Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This pineapple upside-down cake is the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. The moist cake is made even more delightful with a layer of caramelized pineapple, making every bite a taste of pure indulgence. The combination of brown sugar and butter creates a rich, golden topping that’s impossible to resist. The simplicity of the ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions make it a dessert anyone can create, regardless of experience. It’s a nostalgic, yet timeless recipe that never disappoints.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained (reserve the juice)
• maraschino cherries (optional)
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice (reserved from the can)
• 1/4 cup milk

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter and 1/2 cup brown sugar over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is bubbly. Pour this caramel mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
3. Arrange the pineapple slices over the caramel mixture in the pan. You can place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice for a festive touch, if desired.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
5. In another bowl, cream together the softened butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until light and fluffy.
6. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients alternately with the pineapple juice and milk, mixing until smooth.
7. Pour the batter over the pineapple slices in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.
8. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
9. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate. Let it cool completely before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 8 slices
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 35 minutes
• Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

1. Coconut Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Add 1/2 cup of shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical twist.
2. Cherry Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Add extra maraschino cherries alongside the pineapple for a more colorful topping.
3. Upside-Down Cake with a Cinnamon Twist: Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the brown sugar and butter mixture for a warm, spiced flavor.
4. Vegan Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: Substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover pineapple upside-down cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week.
• Reheating: To reheat, cover with foil and place in a preheated 300°F (150°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or microwave individual slices for about 20-30 seconds.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple slices?

Yes, you can use fresh pineapple. Slice it into rings and caramelize them with butter and brown sugar before placing them in the pan.

2. Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the cake a day ahead and store it at room temperature in an airtight container.

3. How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Grease the pan well and make sure the caramel mixture is evenly spread before adding the cake batter.

4. Can I freeze pineapple upside-down cake?

Yes, you can freeze the cake. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

5. Can I substitute the butter in this recipe?

Yes, you can use margarine or a non-dairy butter substitute in this recipe.

6. How do I know when the cake is fully baked?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown.

7. Can I use a different type of fruit for the topping?

Yes, you can experiment with fruits like peaches, apricots, or even berries as a topping for a different flavor.

8. How can I make the cake more moist?

To make the cake more moist, ensure that you don’t overmix the batter and try using cake flour instead of all-purpose flour.

9. Can I make this cake in a different pan size?

Yes, you can adjust the pan size, but keep in mind that the baking time may change. If using a larger or smaller pan, check the cake after 25 minutes.

10. Why is my upside-down cake soggy?

If your cake is soggy, it may be because there was too much liquid in the pan or the cake wasn’t baked long enough. Ensure the butter and sugar mixture is evenly spread and cooked properly.

Conclusion

Pineapple upside-down cake is an easy-to-make dessert that is guaranteed to impress. With its light and fluffy cake and rich, sweet pineapple topping, this cake is perfect for any occasion. It’s simple, nostalgic, and always a crowd favorite. Whether you’re a novice baker or a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your dessert repertoire