Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake) is a delightful dessert that captures the essence of summer with its juicy blackberries and crunchy almonds. This cake is perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply as a sweet treat to enjoy at home. Its easy preparation and striking presentation make it an impressive dish to serve to friends and family. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting, this recipe will guide you through creating a stunning Blackberry Cake that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Ingredients: Made with basic pantry staples, this cake is incredibly easy to whip up.
- Impressive Presentation: The upside-down style highlights the beautiful blackberries, making it visually stunning.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of fresh blackberries and almond extract creates a unique taste that’s both sweet and nutty.
- Versatile Treat: Perfect for dessert or as a special breakfast item, this cake shines in any setting.
- Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this delightful cake baking in no time.
Tools and Preparation
To create the perfect Blackberry Cake, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having these on hand will make your baking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 10-inch skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
Importance of Each Tool
- 10-inch skillet: Ideal for even baking, allowing the cake to rise beautifully while keeping the bottom caramelized.
- Electric mixer: Makes creaming butter and sugar effortless, ensuring a light and fluffy batter.
Ingredients
Blackberry Cake is studded with almonds and bursting with fresh blackberries in a simple, homemade batter. It’s easy to make, impressive to serve, and tastes like summer!
For the Cake
- 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
- 2/3 cup sliced almonds
For the Topping
- 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 a 10-inch skillet with nonstick spray that contains flour or grease it with butter and flour.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a mixing bowl, beat the butter until creamy. Add the sugar, continuing to beat until fluffy. Then add the eggs one at a time along with the almond extract, beating well after each addition.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
Gradually blend in half of the cake flour, followed by the baking powder, and salt. Stir in half of the buttermilk. Mix in another half cup of flour along with the remaining buttermilk. Finally, blend in the remaining flour until just combined. Gently fold in the sliced almonds by hand.
Step 4: Prepare Skillet
Pour the melted butter into the skillet. Stir in the brown sugar, coating the bottom evenly. Arrange the fresh blackberries over this mixture before pouring your cake batter on top, smoothing it out carefully.
Step 5: Bake
Bake your Blackberry Cake for about 40 to 45 minutes or until golden brown. A toothpick inserted should come out clean when done.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, run a knife around the edges of the skillet to loosen your cake gently. Allow it to cool for about 10-15 minutes in the skillet. Then invert onto a plate after running your knife around once more to ensure it releases cleanly. Replace any berries that may stick before slicing into this delicious treat! Enjoy!
How to Serve Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)
Blackberry Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply indulging at home, these serving suggestions will elevate your cake experience.
With Whipped Cream
- Light and airy, whipped cream adds a creamy texture that complements the tartness of blackberries.
Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream
- The rich flavor of vanilla ice cream brings a wonderful contrast to the warm cake, making each bite indulgent.
Serve with Fresh Berries
- Garnishing with additional fresh blackberries enhances the fruity flavor and makes for an attractive presentation.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- A sweet caramel drizzle adds richness and a hint of warmth that pairs beautifully with the blackberry flavors.
Accompany with a Cup of Coffee
- Enjoying this cake with coffee creates a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness, making it an ideal afternoon treat.
Top with Almonds
- Sprinkling extra sliced almonds adds a crunchy texture and nutty flavor that pairs well with the moist cake.
How to Perfect Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)
To ensure your Blackberry Cake turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind.
- Use room temperature ingredients: This helps create a smoother batter and ensures even mixing.
- Don’t overmix: Gently fold in the flour and almonds to avoid a dense cake.
- Check for doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center; it should come out clean when the cake is ready.
- Let it cool properly: Allowing the cake to cool in the skillet helps maintain its shape when inverted.
- Store correctly: Keep any leftovers covered at room temperature for up to 2 days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
Best Side Dishes for Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)
Pairing side dishes with your Blackberry Cake can enhance your dessert experience. Here are some great options to consider:
- Greek Yogurt
A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a slight tang that balances the sweetness of the cake. - Fruit Salad
A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits complements the flavors of blackberry, adding brightness to your meal. - Cheese Platter
A selection of cheeses offers savory notes that contrast nicely with the sweet cake, creating a gourmet touch. - Pecan Pie Bars
These bars add another layer of dessert richness while maintaining nutty flavors similar to those in the cake. - Chocolate Mousse
The lightness of chocolate mousse contrasts well with the heavier textures of the cake, creating an elegant pairing. - Lemon Sorbet
This refreshing sorbet serves as a palate cleanser between bites, enhancing your enjoyment of both desserts.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake) can be simple, but some common mistakes can lead to less-than-perfect results. Here are key pitfalls to avoid.
- Using Cold Ingredients: Always use eggs and butter at room temperature. Cold ingredients can result in a dense cake rather than a light and fluffy one.
- Overmixing the Batter: Be careful not to overmix the batter once you add the flour. Mix until just combined to maintain a tender texture in your cake.
- Skipping the Loosening Step: After baking, remember to run a knife around the edges of the skillet. Skipping this step can make it difficult to invert and serve your Blackberry Cake without breaking it.
- Not Measuring Ingredients Correctly: Baking is a science. Use measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, especially with flour and sugar, to ensure your cake rises properly.
- Ignoring Bake Times: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes. Oven temperatures can vary, so check for doneness with a toothpick to avoid overbaking or underbaking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store the cooled Blackberry Cake in an airtight container.
- It will keep well for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F. Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Heat individual slices on high for 15-20 seconds until warm.
- Stovetop: Place slices in a skillet over low heat, covering with a lid for about 5 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen blackberries for this Blackberry Cake?
Yes, you can use frozen blackberries! Just thaw them first and drain excess moisture before adding them to the cake.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
You can use milk mixed with vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute. For each cup of buttermilk needed, use one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice added.
How do I prevent my cake from sticking to the skillet?
Make sure you thoroughly grease and flour your skillet before pouring in the batter. This will help prevent sticking when you invert the cake.
How long does it take for Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake) to cool before serving?
Let it cool in the skillet for 10-15 minutes before inverting onto a plate. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.
Final Thoughts
This Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake) is not only delicious but also versatile! You can customize it by adding different fruits or nuts according to your preference. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or simply enjoying at home. Give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends with this delightful dessert!
Blackberry Cake (EASY Upside-Down Skillet Cake)
Blackberry Cake, an Easy Upside-Down Skillet Cake, is a summer delight that brings together juicy blackberries and crunchy almonds in a visually stunning dessert. Perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or a sweet home treat, this cake is incredibly simple to prepare, making it suitable for bakers of all skill levels. With just 10 minutes of prep time and basic pantry staples, you can create a show-stopping dish that will impress family and friends alike. The unique combination of fresh blackberries and almond extract creates a flavor profile that is both sweet and nutty. Serve it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an indulgent experience.
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 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
- 2/3 cup sliced almonds
- 1/4 cup melted butter (for the topping)
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar (for the topping)
- 1 pint fresh blackberries (for the topping)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F and grease a 10-inch skillet.
- In a mixing bowl, cream the butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time along with almond extract.
- Gradually mix in half of the cake flour with baking powder and salt, then half of the buttermilk. Repeat with remaining flour and buttermilk until just combined. Fold in sliced almonds.
- Pour melted butter into the skillet, stir in brown sugar, then layer fresh blackberries, followed by the cake batter.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for 10-15 minutes before inverting onto a plate to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (75g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 22g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 39g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: Ensure ingredients are at room temperature for best results. Avoid overmixing to keep the cake light and fluffy. Store leftovers covered at room temperature for up to two days or refrigerate for longer freshness.
