Cherry Nut Upside-Down Cake(Yields 100 Servings)
Cherry Nut Upside-Down Cake offers a delightful combination of tart cherries, crunchy walnuts, and rich cake batter, baked to golden perfection. Ideal for gatherings and special occasions, its impressive presentation and layered flavors make it a standout dessert for both casual and formal settings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain the cherries.
- Blend the dry ingredients for 5 minutes in a mixer on low speed.
- Add eggs, vanilla, and half of the water to the dry ingredients. Blend for 30 seconds on low speed.
- Beat the mixture for 5 minutes on high speed.
- Add the remaining water and blend for 30 seconds on low speed; then beat for 2 minutes on medium speed.
- Place melted butter on the baking pans.
- Cover the butter with brown sugar.
- Sprinkle walnuts over the sugar and butter mixture.
- Layer the drained cherries on top of the walnuts.
- Pour 7 pounds 2 ounces of cake batter over the ingredients in each pan.
- Bake at 350°F for approximately 30 minutes.
- Cut the cake into 12 x 20 x 2-inch portions.
- Invert each portion as you serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter cake, consider using a combination of all-purpose flour and whole wheat flour. You can substitute half of the shortening with unsweetened applesauce for a healthier option. If you want more flavor, add a teaspoon of almond extract along with the vanilla. Remember to check the cake's doneness by inserting a toothpick in the center; it should come out clean.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is best served warm, and pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For an elegant touch, drizzle with a caramel sauce. It makes an excellent dessert for gatherings or special occasions, and can be complemented with a side of fresh fruit or a light salad for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes for best results.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cherry Nut Upside-Down Cake(Yields 100 Servings) contains roughly 4307 calories, with 85g protein, 659g carbohydrates, and 148g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (181% of the Daily Value), protein (171% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (96% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2945mg per serving (128% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh cherries instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh cherries instead of frozen. Just make sure to pit and slice them before adding to the cake. Fresh cherries will provide a slightly different texture and flavor, making the cake even more delightful. Adjust the baking time slightly if needed, as fresh cherries can add moisture.
How can I make this cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Ensure that all other ingredients, including the baking powder and other additives, are also gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still be delicious and enjoyable for those avoiding gluten.
What can I use instead of walnuts?
If you're allergic to walnuts or prefer a different nut, you can substitute with pecans or almonds. Alternatively, you could omit nuts entirely for a nut-free version. If you want added crunch, consider using toasted coconut flakes or sunflower seeds to give the cake a unique texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).