Name: Easy Upside Down Kiwi Cake Recipe
Prep time: 30 min
Total time: 3 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: 1¼ cups heavy cream; 1 tbsp sugar; ¾ cup Greek yogurt; 1 castella; 4 kiwis; ½ cup pineapple; 1 orange

Transform your dessert game with this delightful and easy upside-down kiwi cake. This no-bake recipe brings together the tanginess of kiwis and the tropical sweetness of pineapple and orange. It's a visual treat and perfect for any occasion, offering a unique twist on traditional cakes.

Photos of Easy Upside Down Kiwi Cake Recipe

Some ingredients might not be staples in every household. Most notably, castella is a Japanese sponge cake that you might need to find in a specialty store or Asian supermarket. Greek yogurt might also be less common than regular yogurt, but it provides a thicker and creamier texture essential for this recipe.

Ingredients for Easy Upside Down Kiwi Cake

Heavy cream: Provides richness and structure to the whipped cream layer.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the tangy fruits.

Greek yogurt: Adds a creamy texture and slight tanginess to the cream mixture.

Castella: A soft and fluffy Japanese sponge cake that forms the base layers.

Kiwis: Offers a tart and vibrant green topping for the cake.

Pineapple: Contributes a tropical sweetness to the fruit layers.

Orange: Adds a citrusy brightness to the fruit layers.

One reader, Lalo Preciado says:

This easy upside down kiwi cake recipe is a delightful treat! The combination of creamy layers and fresh fruit is simply irresistible. The instructions are clear, making it perfect for beginners. A refreshing and delicious dessert that impresses every time!

Lalo Preciado

Techniques Required for Making an Upside Down Kiwi Cake

How to cut castella: Use a sharp knife to slice the castella into ¼-inch slices on a cutting board. How to whip cream: Use a hand mixer to combine heavy cream and sugar until stiff peaks form. How to line a bowl with plastic wrap: Place a sheet of plastic wrap inside a 7x7-inch bowl, ensuring it covers the entire surface. How to layer ingredients: Add sliced kiwi, whipped cream, castella, chopped orange, and pineapple in alternating layers as described. How to refrigerate properly: Cover the top layer with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 3 hours to set the cake. How to invert the cake: Place a plate on the opening of the bowl, gently turn the bowl over, and remove the plastic wrap to reveal the cake.

How To Make Easy Upside Down Kiwi Cake

Whip up a refreshing, no-bake dessert with this upside-down kiwi cake with layers of pound cake, whipped cream, pineapples, and orange.

Preparation: 30 minutes

Cooking:

Chill Time: 3 hours

Total: 3 hours 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1¼cupsheavy cream
1tbspsugar
¾cupGreek yogurt
1castella,(rectangular Japanese pound cake)
4kiwis,sliced
½cuppineapple,chopped
1orange,chopped

Instructions

On a cutting board, cut the castella into ¼-inch slices.
In a bowl, use a hand mixer to combine the heavy cream and sugar. Add the Greek yogurt and blend until stiff peaks form.
Line a 7×7-inch bowl with plastic wrap and add the sliced kiwi to the bowl.
Add a layer of whipped cream to cover the kiwi. Place the castella on the cream.
Add half of the chopped orange and pineapple. Cover with a layer of whipped cream, and top with castella.
Add the remaining half of orange and pineapple, top with whipped cream, and remaining castella.
Cover the top layer in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for 3 hours.
Place a plate on the opening of the bowl, and gently turn the bowl over, removing the plastic wrap.
Slice the cake, and serve. Enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 255.64kcal
Fat: 20.54g
Saturated Fat: 12.63g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.33g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.82g
Carbohydrates: 15.77g
Fiber: 2.10g
Sugar: 12.18g
Protein: 4.45g
Cholesterol: 72.72mg
Sodium: 37.18mg
Calcium: 82.41mg
Potassium: 235.26mg
Iron: 0.22mg
Vitamin A: 208.44µg
Vitamin C: 61.13mg

Helpful Technique Tip for Making an Upside Down Kiwi Cake

To ensure your whipped cream achieves the perfect consistency, make sure both the heavy cream and the mixing bowl are well-chilled before you start. This will help the cream whip up faster and hold its shape better, resulting in those desired stiff peaks.

Time-Saving Tips for Making This Kiwi Cake Recipe

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the kiwis, pineapple, and orange ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Use pre-made castella: Purchase a pre-made castella to save time on baking.

Efficient layering: Arrange all your ingredients and tools on the counter before you start layering the cake.

Quick chill: Place the cake in the freezer for the first 30 minutes to speed up the chilling process before moving it to the fridge.

Substitute Ingredients For Easy Upside Down Kiwi Cake Recipe

heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream provides a similar rich and creamy texture, making it a suitable dairy-free alternative.
sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and a slight floral note, which complements the fruit flavors in the cake.
greek yogurt - Substitute with sour cream: Sour cream has a similar tangy flavor and creamy consistency, making it a good alternative to Greek yogurt.
castella - Substitute with pound cake: Pound cake has a similar dense and moist texture, which works well as a base for the upside-down cake.
kiwis - Substitute with strawberries: Strawberries provide a sweet and slightly tart flavor, which can replace the unique taste of kiwis.
pineapple - Substitute with mango: Mango offers a sweet and tropical flavor, similar to pineapple, and works well in fruit-based desserts.
orange - Substitute with lemon: Lemon provides a citrusy flavor with a bit more tartness, which can enhance the overall taste of the cake.

Presenting Your Upside Down Kiwi Cake

Use a clear glass bowl: Line a clear glass bowl with plastic wrap to showcase the vibrant layers of kiwi, orange, and pineapple through the sides.
Arrange kiwi slices artfully: Place the kiwi slices in a circular pattern at the bottom of the bowl to create an attractive base when the cake is flipped.
Layer whipped cream evenly: Spread the whipped cream mixture smoothly over each layer to ensure a clean and professional look when sliced.
Use precise castella slices: Cut the castella into uniform ¼-inch slices for consistent layers and a refined appearance.
Incorporate fruit strategically: Distribute the orange and pineapple pieces evenly between layers to maintain balance and visual appeal.
Chill thoroughly: Refrigerate the assembled cake for at least 3 hours to allow the layers to set firmly, ensuring clean slices.
Invert with care: Place a plate over the bowl and gently invert to reveal the beautifully layered kiwi top, removing the plastic wrap carefully.
Garnish with fresh mint: Add a sprig of fresh mint on top of each slice for a touch of elegance and a pop of color.
Serve on white plates: Present each slice on a pristine white plate to highlight the vibrant colors and intricate layers of the cake.
Drizzle with fruit coulis: Lightly drizzle a fruit coulis made from blended kiwi or orange around the plate for added flavor and visual sophistication.

Essential Tools for Making an Upside Down Kiwi Cake

Cutting board: A flat surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients, ensuring your countertop stays clean and undamaged.
Knife: Essential for slicing the castella, kiwis, orange, and pineapple with precision.
Hand mixer: Used to combine the heavy cream and sugar, and to blend in the Greek yogurt until stiff peaks form.
Mixing bowl: A large bowl to hold the heavy cream, sugar, and Greek yogurt while mixing.
Plastic wrap: Used to line the bowl and cover the top layer of the cake, ensuring it sets properly in the refrigerator.
7x7-inch bowl: The mold for the upside-down kiwi cake, giving it its shape.
Refrigerator: Used to chill the cake for 3 hours, allowing it to set and flavors to meld.
Plate: Placed on the opening of the bowl to flip the cake over for serving.
Spatula: Useful for spreading the whipped cream layers evenly over the fruit and castella.
Measuring cups: To accurately measure the heavy cream, sugar, and Greek yogurt.
Peeler: Handy for peeling the kiwis and orange if needed.

Storing and Freezing Your Upside Down Kiwi Cake

Once the cake has been assembled and chilled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it covered with plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out or absorbing any unwanted odors.
If you want to freeze the cake, it's best to do so before adding the final layer of whipped cream and kiwi on top. Wrap the assembled cake tightly in plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Label the package with the date and contents, and freeze for up to 1 month.
To thaw the frozen cake, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. Once thawed, add the final layer of whipped cream and kiwi before serving.
If you have any leftover cake, you can store individual slices in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap each slice tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness and prevent them from drying out.
For best results, consume the cake within the recommended storage times to ensure optimal texture and flavor. The longer the cake is stored, the more likely it is to lose its freshness and become soggy or stale.

Interesting Fact About Upside Down Kiwi Cakes

A fun fact about this recipe is that castella, a type of Japanese sponge cake, is used as the base. This cake is traditionally made with sugar, flour, eggs, and starch syrup, giving it a unique texture and flavor that pairs well with the tropical fruits and creamy layers in this dessert.

Is Making This Kiwi Cake Recipe Economical for Home Cooking?

This easy upside down kiwi cake recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients like kiwis, pineapple, and orange are relatively inexpensive, while heavy cream and greek yogurt add a touch of luxury without breaking the bank. Using castella cake simplifies the process and keeps costs down. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost in USD for a household of 4 people: $15.

Is This Kiwi Cake Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?

This recipe for an upside-down kiwi cake, while delicious, is not particularly healthy. The main ingredients contributing to its less-than-ideal nutritional profile are:

Heavy cream, which is high in saturated fat
Sugar, adding empty calories
Castella, a type of sponge cake, which is made with refined flour and sugar

On the positive side, the recipe does include some healthy ingredients:

Kiwis and oranges, which are rich in vitamin C and fiber
Pineapple, a good source of vitamin C and manganese
Greek yogurt, which provides protein and calcium

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Replace the heavy cream with a combination of low-fat milk and Greek yogurt to reduce the saturated fat content
Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar used in the whipped cream mixture
Opt for a whole wheat or almond flour-based sponge cake instead of the castella to increase the fiber content and reduce refined carbohydrates
Increase the proportion of fruits in the recipe, as they provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber
Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, on top of the cake for an extra boost of healthy fats and protein

By making these adjustments, you can create a more balanced and nutritious version of this upside-down kiwi cake while still maintaining its delightful taste and texture. Remember, moderation is key, and enjoying a treat like this occasionally as part of a well-rounded diet is perfectly acceptable.

Editor's Opinion on This Upside Down Kiwi Cake Recipe

This upside-down kiwi cake recipe is a delightful fusion of tropical flavors and creamy textures. The use of castella adds a unique, spongy base that pairs well with the tangy kiwi and citrusy notes from the orange and pineapple. The whipped cream and Greek yogurt mixture provides a rich, velvety contrast to the fresh fruits. However, consider adding a touch of vanilla extract to the cream for an extra layer of flavor. Overall, it's an easy yet impressive dessert that balances sweetness and acidity beautifully.

Enhance Your Easy Upside Down Kiwi Cake Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Tropical Fruit Salad: Elevate your dessert experience with a vibrant tropical fruit salad. Imagine a medley of mango, papaya, and dragon fruit, drizzled with a hint of lime juice and a sprinkle of mint leaves. This refreshing side-dish will complement the creamy texture of the upside down kiwi cake perfectly.

Coconut Rice Pudding: Indulge in a creamy coconut rice pudding that brings a touch of the exotic to your table. The rich coconut milk and fragrant jasmine rice create a luscious base, while a dash of cardamom and a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes add layers of flavor. This side-dish pairs beautifully with the fruity notes of the kiwi cake.

Mango Sorbet: Cool down with a refreshing mango sorbet. This icy delight, made from ripe mangoes and a touch of lime zest, offers a burst of tropical flavor that contrasts wonderfully with the creamy upside down kiwi cake. It's a light and zesty side-dish that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Honey-Glazed Carrots: For a touch of savory sweetness, try honey-glazed carrots. These tender carrots, roasted to perfection and coated in a honey and butter glaze, provide a delightful balance to the fruity and creamy elements of the kiwi cake. A sprinkle of fresh thyme adds an aromatic finish.

Lemon Basil Granita: Add a refreshing twist with a lemon basil granita. This icy treat, made from fresh lemon juice and infused with basil leaves, offers a zesty and herbaceous counterpoint to the rich flavors of the upside down kiwi cake. It's a palate-cleansing side-dish that will leave you feeling refreshed.

Alternative Recipes Similar to This Upside Down Kiwi Cake

Tropical Fruit Trifle: Dive into layers of pineapple, kiwi, and orange with a creamy yogurt and whipped cream blend. This trifle is a burst of tropical flavors in every spoonful.

Kiwi Yogurt Parfait: Create a refreshing parfait with layers of greek yogurt, kiwi, and a touch of honey. Top it off with some crunchy granola for a delightful texture contrast.

Citrus Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Experience a zesty twist on the classic upside-down cake with slices of orange and pineapple. The caramelized fruits add a delightful tang to the moist cake.

Kiwi Pineapple Smoothie Bowl: Blend kiwi, pineapple, and greek yogurt into a smooth, creamy base. Top with fresh fruits, nuts, and a drizzle of honey for a nutritious breakfast or snack.

Orange Pineapple Yogurt Cake: Bake a moist and tangy cake using greek yogurt, orange zest, and pineapple. This cake is perfect for a light dessert or an afternoon treat.

Appetizer and Main Course Pairings for This Kiwi Cake Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Elevate your appetizer game with these delightful stuffed mushrooms. Start by hollowing out button mushrooms and fill them with a savory mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Bake until golden and bubbly. The creamy filling contrasts beautifully with the earthy mushrooms, making each bite a burst of flavor. Perfect for any gathering, these mushrooms are sure to impress your guests.

Bruschetta: Transform your next gathering with a classic bruschetta. Begin with slices of toasted baguette, rubbed with garlic for an extra kick. Top with a vibrant mixture of diced tomatoes, basil, and olive oil. The freshness of the tomatoes combined with the aromatic basil creates a delightful contrast to the crispy bread. This appetizer is not only delicious but also visually appealing, making it a perfect start to any meal.

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Elevate your dinner with this succulent dish. Marinate chicken breasts in a zesty blend of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs. Grill to perfection, ensuring a juicy and flavorful bite every time. Serve alongside a vibrant quinoa salad with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a refreshing contrast.

Stuffed Bell Peppers: Stuffed Bell Peppers: Delight in these colorful and nutritious bell peppers filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, and tomato sauce. Enhance the filling with onions, garlic, and a blend of Italian herbs. Top with a generous layer of melted cheese and bake until the peppers are tender and the filling is bubbling. Pair with a side of garlic bread and a crisp Caesar salad for a complete meal.

Why trust this Easy Upside Down Kiwi Cake Recipe:

This recipe combines the refreshing taste of kiwi with the creamy texture of whipped cream and greek yogurt. The use of castella adds a unique, sponge-like consistency that perfectly complements the fruits. The step-by-step instructions ensure that even beginners can create this delightful dessert. Plus, the refrigeration time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a cake that's both visually stunning and delicious. Trust this recipe for a simple yet impressive treat that will wow your guests.

Want to share your experience making this Easy Upside Down Kiwi Cake Recipe or have any tips to perfect it? Join the discussion in the Baking and Desserts forum!

FAQ:

How do I know when the whipped cream has reached stiff peaks?

You'll know the whipped cream has reached stiff peaks when you lift the beaters, and the cream holds its shape without collapsing. It should form firm peaks that stand up straight.

Can I use a different type of cake instead of castella?

Absolutely! If you can't find castella, you can use sponge cake or even pound cake as a substitute. Just make sure it's not too dry.

How do I prevent the kiwi from making the cake soggy?

To prevent the kiwi from making the cake soggy, make sure to pat the kiwi slices dry with a paper towel before layering them in the bowl. This helps reduce excess moisture.

Can I use other fruits instead of kiwi, pineapple, and orange?

Yes, you can definitely mix it up with other fruits. Strawberries, blueberries, or mangoes would work great. Just make sure to balance the flavors and textures.

How long can I store the upside-down kiwi cake in the fridge?

You can store the cake in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just keep it covered with plastic wrap to maintain its freshness and prevent it from drying out.