Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a classic dessert that never seems to go out of style. It’s a nostalgic treat that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy kitchen moments. When I first made this recipe, my family was absolutely thrilled. The sweet and tangy flavors combined with the moist, buttery cake had everyone asking for seconds. The beauty of this cake is not just in its taste, but in its presentation. The caramelized pineapples and cherries create a stunning top layer that makes it a feast for the eyes as much as for the palate. If you’re looking to add a touch of retro charm to your dessert table, this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is the perfect choice.

Ingredients

To create this delightful dessert, you’ll need a selection of simple, yet flavorful ingredients. The key to a great Pineapple Upside-Down Cake lies in the quality of its components. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter – This is for creating that rich, buttery base that will meld with the sugars to form the caramelized top.
• 1 cup packed brown sugar – This adds depth and a molasses-like sweetness to the caramel sauce.
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice, drained – The star of the show, these pineapple slices bring a sweet and tangy flavor.
• 10 maraschino cherries – For that classic pop of color and additional sweetness.
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour – The foundation of your cake’s texture.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder – Essential for giving your cake the right amount of lift.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt – To balance the sweetness.
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened – For the cake batter.
• 1 cup granulated sugar – To sweeten the cake itself.
• 2 large eggs – These will help bind and add richness to the cake.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – A hint of vanilla to enhance all other flavors.
• 3/4 cup whole milk – To keep the cake moist and tender.

Instructions

Making a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a rewarding process that fills your kitchen with wonderful aromas. Here’s how you can create this delectable treat:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the cake bakes evenly.
2. Melt the butter in a 9-inch round cake pan over low heat. Once melted, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter. Arrange pineapple slices in a single layer over the sugar mixture and place a cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. This will be your dry mixture.
4. In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar with an electric mixer until light and fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the creamed mixture, alternating with milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. Pour the batter over the pineapple and cherries in the cake pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
8. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edge to loosen the cake, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate.
9. Allow to cool completely before serving. This will help the topping set properly.

Nutrition Facts

This recipe serves approximately 10 people. Each serving contains around 320 calories, making it a delightful yet indulgent treat. While it’s a sweet dessert, it’s perfect for those moments when you want to enjoy something truly special.

Preparation Time

Preparing this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is straightforward. The total time required is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes 20 minutes of active preparation time and 45-50 minutes of baking. Given its impressive result, it’s a relatively quick dessert to whip up for any occasion.

How to Serve

Presentation is key when it comes to serving Pineapple Upside-Down Cake. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of this beautiful dessert:

• Slice the cake into even portions to display the stunning pineapple and cherry topping.
• Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for added richness.
• Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful contrast of warm and cold.
• Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a touch of color and freshness.
• Enjoy with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea to complement the cake’s sweetness.

Additional Tips

Here are some additional tips to ensure your Pineapple Upside-Down Cake turns out perfectly every time:

1. Choose ripe pineapples if you’re using fresh ones. Ripe pineapples have a sweeter taste and will caramelize better.
2. Room temperature ingredients mix more easily, resulting in a smoother batter. Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature before you start.
3. Don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
4. Use a springform pan if you’re worried about inverting the cake. This can make it easier to release the cake without damaging the top.
5. Allow the cake to cool slightly before inverting. This helps the caramel topping set and reduces the risk of it sticking to the pan.

FAQ Section

Here are some frequently asked questions about Pineapple Upside-Down Cake:

Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Just make sure to slice it thinly and evenly for the best results.

Q: How can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure.

Q: Can I make this cake in advance?
A: Yes, you can make it a day in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bring it to room temperature before serving.

Q: What’s the best way to store leftover cake?
A: Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze slices for longer storage.

Q: Can I add nuts to the recipe?
A: Absolutely! Adding chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter or on top of the pineapple layer can add a nice crunch.