Tuesday, September 14, 2010

TWD: Cranberry Upside Downer



To be honest, I was a bit wary about this week's TWD selection, Cranberry Upside-Downer.


It's not the ingredients that I dislike, it's the type of cake. Upside down cake. The only kind I've ever had is pineapple upside-down cake, and I really detest it. It's too icky sweet and basically spoils the pineapple, as far as I'm concerned. My daughter doesn't like it either, so I really debated about making it.


I checked the freezer and discovered that I had exactly 2 cups of frozen cranberries, so, taking it as a sign, I relented and decided to bake the cake.




Well, all I can say is, I'm really glad I did. This is one super delicious upside down cake. Even my daughter liked it, so I know it's a bona fide hit.

The tartness of the cranberries plays nicely with the sweetness of the topping and the spiciness of the cake. Cinnamon is one of my favorite flavors, so I didn't hold back when making the cake.




I used my 8" x 3" cake pans, so I wasn't concerned about spill-overs. The whole thing unmolded very cleanly on the plate. It's really a beautiful dessert to behold. I also omitted the glaze, and it tasted and looked just fine without it.




Now, I'm eagerly awaiting the arrival of fresh cranberries in the market, because I intend to stock up and bake this at least once during the upcoming holiday season.

Thanks to Sabrina of
Superfluous for a winning choice. Do stop by the Tuesdays with Dorie blog to see some other upside-down variations.



16 comments:

Cindy said...

I agree with everything you wrote. This cake was a fun surprise.

Peggy said...

Looks good! We really loved this recipe. And for fall weather it was perfect. I can't wait to make it again and try a different fruit on top.

Flourchild said...

Im gladyou ended up liking it, it looks really good! I loved it!

Anonymous said...

Isn't it amazing how a new take on an old recipe can make all the difference? Your cake looks lovely!

Paula said...

Sounds like you have a new holiday favorite on your hands. It is very pretty on top without the glaze.

p.s. If you were my neighbor, I would make some tacoes with your shrimp and invite you over. Wouldn't that be fun?

Hindy said...

Your cake looks delicious. I also thought it was fine without the glaze.

GratefulPrayerThankfulHeart said...

Your cake looks delicious but Coco is what caught my eye on your side bar! So handsome! (or beautiful if he is a she) :) Fun stopping by to visit with you!

Pamela said...

Nice! I didn't have time to bake this week for TWD, but I am really looking forward to making this one!

Tia said...

I didn't do the glaze here either - yours looks great and def a keeper. I did a White Peach version.

Jeannette said...

i have never had pineapple upside down cake for the exact reason that you don't like it. too sickly sweet.

your cake looks beautiful!

Nichicakes said...

Beautiful!

Shandy said...

Oh Yum! You used the cranberries and the cake looks beautiful! We loved the moistness and flavor of this recipe too. Really pretty colors and the texture stands out on your cake.

TeaLady said...

Yes thankfully it was nothing like pineapple uspide down cake. And it was delicious. Looks lovely.

natalia said...

ciao Judy ! How lovely your cake looks !!! Yummy !

Nickki said...

Your cake looks so pretty :-) I loved this recipe too and intend to make again over the festive season :-)

Mary said...

Glad you liked it! I think I'll make the cranberry one for Thanksgiving.
:)