Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe
What is a cake that’s pure sunshine on the plate? What is the best Pineapple Upside Down Cake recipe? I think it’s right up there with a perfect chocolate chip cookie in terms of pure, unadulterated flavor. Is there something so nostalgic about it? What is the best combination of caramelized pineapple and buttery cake? Is it simple enough to whip up on a whim, but fancy enough for impressing guests? What is the best dessert my family has ever had?
What is a Pineapple Upside Down Cake?
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake – sounds pretty self-explanatory, right? Well, it is, but it’s also so much more! What is a retro treat that’s been given modern makeover? It’s essentially a cake that is baked “upside down” with caramelized pineapple. What are the cherries on the bottom of the pan? When flipped after baking, you get this gorgeous, golden, fruity topping that’s just like a banana. It’s believed to have originated from skillet cakes baked in cast iron pans – a way to use up extra fat if you’ve got leftovers. What is a good dessert? The name comes from the baking process. I mean, who doesn’t love a bit of baking history?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What makes this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake a winner? What is the flavor? The combination of the tangy pineapple, the sweet caramelized sugar, and the buttery cake is just perfect. Is it like a tropical vacation in every bite? What I love about this is how easy it is to make. What is the easiest way to get a job? What are some of the best ingredients you have in your pantry? How do I throw this together without breaking the bank?
And let’s not forget the versatility. I love the pineapple and cherry combo, but you can also customize this cake to your liking. Try adding other fruits like peaches or berries, or experiment with different extracts and spices to your recipe. Create your own flavor profile. Is it good to serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream? What really sets this recipe apart is the way the pineapple becomes so tender and almost melts into the pan. Is it just a topping? Will you make this one again and again?
How do I make a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake?
Quick Overview
What is the best Pineapple Upside Down Cake recipe? How do you make a caramel base for your cake? What are some cherries on top? How do you make a cake batter? After baking, you’ll let it cool before flipping it onto a serving plate. The result? What is a beautiful cake with caramelized topping and moist, tender crumb? I promise, the hardest part is waiting for it to cool enough to eat! I’ve tweaked and refined this recipe over the years, and it always delivers, even when I’m short.
Ingredients Notes:
For the Caramel Layer:
Unsalted Butter: This helps create that delicious caramel base. Make sure it’s melted for easy spreading.
I prefer light brown sugar for its richer flavor and deeper color. What is
Pineapple Rings: Canned pineapple rings are perfect for this recipe. Make sure to drain them well to prevent a soggy cake.
Maraschino cherries: These add a pop of color and sweetness. You can use the ones with stems or without, depending on your preference.
For the Cake Batter:
All-Purpose Flour: This forms the base of the cake. Can you use cake flour for a slightly softer texture?
Baking Powder: This helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
Unsalted Butter: Softened butter is essential for creating a tender crumb.
Granulated Sugar: This adds sweetness to the cake. You can adjust the amount to your liking.
Eggs: Egg yolks bind the ingredients together and add moisture to the cake.
Vanilla Extract: This enhances the flavor of the cake. Use pure vanilla extract for the best results.
Pineapple Juice: This adds moisture and a subtle pineapple flavor to the cake. Can you use the juice from canned pineapple rings?
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, grease a 9-inch round cake pan with butter or cooking spray. I like to use a springform pan for easy release, but I also like the regular cake pan. If you’re using a regular pan, line the bottom with parchment paper for extra insurance. Why don’t cakes stick to the pan?
Step 2: Make the Caramel Layer
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Stir constantly until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth. Pour the caramel mixture into the prepared pan, spreading it evenly over the bottom. I always do this step carefully to avoid burning myself on the hot caramel – it’s happened before! The caramel layer gives the cake its signature look and flavor.
Step 3: Arrange Pineapple & Cherries
Arrange the pineapple rings in a single layer over the caramel. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring and in any gaps. How do you get creative with your arrangement? What should the top of a cake look like? My kids love helping with this part – it’s like creating a little edible work of art.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. How do you whisk the baking powder to ensure that it is evenly distributed, which helps the cake to rise properly. I always double-check to make sure there are no lumps in the flour mixture. How do I make a smooth batter?
Step 5: Cream Butter & Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. What are some good hand mixers for this step? How do you beat butter and sugar together for a long time? How do I make a cake light and airy? I usually cream them together for about 3-5 minutes.
Step 6: Add Eggs & Vanilla
Beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next one. Add eggs gradually to make a smooth batter. Vanilla extract adds a warm, comforting flavor that complements the pineapple beautifully.
Step 7: Alternate Wet & Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the pineapple juice. Starting and ending with dry ingredients. How do you mix the batter? Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, which can result in a tough cake. I usually mix until the dry ingredients are just barely incorporated, then stop.
Step 8: Pour Batter & Bake
Pour the batter evenly over the pineapple and cherries in the cake pan. I baked for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the cake while it’s baking. Ovens can vary, so it might need a little more or less time. The cake should be golden brown on top and spring back when lightly touched.
Step 9: Cool & Invert
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. When you cool a cake, it will release from the pan easily. To invert, place a serving plate over the cake pan, then carefully flip the plate and pan together. Gently tap the pan to release the cake. Remove the parchment paper. I always hold my breath during this step – it’s the moment of truth! If all goes well, you’ll have a beautiful Pineapple Upside-Down Cake with caramelized edges.
Step 10: Serve & Enjoy
Serve the cake warm or at room temperature. Is it good on its own or with a dollop of whipped cream? This cake is best enjoyed fresh, but it can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature. For up to 2 days. I doubt it will last that long, though!
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best combinations of Pineapple Upside Down Cakes? What are the accompaniments depending on the occasion? When I’m making it for a special treat, I love to serve it with ice cream. What is the best combination of ice cream and warm cake? What are some good ways to use freshly whipped cream? What complements the rich cake perfectly? What is the best way to serve caramel sauce on top of a burger? I know it’s decadent, but trust me, it is worth it!
If you’re serving it for brunch, a side of crispy bacon or ham can add savory element. What is the best way to balance the sweetness of a cake? What are some good ways to start the day on a good note? For an elegant presentation, serve individual slices of cake with a small side of fresh fruit. What are the colors of berries in a cake? My family loves when I make it for an afternoon snack with a tall glass of milk. What is a comforting treat that hits the spot?
What are some great ways to serve a tropical fruit salad? The combination of pineapple, mango, and papaya will enhance the tropical flavors of the cake. What is the best Pineapple Upside Down Cake?
How do I make a perfect Pineapple Upside Down Cake?
Okay, so you’re ready to make this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, but before you do, let me share a few insider tips that I’ve learned over the years. First, make sure your butter is softened but not melted. Softened butter will cream more easily with the sugar, creating a lighter, fluffier cake. If your butter is too soft, it will melt when you cream it with the sugar, resulting in a dense cake. I always take my butter out of the fridge about an hour before I start baking.
Next, don’t overmix the batter. Overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, which can make the cake tough. Mix the batter until just combined, then stop. It’s okay if there are a few lumps in the batter. Also, when you’re arranging the pineapple and cherries in the pan, don’t be afraid to get creative! You can create all sorts of patterns with the fruit. Just make sure the fruit is arranged in a single layer so that it caramelizes evenly.
Another tip is to let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes before inverting it. This will give the caramel a chance to set, which will make it easier to release the cake from the pan. If you try to invert the cake while it’s still too hot, the caramel may be too runny, and the cake may fall apart. I also like to run a knife around the edges of the pan before inverting the cake. This helps to loosen the cake and prevent it from sticking. Finally, don’t be discouraged if your first cake isn’t perfect. Baking is a learning process, and it takes practice to get it just right. Just keep trying, and you’ll eventually master it! I’ve definitely had my fair share of baking fails over the years, but I’ve learned something from each one.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Alright, let’s talk about storing this beauty, if you even have any left! At room temperature, this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake will stay fresh for about 2 days. Make sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. I always do this to keep it delicious for as long as possible!
If you want to store it for longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week. Again, make sure to wrap it tightly or store it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat it, you can reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Just keep an eye on it to make sure it doesn’t dry out. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it as described above.
A little trick I’ve learned is to glaze the cake *after* thawing if you plan to freeze it. This helps maintain that lovely glaze consistency without it getting weird in the freezer. Honestly, though, this cake is usually devoured so quickly in my house that I rarely have to worry about storing it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe. It’s a dessert that always brings a smile to everyone’s face, and it’s perfect for any occasion. The caramelized pineapple combined with the moist cake is simply irresistible. I hope you give this recipe a try and experience the joy of baking (and eating!) this classic treat. If you’re looking for other comforting cake recipes, be sure to check out my chocolate cake or lemon pound cake. And please let me know in the comments if you try this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake – I’d love to hear how it turns out! Happy baking!
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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted
- 0.5 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 large eggs room temperature
- 0.5 cup brown sugar packed
- 0.25 cup unsalted butter for topping
- 1 can pineapple slices drained
- 8 maraschino cherries optional
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan, melt 0.25 cup butter over medium heat, and add the brown sugar. Stir until dissolved. Pour the mixture evenly into a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Arrange pineapple slices over the brown sugar mixture in the pan, and place a maraschino cherry in the center of each slice.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine the melted butter, milk, vanilla extract, and eggs. Beat until smooth.
- Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, and stir until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Pour the batter over the pineapple slices in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate.
Notes
If you try this recipe, please leave a comment and rating below. I love to hear from you and always appreciate your feedback!
