Pineapple upside-down cake is one of those retro desserts that never goes out of style. It’s perfect for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, celebrating a birthday, or simply looking to treat yourself and your family to a delightful dessert. With its caramelized pineapple topping and soft, buttery cake, this classic confection is a real crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are several reasons why this pineapple upside-down cake will become a favorite in your household. First and foremost, it combines sweet, tangy pineapple with a soft, spongy base that is so satisfying. The caramel sauce and maraschino cherries add a lovely pop of color and a burst of flavor that’s hard to resist.
Secondly, it’s incredibly straightforward to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients. Even if you’re not an experienced baker, you’ll find this recipe easy to follow. Plus, it’s a great make-ahead dessert that tastes just as good, if not better, the next day!
Lastly, the presentation is simply stunning. When you flip it over, the vibrant pineapple and beautiful cherries make for an eye-catching treat that’s sure to impress your guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to ensuring your pineapple upside-down cake turns out perfectly. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 can (20 oz) sliced pineapple in syrup (drained, juice reserved)
- Maraschino cherries (about 10-12 cherries)
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/2 tsp baking soda
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
With these ingredients in hand, you’ll be ready to create a stunning pineapple upside-down cake!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Topping
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a round 9-inch cake pan, melt the butter over low heat. Once melted, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
2. Arrange the Pineapple and Cherries
Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the sugar mixture in a decorative pattern. You can place a cherry in the center of each pineapple slice and fill in any gaps with additional cherries. This will create a beautiful presentation once the cake is flipped over.
3. Mix the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. In another bowl, combine the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and 1/4 cup of the reserved pineapple juice. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, or your cake could turn out dense.
4. Pour the Batter
Pour the batter over the arranged pineapple slices in the cake pan, smoothing it out with a spatula to ensure an even coating.
5. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for about 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and smell absolutely heavenly!
6. Cool and Flip
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. After cooling, carefully run a knife around the edges to loosen it. Place a serving plate over the cake pan and quickly invert it, allowing the cake to slide out. This step is crucial, so be cautious!
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pineapple upside-down cake warm or at room temperature. For an added touch of indulgence, a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream complements the flavors perfectly. You could also sprinkle some toasted coconut on top for a tropical twist!
Storage Tips
This cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 days. Make sure to cover it with plastic wrap or foil to keep it fresh. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week. You can also freeze the cake by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. To serve, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before enjoying.
Helpful Tips
- Use freshly sliced pineapple for an even more vibrant flavor.
- If you like a bit of texture, add chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter before baking.
- For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use fresh pineapple for this recipe?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can be used instead of canned slices for a more intense flavor and texture. Just make sure to slice them evenly for even cooking.
What kind of pan should I use for pineapple upside-down cake?
A 9-inch round cake pan works best, but you could also use a cast-iron skillet for a rustic touch. Just make sure it’s oven-safe and well-greased.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day in advance. It’s a great dessert to make ahead, as the flavors continue to develop. Simply store it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.
Why is my pineapple upside-down cake soggy?
If your cake turns out soggy, it might be due to too much pineapple juice or improper baking time. Make sure to drain the pineapple well before using and follow the baking time closely.
Conclusion
The pineapple upside-down cake is a nostalgic dessert that combines sweet, spiced flavors with an eye-catching presentation. Whether it’s a special event or a cozy family dinner, this cake will surely bring smiles and satisfaction to everyone at the table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you’ll be coming back to this recipe time and time again.
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Delicious Pineapple UpsideDown Cake Easy Recipe Awaits
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Bake a delicious Pineapple UpsideDown Cake with our easy recipe Impress your guests with this classic dessert thats sure to delight
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- cooling time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320 calories
- Sugar: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g