There’s something truly enchanting about the swirl of luscious blackberries layered beneath a warm, golden cake. Picture this: I was sorting through my pantry when I stumbled upon a pint of fresh blackberries, their sweetness calling out to me. It sparked an idea for an irresistible dessert that would forever change my dessert repertoire: the Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake.
With its charming rustic appeal and elegant flavors, this cake is perfect for impressing guests at a dinner party or enjoying a cozy weeknight treat. The combination of tender almonds and rich almond extract melds beautifully with the tartness of the berries, creating a delightfully balanced bite every time. Best of all, this treat is surprisingly simple to prepare, taking just about 55 minutes from start to finish!
Whether you’re a busy chef looking to elevate your dessert game or someone who simply enjoys the joys of homemade food, this cake is sure to become a new favorite. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and bring the flavor of homemade goodness back into our kitchens!
Why is Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake a Must-Try?
Irresistible flavors come together with the sweet blackberries and almond richness, ensuring every bite is a burst of delight. Simplicity is key, as this recipe requires just basic baking skills and minimal ingredients. Versatile and great for any occasion, it transitions effortlessly from a casual family dinner to a polished gathering. Time-saving preparation complements its flavor, making it perfect for busy schedules. Crowd-pleasing and visually stunning, serve it warm and watch your guests marvel at its beauty. For more delicious ideas, check out my easy baking tips.
Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake Ingredients
Get ready to indulge in this deliciously vibrant dessert!
For the Cake Batter
- ¼ cup butter – use at room temperature for easy creaming.
- 1 cup + 2 tablespoons sugar – this sweetener enhances the cake’s rich flavor.
- 3 eggs – at room temperature, they help create a fluffier texture.
- ½ teaspoon almond extract – adds a delightful nutty flavor, complementing the blackberries.
- 1 ½ cups cake flour – for that tender and soft crumb we crave in cakes.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – ensures a nice rise during baking.
- ¼ teaspoon salt – balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
- ½ cup + 2 tablespoons buttermilk – adds moisture and a subtle tang to the cake.
For the Topping
- ⅔ cup sliced almonds – they add a delightful crunch and nutty richness.
- ¼ cup butter – melted to create a luscious base for the blackberries.
- ⅓ cup light brown sugar – caramelizes beautifully with the butter for a delicious topping.
- 1 pint fresh blackberries – the star of this dessert; their sweetness pairs perfectly with the cake.
Dive into this Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake and bring a slice of homemade goodness to your table!
How to Make Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 10-inch skillet by spraying the sides with nonstick spray that contains flour, or grease and flour it to ensure easy release.
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Cream the butter in a mixing bowl until it’s fluffy and smooth, about 2-3 minutes. Gradually add in the sugar, continuing to beat until well combined and lightened in color.
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Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, along with the almond extract. Your mixture should be smooth and creamy by now, with a delightful aroma emerging from the almond extract.
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Mix in half of the cake flour, baking powder, and salt until combined. Now, stir in half of the buttermilk, creating a thick yet pourable batter.
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Incorporate another ½ cup of the flour, mixing just until blended. Pour in the remaining buttermilk and the last bit of flour, blending only until combined. Gently stir in the sliced almonds using a spatula, ensuring they’re evenly distributed through the batter.
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Pour the melted butter into your prepared skillet, then sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter, creating a tantalizing layer at the bottom.
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Arrange the fresh blackberries on top of the butter and sugar mixture, ensuring they’re spread out nicely. Then, gently pour the batter over the blackberries, smoothing the top with a spatula.
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Bake in your preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Loosen the edges by running a knife or a thin spatula around the perimeter of the skillet. Let the cake cool in the skillet for about 10 to 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Invert the cake by placing a plate on top of the skillet, flipping it swiftly, and letting it rest for a minute before lifting the skillet off. Replace any berries that may have stuck to the pan, and let the cake cool completely before slicing.
Optional: Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra treat!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake?
Indulging in a slice of this delightful cake creates the perfect moment for crafting a vibrant meal experience.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy texture and vanilla flavor complement the tartness of the blackberries wonderfully, creating a sweet and satisfying contrast. A scoop on the side takes this dessert to the next level!
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Whipped Cream: Light and airy, whipped cream adds a fluffy delight that enhances the cake’s rich flavors. Each dollop serves as the perfect touch of sweetness, inviting guests to dig in!
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Fresh Mint Leaves: A sprinkle of mint adds a refreshing pop of color and contrast. The herbal note elevates the berry flavor, offering a delightful balance to the overall sweetness.
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Coffee or Espresso: A warm cup of coffee beautifully complements the sweet, rich flavors of the cake. The slight bitterness of the coffee enhances the sweetness, making for an elegant pairing.
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Berry Compote: Drizzling a homemade berry compote over each slice intensifies the berry experience. The added texture and flavor elevate the overall dessert, making every bite brim with freshness.
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Lemonade or Iced Tea: Light and refreshing, these beverages provide a cooling contrast to the sweetness of the cake. Sipping on a glass adds a delightful touch to your dessert experience.
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Chopped Nuts: Toasted pecans or walnuts sprinkled on top add a beautiful crunch, contrasting with the soft cake while enhancing the almond flavor. This textural element helps to create a multi-layered taste experience.
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Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses, like Brie or goat cheese, can provide a savory balance to the sweetness of the cake. The creamy cheese enhances the fruitiness of the blackberries, creating a sophisticated dining experience.
Helpful Tricks for Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your butter, eggs, and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother, more cohesive batter for your Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake.
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Gentle Mixing: When adding flour, mix gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake, so be kind to your batter!
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Careful Inversion: When flipping the cake, be swift but careful — a sturdy plate will help prevent any mishaps. Take your time to reposition any blackberries if they cling to the skillet.
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Fresh Berries: Use fresh blackberries for the best flavor and texture. If they’re too soft or overripe, they may turn mushy during baking.
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Bake Time Awareness: Keep an eye on your cake as it bakes; ovens can vary. A toothpick test helps determine doneness, ensuring your cake stays fluffy and moist.
How to Store and Freeze Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake
Room Temperature: Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days to maintain its moist texture and fresh taste.
Fridge: For longer storage, wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Just be sure to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Freezer: You can freeze the cake for up to 2 months. Slice and wrap each piece in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy it warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10 minutes. Your Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake will taste just as delightful!
Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake Variations
Feel free to play around with this recipe, making it uniquely yours with some delightful twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute cake flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a cake everyone can enjoy. Just make sure to check that the blend contains xanthan gum for good structure.
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Dairy-Free: Switch buttermilk with almond or soy milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar for a vegan-friendly alternative. Your cake will still be moist and scrumptious!
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Nut-Free: Omit the sliced almonds and replace them with sunflower seeds to add a bit of crunch without any nut allergies interference. This change still keeps the texture appealing!
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Berry Medley: Swap blackberries for mixed berries like raspberries or blueberries for a refreshing twist. Each bite will boast a different burst of flavor!
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Chocolate Bliss: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter before pouring it over the berries for an indulgent chocolate-y upgrade. The chocolate adds depth to every delicious slice!
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Zesty Lemon: Incorporate the zest of one lemon into the batter for a zesty flavor boost. The brightness will elevate this cake to a whole new level of delight.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of cinnamon to the batter if you’re looking for a spicy surprise that compliments the sweetness of the blackberries beautifully.
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Caramel Heaven: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving or even between the berry and cake layers for an extra decadent touch. Your guests will be swooning!
Make Ahead Options
These Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cakes are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and store it covered in the refrigerator. The blackberries can also be arranged in the skillet ahead of time—this way, they’ll soak in all the lovely flavors overnight. To maintain quality, be sure to cover the skillet tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. When you’re ready to bake, just pour the batter over the berries and bake as directed. You’ll have a stunning, homey dessert with minimal effort, saving you precious time on busy days!
Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake Recipe FAQs
How do I select ripe blackberries for the cake?
Absolutely! When choosing blackberries, look for ones that are plump, firm, and shiny. They should have a deep black color with no signs of redness. Avoid any berries that show dark spots or mold, as these can indicate overripeness.
What’s the best way to store leftover Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake?
The more the merrier when it comes to storage! You can keep your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. If you want it to last longer, wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 5 days. Just remember to let it come to room temperature before serving for the best taste.
Can I freeze the Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the cooled cake and wrap each piece individually in plastic wrap. Then, place them in a freezer bag. This method helps preserve flavor and prevents freezer burn. You can freeze it for up to 2 months, and when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave a slice for 15-20 seconds!
What should I do if my cake is sticking to the skillet?
Don’t worry! If you find that your cake is stuck, it could be that the skillet wasn’t greased adequately or the cake needs a little more time to cool. For next time, make sure you spray the skillet with nonstick spray or flour it well. If it’s stuck, gently run a thin spatula around the edges to loosen it before attempting to invert.
Is this cake safe for pets or people with nut allergies?
Great question! This Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake contains almonds, which can be an allergen for some people. If you’re serving guests with nut allergies, you might want to omit the almonds for a safer experience. As for pets, it’s best to avoid sharing any cake, as ingredients like sugar and butter can upset their stomachs.
What’s the best way to reheat the cake?
To enjoy your Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake warm again, you can either use the microwave for about 15-20 seconds per slice or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes. This will help restore its moist texture and make it wonderfully cozy to eat!
Irresistible Blackberry Upside-Down Skillet Cake Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 10-inch skillet by greasing it.
- Cream the butter in a mixing bowl until fluffy. Gradually add sugar, beating until combined.
- Add the eggs one at a time and mix in the almond extract until the mixture is creamy.
- Mix in half of the cake flour, baking powder, and salt, then half of the buttermilk to create a batter.
- Incorporate another 1/2 cup of flour and the rest of the buttermilk and flour, blending gently.
- Pour melted butter into the skillet and sprinkle brown sugar evenly over it.
- Arrange the blackberries on top of the butter and sugar mixture.
- Pour the batter over the blackberries and smooth the top.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Loosen the edges with a knife after cooling for 10-15 minutes, then invert onto a plate.
- Serve warm or cool completely before slicing.
