This Upside-Down Apricot Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the fruity sweetness of apricots with the rich flavor of olive oil and vanilla. The cake features a layer of caramelized apricots on top, created by pouring a golden caramel into the bottom of the pan before adding the batter. As the cake bakes, the caramel melds with the apricots, creating a beautiful and delicious topping. The olive oil in the batter adds a subtle richness and keeps the cake moist, while the vanilla enhances the overall flavor.
Why You'll Love This: You will love this cake for its unique combination of flavors and its visually stunning presentation. The caramelized apricots add a sweet and slightly tangy topping that perfectly complements the moist and tender cake. The olive oil gives the cake a wonderful texture and depth of flavor, making it a standout dessert that's both sophisticated and comforting. It's a versatile cake that can be enjoyed as a dessert or a sweet treat with afternoon tea.
Perfect Occasion: This Upside-Down Apricot Cake is perfect for family gatherings, dinner parties, and special occasions like birthdays or holidays. Its beautiful presentation and delicious flavor make it an ideal centerpiece for any dessert table. It’s also a wonderful treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee or tea, making any moment feel special.
Decoration Tips: For an elegant finish, serve the cake with a dusting of powdered sugar. You can also garnish it with fresh apricot slices or a sprig of mint for a pop of color. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side will elevate this dessert to new heights.
Ingredients:
- For the Cake:
- 3 eggs
- 150g sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla powder
- 250g all-purpose flour
- 1/2 packet baking powder
- 100ml olive oil
- Fresh apricots, cut into small pieces
- For the Dry Caramel:
- 150g sugar
Instructions:
- Prepare the Cake Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sugar, and vanilla powder. Beat until well combined.
- Sift in the flour and baking powder, and mix until the dry ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Gently fold in small pieces of apricot.
- Add the olive oil and mix until smooth and well blended.
- Prepare the Caramel:
- In a saucepan, melt 150g of sugar over low heat without stirring until it turns a golden brown color.
- Carefully pour the hot caramel into a 20cm round cake pan lined with parchment paper, ensuring an even coating.
- Assemble and Bake:
- Place halved apricots cut-side down over the caramel layer in the pan.
- Pour the cake batter over the apricots, spreading it evenly.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for approximately 40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and Serve:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate to reveal the caramelized apricot topping.
- Let it cool completely before slicing.
Enjoy this Upside-Down Apricot Cake, a perfect blend of fruity sweetness and rich olive oil, with a stunning caramelized apricot topping!