worry, this can happen! To minimize sticking, make sure to grease your skillet thoroughly before adding the strawberries and batter. Additionally, allowing the cake to cool for at least 10 minutes in the skillet will help it release more easily when flipped. If it still sticks, gently use a spatula to loosen the edges before inverting it.
Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of?
Very important! If you have allergies, this recipe includes common allergens like eggs, dairy, and gluten from all-purpose flour. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend. For dairy-free, consider using non-dairy yogurt in place of sour cream and a suitable dairy-free butter alternative.
Can I use frozen strawberries instead?
While fresh strawberries are recommended for the best texture and taste, you can use frozen strawberries in a pinch. Just be aware that frozen fruit might release more moisture, which could cause the cake to be a bit soggier. If using frozen strawberries, thaw and drain them first to minimize excess liquid.
Strawberry Upside Down Skillet Cake
Equipment
- 10-inch skillet
Ingredients
For the Cake
- 2 cups Strawberries fresh, ripe
- 1 cup Brown Sugar for caramelizing
- 2 tablespoons Cornstarch
- 1.5 cups All-Purpose Flour or gluten-free flour
- 2 teaspoons Baking Powder
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 cup Granulated Sugar
- 3 large Large Eggs
- 0.5 cups Sour Cream
- 0.5 cups Unsalted Butter melted and cooled
- 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
For Serving
- 1 scoop Vanilla Ice Cream optional
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 10-inch skillet.
- Arrange sliced strawberries in a single layer at the bottom of the skillet. Sprinkle with brown sugar and cornstarch.
- Mix melted butter, granulated sugar, eggs, sour cream, and vanilla extract in a separate bowl until smooth.
- Fold in the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt gradually.
- Pour the batter over the arranged strawberries.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Cool the cake in the skillet for about 10 minutes before flipping it onto a serving plate.
Serving
- Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if desired.