Pineapple upside down cake is a timeless dessert that has been enjoyed for generations. This classic recipe features a moist and tender cake topped with caramelized pineapple slices and maraschino cherries. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just craving a taste of nostalgia, this pineapple upside down cake is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients for Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 7-8 canned pineapple slices
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup buttermilk
How to Make Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Prepare the Topping:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Melt Butter: In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt the 1/4 cup of butter in the preheating oven. Make sure to swirl the butter around to coat the bottom of the pan.
- Add Brown Sugar: Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
- Arrange Pineapple Slices: Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the brown sugar. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice and in any remaining gaps between the slices.
Make the Cake Batter:
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream Butter and Sugar: In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternate Adding Ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined.
Assemble and Bake the Cake:
- Pour Batter Over Topping: Pour the cake batter over the pineapple slices in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Invert: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Let the cake cool completely before serving.
About the Main Ingredients
Pineapple
Pineapple adds a sweet and tropical flavor to the cake. Canned pineapple slices are commonly used in this recipe for convenience, but you can also use fresh pineapple if preferred. Pineapple is rich in vitamins C and A, as well as dietary fiber.
Maraschino Cherries
Maraschino cherries are used as a garnish on top of the pineapple slices. They add a pop of color and a sweet, fruity flavor to the cake. Maraschino cherries are typically made from sweet cherries that are preserved in a sugar syrup.
Buttermilk
Buttermilk adds moisture and a slight tangy flavor to the cake. It also helps to tenderize the crumb and activate the baking soda for leavening. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5-10 minutes.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is used in the topping to create a caramel-like sauce when combined with the melted butter. It adds a rich, molasses flavor to the cake and helps to caramelize the pineapple slices.
Enjoy Your Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake!
This classic pineapple upside down cake is a true crowd-pleaser. With its moist cake, caramelized pineapple topping, and bright maraschino cherries, it’s a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. Serve it at your next gathering or enjoy a slice with a cup of coffee for a delightful treat that’s sure to satisfy.
