This Nectarine Upside-Down Cake is a delightful twist on the classic pineapple version. The caramelized nectarines on top of a soft, buttery cake create a beautiful and delicious dessert. Perfect for showcasing ripe summer nectarines, this cake is easy to make and sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients:
For the topping:
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 3-4 ripe nectarines, thinly sliced
For the cake:
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ cup whole milk (or buttermilk)
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan or springform pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
- Prepare the topping:
- Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the prepared cake pan and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter. Arrange the nectarine slices in a circular pattern on top of the sugar-butter mixture, overlapping them slightly. Set aside.
- Make the cake batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Assemble the cake:
- Carefully spoon the cake batter over the arranged nectarines, spreading it evenly to cover the fruit.
- Bake the cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the cake is golden brown.
- Cool and flip:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen, then carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. Gently tap the bottom of the pan to release the cake. Peel off the parchment paper, revealing the beautifully caramelized nectarines.
- Serve:
- Let the cake cool slightly before serving. This Nectarine Upside-Down Cake can be enjoyed warm or at room temperature, and pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.
Enjoy this delicious and visually stunning Nectarine Upside-Down Cake as a summer treat or a beautiful dessert for any occasion!
