Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)

Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake) is a delightful dessert that perfectly captures the flavors of summer. This cake is not only simple to prepare but also visually stunning, making it ideal for gatherings, picnics, or family dinners. With its sweet blackberries and crunchy almond topping, this cake will impress your guests and satisfy your sweet tooth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious dessert ready in under an hour.
• Fresh Ingredients: Made with fresh blackberries and almonds, this cake bursts with flavor and nutrition.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it warm or at room temperature; it’s perfect for any occasion from brunch to dessert.
• Beautiful Presentation: The upside-down style showcases the vibrant berries on top, making it a standout centerpiece.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this sweet treat, making it a hit for all ages.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth baking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 10-inch skillet
• Mixing bowls
• Electric mixer or whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Rubber spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• 10-inch skillet: This helps achieve an even bake while allowing for beautiful presentation when flipped.
• Electric mixer or whisk: Ensures that ingredients are blended smoothly for a fluffy cake texture.
• Rubber spatula: Perfect for scraping down the sides of bowls to incorporate every bit of batter.

Ingredients

For this scrumptious Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake), you’ll need:

For the Cake Batter

• 1/4 cup butter (at room temperature)
• 1 cup + 2 tablespoons sugar
• 3 eggs (at room temperature)
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1 1/2 cups cake flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons buttermilk

For the Topping

• 2/3 cup sliced almonds
• 1/4 cup butter (melted)
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar
• 1 pint fresh blackberries

How to Make Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Spray the sides of your 10-inch skillet with nonstick spray that contains flour, or grease and flour it well.

Step 2: Prepare the Batter

• Beat the butter in a mixing bowl until creamy.
• Add in the sugar, beating until fluffy.
• Incorporate the eggs and almond extract, mixing until combined.

Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients

Gradually blend in:
1. Half of the cake flour, along with the baking powder and salt.
2. Stir in half of the buttermilk.
3. Mix in another half cup of flour followed by the remaining buttermilk.
4. Finally, blend in any remaining flour until just combined.
5. Stir in the sliced almonds by hand.

Step 4: Assemble Your Cake

Pour the melted butter into the skillet. Stir in the light brown sugar, coating the bottom evenly. Arrange the fresh blackberries over this mixture. Pour your batter over the blackberries, smoothing out the top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake your Blackberry Cake for about 40 to 45 minutes or until it’s golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once out of the oven, run a knife or thin spatula around the edges to loosen it from the skillet. Let it cool in the skillet for about 10 to 15 minutes before flipping it onto a plate. Replace any blackberries that may stick to the pan. Allow it to cool completely before slicing and serving.

Enjoy your delicious Blackberry Cake, perfect for any gathering!

How to Serve Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)

Blackberry Cake is a delightful dessert that pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. Whether you prefer it warm or cold, there are many ways to enhance the experience of this delicious upside-down skillet cake.

With Whipped Cream

• Light and airy whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the fruity flavors of the cake.

À la Mode

• Serve warm slices topped with vanilla ice cream for a decadent treat that balances sweetness with creaminess.

Fresh Berries

• Garnish each slice with extra fresh blackberries to amplify the berry flavor and add a pop of color to your plate.

Dusting of Powdered Sugar

• A light sprinkle of powdered sugar on top gives the cake an elegant finish, making it perfect for special occasions or gatherings.

Lemon Zest

• Adding a touch of lemon zest as a garnish brings out the freshness of the blackberries and adds a hint of citrus brightness.

Tea or Coffee Pairing

• Enjoy slices of Blackberry Cake with a cup of herbal tea or coffee for a cozy afternoon treat that enhances both flavors.

How to Perfect Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)

Perfecting your Blackberry Cake can elevate it from good to great. Here are some tips to ensure success:

• Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Ingredients like butter and eggs mix better when at room temperature, resulting in a smoother batter.

• Don’t Overmix the Batter: Gently fold in the flour and almonds to avoid toughening your cake. Mix until just combined for optimal fluffiness.

• Check Oven Temperature: Always check your oven’s actual temperature with an oven thermometer; baking at the wrong temperature can affect cooking time and texture.

• Cool Properly: Allowing the cake to cool in the skillet helps it set properly and makes inverting easier without breaking.

• Adjust Baking Time: Ovens can vary; keep an eye on the cake during baking, and use a toothpick test to check for doneness.

• Store Correctly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days, or refrigerate them for longer freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)

Pairing side dishes with your Blackberry Cake can create a well-rounded dessert experience. Here are some delightful options:

1. Vanilla Ice Cream
   A classic pairing that offers creamy contrast to the fruity cake.

2. Fruit Salad
   A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits can enhance the berry flavors while adding brightness.

3. Yogurt Parfait
   Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a tangy side that complements the sweetness of the cake.

4. Scone Bites
   These buttery treats provide texture and richness, making them an enjoyable addition alongside your dessert.

5. Pecan Tarts
   The nutty flavor pairs nicely with blackberries while providing crunch and sweetness.

6. Chia Seed Pudding
   This healthy option offers creaminess and can be flavored with vanilla or almond extract to match your cake’s profile.

7. Chocolate Sauce
   Drizzle chocolate sauce over slices for those who love extra indulgence alongside their fruit dessert.

8. Mint Salad
   A light salad composed of fresh mint leaves adds an aromatic touch that brightens up every bite.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Blackberry Cake, avoid these common pitfalls to ensure a perfect dessert.

• Boldly skip the butter temperature: Using cold butter can lead to a dense cake. Always use room temperature butter for a fluffy texture.
• Boldly ignore the baking time: Overbaking can dry out your cake. Keep an eye on it and use a toothpick to check for doneness around the 40-minute mark.
• Boldly overlook ingredient measurements: Inaccurate measuring can ruin your batter consistency. Use precise measuring cups and spoons for best results.
• Boldly forget to cool before inverting: Inverting too soon can cause the cake to break apart. Allow it to cool in the skillet for at least 10 minutes.
• Boldly skimp on almond extract: Omitting or underusing almond extract decreases flavor depth. Use the full amount recommended for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)

• Freeze slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months.
• Consider portioning before freezing for easy access.

Reheating Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place the slice on a baking sheet, cover with foil, and heat for about 10 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on medium power for about 20-30 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Place in a non-stick pan over low heat, covering with a lid until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Blackberry Cake.

Can I use other fruits instead of blackberries?

Yes! You can substitute other berries like blueberries or raspberries for a different flavor profile.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, replace cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend.

What is the best way to serve Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)?

Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

How long does it take to prepare Blackberry Cake?

The total prep time is about 10 minutes, followed by 45 minutes of baking time.

Final Thoughts

This Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake) is not only delicious but also versatile. Enjoy it as a delightful dessert or treat at gatherings. Feel free to customize with different fruits or toppings based on your preference!