Upside-Down Surprise Cake
A rich and creamy upside-down cake featuring a layer of Ricotta cheese, perfect for special occasions or a delightful dessert with a tender crumb and sweet topping.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix together the Ricotta cheese, eggs, vanilla, and sugar.
- Set aside the mixture.
- Make the yellow cake mix according to the package directions.
- Pour the cake batter into a greased extra large loaf pan.
- Spread the Ricotta cheese mixture on top of the cake batter.
- Bake in the oven at 350°F for 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and sprinkle with powdered sugar.
Tips & Substitutions
For a lighter texture, consider using part-skim Ricotta cheese instead of whole. If you want to add a citrus twist, include some lemon zest to the Ricotta mixture. You can also substitute the yellow cake mix with a gluten-free version for a gluten-free alternative. Be sure to check the cake's doneness with a toothpick before removing it from the oven.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Upside-Down Surprise Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added richness. Fresh berries or a berry compote make excellent accompaniments. This cake pairs beautifully with the 100 Cookie Recipe for a delightful dessert spread.
Storage & Reheating
After cooling, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, place individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or enjoy chilled for a refreshing taste. This cake can also be served cold, making it a great make-ahead dessert.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Upside-Down Surprise Cake contains roughly 676 calories, with 9g protein, 126g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (91% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. It also contributes 10g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, this cake can be made a day in advance. Just ensure it is cooled completely before storing it in the refrigerator. It will actually taste even better after a day as the flavors meld together.
What can I use instead of powdered sugar for decoration?
If you want a different finish, consider using cocoa powder for a chocolatey touch or finely chopped nuts for a crunchy texture. You can also skip the dusting altogether for a more rustic look.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
While Ricotta is traditional, you can experiment with mascarpone for a richer flavor or cottage cheese for a lower-fat option. Keep in mind that the texture and taste may change slightly depending on your choice.
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).