This delightful upside-down cake features a vibrant pink patchwork top made from forced rhubarb, complemented by the warm flavors of two types of ginger and white chocolate. It’s a visually stunning dessert that’s perfect for any occasion.

FULL RECIPE

Ingredients

• 400g forced rhubarb, cut into 5cm lengths
• 100g golden caster sugar
• 1 tbsp ground ginger
• 1 tbsp finely grated fresh ginger
• 100g white chocolate, chopped
• 200g unsalted butter, softened
• 200g golden caster sugar
• 3 large eggs
• 200g self-raising flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1 tsp ground ginger
• 1 tsp finely grated fresh ginger
• 50g whole milk

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan) or 350°F.
2. In a saucepan, combine the rhubarb, 100g golden caster sugar, ground ginger, and fresh ginger. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes until the rhubarb softens slightly. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In a separate bowl, melt the white chocolate gently over a bain-marie or in the microwave. Allow it to cool slightly.
4. In a large mixing bowl, beat together the softened butter and 200g golden caster sugar until light and fluffy.
5. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
6. Sift together the self-raising flour, baking powder, ground ginger, and fresh ginger. Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture.
7. Stir in the melted white chocolate and milk until the batter is smooth.
8. Grease and line a round cake tin. Pour the rhubarb mixture into the bottom of the tin, spreading it evenly.
9. Pour the cake batter over the rhubarb, smoothing the top.
10. Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
11. Allow the cake to cool in the tin for 10 minutes before turning it out onto a serving plate.

Nutritional Information

• Calories: 350 per serving
• Protein: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fat: 15g
• Fiber: 2g

The Origin of Rhubarb and Its Unique Flavor Profile

Rhubarb has a long history, initially cultivated for medicinal purposes before becoming a popular food ingredient. Its tart, sour flavor is distinctive and makes it ideal for desserts, especially when paired with sweet ingredients. The combination of rhubarb’s acidity and sweetness, as seen in this cake, creates a perfect balance that tantalizes the taste buds.

Rhubarb as a Versatile Ingredient in Baking

Rhubarb is incredibly versatile in the kitchen. Its sour taste makes it ideal for complementing sweet ingredients in a variety of baked goods. Whether used in pies, crumbles, or cakes, rhubarb adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that cuts through the richness of butter, sugar, and cream. The rhubarb in this upside-down cake provides a tangy base that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the ginger and white chocolate.

The Role of Ginger in Baking

Ginger is an aromatic spice known for its unique flavor profile, which adds a slight warmth and depth to any dish. In baking, ginger is often used to add a zesty punch and depth to cakes, cookies, and breads. For this cake, both ground and fresh ginger are used, bringing a subtle spiciness that pairs perfectly with the tangy rhubarb.

The Importance of White Chocolate in This Cake

White chocolate contributes a creamy, sweet element to the cake. Unlike dark or milk chocolate, white chocolate doesn’t have cocoa solids, giving it a smooth, sweet flavor that contrasts with the tart rhubarb and the heat of the ginger. It adds a layer of richness and smoothness, making each bite indulgent and satisfying.

The Magic of Upside-Down Cakes

Upside-down cakes are a unique and visually striking dessert. The method of placing fruit at the bottom of the cake tin creates a caramelized layer that forms the top of the cake once flipped over. This technique not only creates a stunning presentation but also ensures that the fruit retains its juiciness and flavor, which seeps into the cake during baking.

Why Forced Rhubarb is Ideal for This Cake

Forced rhubarb, grown in the dark to produce tender, bright pink stalks, is a key ingredient in this recipe. It has a milder flavor than outdoor rhubarb, making it perfect for delicate desserts like this cake. Its vibrant color also makes the cake visually appealing, adding an aesthetic charm to the finished dish.

How to Achieve the Perfect Cake Texture

Achieving the perfect cake texture requires a delicate balance of ingredients and proper technique. In this recipe, the butter and sugar are creamed together to create a light and airy mixture. The incorporation of eggs, flour, and milk creates a smooth batter that rises evenly, producing a fluffy and moist cake. The key is to avoid overmixing, which can result in a dense texture.

The Role of Baking Powder in the Cake

Baking powder plays a crucial role in ensuring the cake rises. It is a leavening agent that helps the batter expand as it bakes, creating a light and fluffy texture. The baking powder in this recipe works in conjunction with the self-raising flour to ensure that the cake has just the right amount of lift, without being overly dense or heavy.

The Significance of Milk in the Cake Batter

Milk adds moisture to the cake, ensuring that it remains soft and tender. It also helps to bring the dry ingredients together, making the batter smoother and easier to work with. The milk in this cake recipe complements the butter and helps create a cake that has a perfect crumb texture, moist without being greasy.

Tips for Perfectly Caramelizing Rhubarb

The rhubarb in this upside-down cake is caramelized to enhance its sweetness and depth of flavor. To achieve this, it is cooked gently in sugar and spices before being placed in the cake tin. The caramelization process ensures that the rhubarb releases its natural sugars, creating a beautiful, golden topping that forms the signature layer of the upside-down cake.

The Aesthetic Appeal of an Upside-Down Cake

One of the most appealing aspects of an upside-down cake is its striking appearance. When the cake is flipped over, the caramelized fruit creates a glossy, colorful layer that catches the light. This is particularly true with rhubarb, whose vibrant pink hue contrasts beautifully with the golden-brown caramelized sugar, creating a dessert that is as stunning as it is delicious.

How to Ensure Your Cake Doesn’t Stick to the Pan

To prevent the cake from sticking to the pan when flipped, it’s important to properly grease and line the cake tin. You can use parchment paper or baking spray to line the bottom of the pan, ensuring that the caramelized rhubarb comes out smoothly without sticking. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect presentation.

Serving Suggestions for Rhubarb and Ginger Upside-Down Cake

This cake is perfect on its own, but it can be enhanced with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of crème fraîche. For an extra touch, sprinkle some finely chopped crystallized ginger on top to add a bit of texture and a deeper ginger flavor.

How to Store Leftover Cake

If you happen to have any leftovers, storing this cake is simple. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh for up to three days. You can also freeze the cake for longer storage. Just make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and foil before freezing to prevent freezer burn.

Adjusting the Recipe for Dietary Restrictions

If you’re catering to specific dietary needs, this recipe can be adapted in several ways. To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the self-raising flour with a gluten-free flour blend and ensure the baking powder is also gluten-free. For a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a non-dairy alternative and use plant-based milk.

Pairing Wine or Beverages with Rhubarb and Ginger Cake

This cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of drinks. A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc can complement the tartness of the rhubarb. Alternatively, a ginger-infused cocktail or a refreshing iced tea would bring out the ginger notes in the cake. For a non-alcoholic option, try pairing it with sparkling water with a twist of lime.

The History Behind Upside-Down Cakes

Upside-down cakes have been around for centuries, with variations found in various cultures. The technique of cooking fruit and cake together in one pan has been a popular method since the early 20th century. This method allows the fruit to caramelize and meld with the cake, creating a rich, flavorful dessert.

The Benefits of Using Fresh Ginger in Baking

Fresh ginger adds a distinct, zesty flavor that elevates the dish beyond the typical ground ginger flavor. Its subtle heat and freshness balance the sweetness of the white chocolate and the tartness of the rhubarb. Fresh ginger also provides an extra layer of depth to the overall flavor profile of the cake, making it more aromatic.

How to Make Rhubarb and Ginger Cake More Indulgent

To make the cake more indulgent, you can experiment with additional flavorings or toppings. Consider adding a drizzle of dark chocolate over the top for a richer flavor contrast or incorporating a touch of cinnamon or vanilla into the batter for added warmth. For extra moisture, try incorporating sour cream or yogurt into the batter.

Conclusion

Rhubarb and ginger upside-down cake is a delightful dessert that combines unique flavors and textures in a stunning visual package. The tartness of rhubarb, the warmth of ginger, and the creaminess of white chocolate make for a memorable and indulgent treat. Perfect for special occasions or as a weekend baking project, this cake is sure to impress anyone lucky enough to enjoy a slice.