Introduction
Experience a burst of citrusy delight as you indulge in the irresistible Blood Orange Polenta Upside Down Cake, topped with a dollop of Whipped Crème Fraîche. This recipe promises not only an explosion of vibrant flavors but also simplicity and elegance in baking.
Tips for this Recipe
Ensure your ingredients, especially the blood oranges, are fresh to maximize their tangy zest. Gently separate egg whites from yolks without getting any traces of yolk in them; even a small amount can hinder the rise of your cake.
Why you will love this recipe
This Blood Orange Polenta Upside Down Cake offers a unique twist on classic desserts, combining unexpected flavors and textures. The bold citrus notes complement the nutty polenta base, while the creamy crème fraîche adds a rich contrast. It’s a delightful treat for those seeking something different yet undeniably scrumptious.
Ingredients
7 tablespoons sugar, divided, plus 3/4 cup sugar
3 tablespoons water
8 tablespoons (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature, divided
3 unpeeled small to medium blood oranges
3/4 cup plus 3 tablespoons unbleached all purpose flour
3 tablespoons polenta or coarse yellow cornmeal (preferably stone-ground)
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
3/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs, separated
6 tablespoons whole milk
1 cup chilled crème fraîche*
2 tablespoons sugar
Advised Equipments
Bloom & Bond Cuisine Braid/Perforated Baking Mat – Perfect for baking upside-down cakes.
Napkins by Anova – Silicone Oven Mitts – Essential for handling hot pans safely and effectively.
KitchenAid 7-cup Artisan Stand Mixer – Ideal for mixing batter and creams to perfection.
Susan Jane Cookware – Reduced Ovenproof Cake Pan – Equipped with a spout for easy cake removal, ideal for this recipe’s upside-down approach.
OXO Good Grips 18/2″ Chef’s Knife – A must-have for precise cuts and slices when preparing ingredients.
Cuisinart Batter Bowl with Pouring Spout – Easy to clean, handy for mixing your cake batter smoothly.
Miracle-Gro Multi-purpose Cutting Board – A sturdy surface perfect for chopping and dicing.
KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer Bowl Set (Silicone) – Versatile and easy to clean, handy for mixing various components of the cake.
OXO Large Cutting Board with Spinner – Efficient in preparation tasks, aiding in ingredient organization during prep work.
Food Processor – Hamilton Beach 5-Cup Model – Useful for finely chopping any added fruits or nuts to enhance your cake’s flavors and textures.
History of the Recipe
The fusion between traditional polenta and a citrus-infused upside-down cake brings together Italian comfort food and French dessert artistry. This innovative twist on classic recipes pays homage to the versatility of blood oranges, which have been celebrated for their robust flavor since ancient Rome. By layering these ingredients in an unconventional yet delectable way, this dish becomes a testament to culinary creativity and modern gastronomy’s evolution.
Fun Facts About This Recipe
Did you know that blood oranges get their unique color from carotenoid pigments? These antioxidants are not only responsible for the fruit’s striking appearance but also contribute to its health benefits. Additionally, the practice of baking upside-down cakes dates back centuries and has evolved through various cultures, reflecting an everlasting pursuit for culinary ingenuity. With this recipe, you embrace a piece of history with every slice—enjoying the vibrant colors, intriguing textures, and rich flavors that make Blood Orange Polenta Upside Down Cake truly unforgettable.
