I recently was gifted a big, beautiful bowl of star fruit from my neighbor’s tree, and I immediately started thinking about what I could bake with them. Their natural star shape is just too pretty not to show off! That’s when it hit me, why not turn them into an upside down cake?
Similar to a classic pineapple upside down cake, this version has that same buttery brown sugar topping, but with a fun tropical twist. The star-shaped fruit with bright cherry centers bake into the most adorable flower-like design. It’s unique, eye-catching, and guaranteed to have everyone asking, “What is that?” before they even take their first bite.
Why You’ll Love Star Fruit Upside Down Cake
Naturally beautiful presentation – The star fruit and cherry centers look like little flowers.
Soft, tender cake – A simple vanilla cake that pairs perfectly with the caramelized topping.
Tropical twist on a classic – Like pineapple upside down cake, but more unique.
Easy, everyday ingredients – No complicated steps or specialty equipment.
Perfect for entertaining – A total showstopper for brunch, showers, or spring gatherings.
What you need
Ingredient Notes
Star Fruit (Carambola) - Choose firm, bright yellow fruit with lightly browned edges. Avoid fruit that is overly green (too tart) or overly soft.
Maraschino Cherries - These add a pop of color and sweetness. Be sure to drain them well before placing in the fruit centers.
Light Brown Sugar - Creates that caramelized, glossy topping. Dark brown sugar can be used for a deeper molasses flavor.
Butter - Used in both the topping and the cake. I like salted butter for the best flavor.
Milk - Whole milk works best for richness, but 2% can be substituted.
Baking Powder - Make sure it’s fresh for proper rise.
How to Make Star Fruit Upside Down Cake
Preheat oven to 350°F. Pour melted butter into a round cake pan and stir in brown sugar and water.
Arrange star fruit slices in the pan and set aside.
Mix dry ingredients in one bowl. Add milk, butter, egg, and vanilla; beat until smooth.
Pour batter over fruit layer. Bake 30–35 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool 10–15 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate. Add cherries on top.
Quick Tips for Success
Slice star fruit evenly (about ¼-inch thick) for the prettiest look.
If your fruit is very juicy, lightly pat slices dry before arranging.
Don’t let the cake cool too long before inverting or the topping may stick.
Run a knife around the edge before flipping to loosen the sides.
Place your serving plate upside down on the pan first, then flip confidently in one motion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does star fruit taste like? It has a mild, lightly sweet flavor with a hint of citrus. When baked, it becomes tender and slightly caramelized.
How do I store leftovers? Cover tightly and store at room temperature for up to 1 day or refrigerate for up to 3 days. Bring to room temperature or warm slightly before serving.
Can I make this ahead of time? Yes! Bake earlier in the day and keep covered. For best texture, serve the same day.
Can I freeze this cake? It’s not ideal, as the fruit topping can become watery when thawed.
Related Recipes
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Star Fruit Upside Down Cake
Ingredients
For the fruit layer
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- ⅓ cup dark brown sugar, packed
- 1 tablespoon water
- 3 star fruit, cut into ¼” slices
- 9 maraschino cherries, cut in half (for 18 total halves)
For the cake batter
- 1 ⅓ cups all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ⅔ cup milk
- ¼ cup butter, softened
- 1 egg, room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F. Pour 2 tablespoons melted butter into a 9x1 ½-inch round cake pan. Stir in dark brown sugar and 1 tablespoon water. Cut the star fruit into ¼-inch slices and arrange them in a single layer on the bottom of the cake pan. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add milk, softened butter, egg, and vanilla. Beat by hand until completely smooth and combined. Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pan.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in center of cake comes out clean. Let cool for 10-15 minutes. Loosen sides with a butter knife and invert cake onto plate. Place cherry halves in the center of each star. Serve warm.
- Cover tightly and store at room temperature for up to 1 day. Store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm individual slices in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to refresh the caramelized topping. Not recommended, as the fruit topping can release moisture and become watery after thawing.
Charlotte Moore says
that looks great! I am surprised starfruit will grow in this climate.