This Mango Coconut Upside-Down Cake is a tropical delight that flips the classic upside-down cake on its head with a burst of mango and coconut flavors. It's perfect for summer gatherings or when you just want a slice of sunshine on your plate. Let's dive into this easy, breezy recipe that brings a taste of paradise to your kitchen.
Butter is used to create a luscious caramel layer when combined with brown sugar, which will coat the mango slices. Brown sugar adds depth with its molasses notes, perfectly complementing the fruit. Mango is the star, offering its juicy sweetness and vibrant color. All-purpose flour is the foundation of the cake, providing structure. Baking powder helps the cake rise, ensuring a fluffy texture. A pinch of salt enhances all the other flavors. Granulated sugar sweetens the cake batter itself. Coconut milk and shredded coconut infuse the cake with a creamy, tropical flavor. Finally, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract contribute to a moist, fragrant cake.
This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. For a touch of freshness, garnish with a sprinkle of lime zest or some fresh mint leaves. If you're serving it as a brunch treat, a side of fresh berries complements it beautifully.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Start by melting the butter directly in a 9-inch round cake pan over low heat. Once melted, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter to create a smooth layer.
Arrange the mango slices in a single layer on top of the sugar. Try to cover as much of the base as possible, slightly overlapping the slices if necessary to ensure every bite has some mango.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. In a separate large bowl, beat the granulated sugar, coconut milk, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and fully combined.
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring just until you see no more streaks of flour. Be careful not to overmix. Gently fold in the shredded coconut until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Pour the batter over the mango slices in the pan, using a spatula to spread it evenly to the edges. Place the cake in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes. You'll know it's done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully invert it onto a serving plate. The buttery caramel and mango will now be on top. Serve warm or let it cool to room temperature — it's delicious either way!