Upside Down Orange Cake with Cardamom and Olive Oil (8 servings) – Recipe by Carolina Gelen

 If you are a fan of fresh and spiced flavors, you cannot miss this upside down orange cake with cardamom and olive oil recipe, a creation by Carolina Gelen, whose cooking I deeply admire. Carolina has a special talent for reinterpreting classic recipes with a contemporary twist, creating unexpected combinations that stand out for their balance of flavors and textures. Her style is based on quality ingredients, accessible techniques, and a simple yet elegant presentation, making each dish feel approachable and special. With a blend of creativity and respect for seasonal products, Carolina manages to create dishes that are both comforting and surprising, and this recipe is a perfect example of her talent.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of flour

• 2 teaspoons of baking powder

• 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom

• ¾ cup of olive oil

• 1 cup of sugar + 4 tablespoons for caramelizing

• 3 eggs

• ½ cup of orange juice

• Zest of 1 orange

• 2 oranges, thinly sliced

• 2 star anise

• 1 cinnamon stick

Preparation:

1. Caramelize the oranges

In a medium skillet, add the 4 tablespoons of sugar and let it melt until it takes on a golden color.

Add the star anise and cinnamon stick, then add the orange slices. Cook for a few minutes until the oranges soften and absorb the caramel.

Place the caramelized slices in the bottom of a 23 cm (9-inch) round cake pan. Set aside.

2. Prepare the batter

In a large bowl, sift the flour, baking powder, and cardamom.

In another bowl, beat the olive oil with the sugar until well combined.

Add the eggs one at a time, beating after each addition.

Incorporate the orange juice and zest.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until you have a smooth batter.

3. Bake

Pour the batter into the pan over the caramelized oranges.

Bake in a preheated oven at 175°C (350°F) for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

4. Unmold

Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, run a knife around the edges to make sure it’s not stuck. Place a plate over the pan and carefully flip it. If any orange slice sticks to the pan, simply place it back on top.

Recommended Beverages to Pair:

• Chai tea

• Orange and ginger tea

• Coffee with milk

• Apple and cinnamon infusion

• Hot cocoa