Dessert

Upside-Down Orange Glow Cake Recipe

ByHarper Ellington January 24, 2026January 24, 2026

Introduction

This Upside-Down Orange Glow Cake is a delightful treat that combines the bright citrus flavor of fresh oranges with a tender, moist cake. The caramelized orange slices on top create a stunning and delicious presentation that’s perfect for any occasion.

A round cake topped with thin, bright orange citrus slices arranged closely to cover the entire surface. The cake crust is golden brown with a slightly rough texture, visible underneath the evenly placed orange slices. The dried citrus slices show translucent sections with visible segments and a slightly glossy finish. The cake sits on a white surface with a white marbled texture background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 large oranges, thinly sliced
1/3 cup sugar
2 tbsp butter
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup butter, softened
2 large eggs
1/2 cup orange juice
Zest of 1 orange
1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a round cake pan thoroughly to prevent sticking and set aside.
Step 2: Melt together 2 tablespoons butter and 1/3 cup sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat until combined and slightly caramelized. Pour this mixture evenly into the bottom of the prepared cake pan.
Step 3: Arrange the thinly sliced orange pieces in a neat, even layer over the caramel mixture at the bottom of the pan. This will create the beautiful upside-down topping once baked.
Step 4: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt to combine evenly.
Step 5: In a separate larger bowl, cream 1/2 cup softened butter with 1/2 cup sugar until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color.
Step 6: Beat in the eggs one at a time into the creamed butter and sugar. Then mix in the orange juice, orange zest, and vanilla extract until smooth and well incorporated.
Step 7: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix gently and just until combined to keep the batter light and tender.
Step 8: Carefully pour the batter over the arranged orange slices in the pan, smoothing the top evenly with a spatula.
Step 9: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean, indicating it is fully baked.
Step 10: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate so the caramelized orange slices are on top. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Tips & Variations

Use blood oranges or mandarins for a colorful twist and slightly different flavor.
For extra moisture, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
If you prefer a less sweet topping, reduce the sugar in the caramel layer to 1/4 cup.
Make sure to slice the oranges thinly and evenly to ensure they caramelize properly without burning.

Storage

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat individual slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back the soft texture and warm caramel flavors.