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The Gluten-Free Cranberry Cake That’s Sweet, Tart, and Totally Show-Stopping!

The Gluten-Free Cranberry Cake That’s Sweet, Tart, and Totally Show-Stopping!

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There’s something magical about upside-down cakes—the way they emerge golden and caramelized, only to reveal a stunning fruit layer with one dramatic flip.

This Gluten-Free Cranberry Upside Down Cake isn’t just visually stunning; it’s a perfect blend of sweet-tart flavors and textures that gluten-free baking often struggles to deliver.

The ruby-red cranberries melt into a glossy, buttery caramel topping that pairs beautifully with a soft, tender crumb.

If you’re planning a festive brunch, serve this alongside my cozy French Toast Bake for an indulgent pairing that’s perfect for holiday mornings.

And for a savory balance, my Eggs Benedict recipe—complete with rich hollandaise and perfectly poached eggs—is a must.

The secret to this cake? A mix of almond flour and cornstarch, ensuring a moist, delicate bite every time. Whether it’s for the holidays or just because, this cake will quickly become a favorite you’ll bake on repeat.

Why You’ll Be Hooked

Gluten Free Cranberry Upside Down Cake Recipe is ready to serve

  • The cranberries provide the perfect sweet-tart contrast to the buttery, caramelized topping.
  • A gluten-free crumb that’s soft, tender, and never dense—no one will know it’s GF.
  • It’s a showstopper dessert that’s deceptively simple to make.
  • You can prep it ahead of time, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings or weeknight treats.
Gluten Free Cranberry Upside Down Cake Recipe

Gluten Free Cranberry Upside Down Cake Recipe

This Gluten-Free Cranberry Upside Down Cake is a festive, sweet-tart treat perfect for the holidays. Juicy cranberries caramelize beautifully on top of a soft, fluffy gluten-free cake, making it a show-stopping dessert that’s simple to bake and enjoy!
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Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Calories: 309kcal
Author: Anne Carter
Servings: 12

Equipment

  • 9-inch pie plate
  • Mixing Bowls
  • Whisk
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula
  • Oven
  • Toothpick
  • Cooling Rack

Ingredients

  • 1 3/4 Cup fresh cranberries
  • 1/4 Cup vegan butter
  • 1/2 Cup light brown sugar packed
  • 1 2/3 Cup gluten free all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 Cup granulated sugar
  • 3/4 Cup light brown sugar packed
  • 3/4 tsp xanthan gum
  • 1/2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/4 tsp baking soda
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/2 Cup vegetable oil
  • 1 egg room temperature
  • 1/4 Cup dairy free vanilla yogurt
  • 3/4 Cup unsweetened coconut milk from the carton
  • 2 tsp white vinegar
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp almond extract

Instructions

  • Preheat oven to 350°F. Melt 1/4 cup vegan butter and pour it into a 9-inch pie plate. Sprinkle 1/2 cup brown sugar evenly over the butter, then add fresh cranberries.
    vegan cranberry upside down cake melt butter and prepare pie plate
  • In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, 3/4 cup brown sugar, xanthan gum, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
    Mix the Dry Ingredients
  • In another bowl, whisk together vegetable oil, egg, yogurt, milk, vinegar, vanilla, and almond extract.
    Mix the Wet Ingredients
  • Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
  • Spread the batter evenly over the cranberries in the pie plate.
    Spread Batter Over Cranberries
  • Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a cake tester comes out clean.
    Bake
  • Cool for 10 minutes, then invert onto a plate. Serve warm or at room temperature. Leftovers can be stored covered at room temperature for several days.
    Cool the Cake

Nutrition

Calories: 309kcal | Carbohydrates: 40g | Protein: 3g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 6g | Monounsaturated Fat: 4g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 14mg | Sodium: 187mg | Potassium: 78mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 28g | Vitamin A: 200IU | Vitamin C: 0.4mg | Calcium: 45mg | Iron: 1mg

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