Orange Upside-Down Cake in Air Fryer

Introduction:

This Orange Upside-Down Cake is a delightful twist on the classic pineapple version. Fresh orange slices caramelize in brown sugar and butter, forming a glistening, citrusy topping that pairs perfectly with a moist vanilla sponge. Using an air fryer keeps the cake light, evenly baked, and saves time. Ideal for brunches, afternoon tea, or a cozy dessert with whipped cream.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

Cool Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: ~55 minutes

Ingredients:

Topping:

2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

¼ cup brown sugar

1–2 medium oranges, thinly sliced (peel removed)

Cake Batter:

1 cup all-purpose flour

½ cup granulated sugar

1½ tsp baking powder

¼ tsp salt

½ cup milk (room temperature)

¼ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter)

1 large egg (room temperature)

1 tsp vanilla extract

Zest of 1 orange

Instructions:

Prepare the Air Fryer Pan

Grease a 6- or 7-inch round baking pan that fits in your air fryer basket.

Pour melted butter into the base of the pan and swirl to coat.

Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the butter.

Arrange orange slices over the sugar in a single, slightly overlapping layer.

Make the Batter

In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and orange zest.

In another bowl, whisk milk, oil, egg, and vanilla until well combined.

Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined (don’t overmix).

Assemble and Bake

Gently pour the batter over the orange slices, smoothing the top with a spatula.

Preheat air fryer to 150°C (300°F) for 3 minutes.

Place the cake pan in the basket. Air fry at 150°C (300°F) for 25–30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.

If browning too fast, cover loosely with foil halfway through cooking.

Cool and Flip

Let cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.

Run a knife around the edge. Invert the cake onto a serving plate.

Let it sit for 5 more minutes before lifting the pan off.

Tips and Tricks:

Use navel oranges for seedless slices and thin skins.

Slice oranges as thin as possible to prevent sogginess.

Don’t skip orange zest—it deepens the citrus flavor.

Add a pinch of cinnamon or cardamom for a warm twist.

If your air fryer is small, use a springform pan with foil base to avoid overflow.

For a richer texture, substitute half the milk with sour cream or yogurt.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve warm or chilled with:

Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream

A drizzle of orange glaze or honey

Dusting of powdered sugar

Nutrition Facts (per slice, based on 8 slices):

Calories: 215

Fat: 10g

Carbohydrates: 30g

Sugar: 17g

Protein: 3g

Fiber: 1g