Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a timeless dessert that has been delighting taste buds for generations. With its caramelized pineapple rings and maraschino cherries set atop a moist and buttery cake, this dessert is both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. Perfect for any occasion, this cake is surprisingly easy to make and will leave your guests begging for more. Follow this step-by-step guide to create a classic Pineapple Upside-Down Cake that will become a staple in your baking repertoire.
Ingredients for Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
- Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices in juice, drained
- 10-12 maraschino cherries
- Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup whole milk
How to Make Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Step 1: Prepare the Topping
- Melt butter: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a 9-inch round cake pan. Put the pan in the preheating oven until the butter is melted.
- Add brown sugar: Once the butter is melted, remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
- Arrange pineapples and cherries: Arrange the pineapple slices in a single layer over the brown sugar mixture. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice and in any gaps between the slices.
Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter
- Mix dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- Cream butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.
- Add eggs and vanilla: Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 3: Assemble and Bake the Cake
- Pour batter over topping: Carefully pour the cake batter over the arranged pineapples and cherries in the cake pan. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Cool and invert: Allow the cake to cool in the pan on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edge of the pan to loosen the cake. Place a serving plate over the cake pan and carefully invert the cake onto the plate. Let the pan sit inverted for a few minutes to allow the topping to set before removing the pan.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Slice and serve: Once the pan is removed, let the cake cool for an additional 10 minutes. Slice and serve warm or at room temperature. Enjoy the sweet, buttery, and fruity flavors of this classic dessert.
About the Main Ingredients
Pineapple
The pineapple is the star of this cake, providing a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly complements the buttery cake. Canned pineapple slices are commonly used for convenience and consistency, but fresh pineapple can be substituted for an even fresher taste. The juice from the pineapple also adds moisture to the cake, ensuring it remains soft and tender.
Brown Sugar
Brown sugar is used to create the caramelized topping that gives this cake its signature look and flavor. When combined with butter, it forms a rich, sticky layer that enhances the sweetness of the pineapple and cherries. The molasses in the brown sugar adds depth and a hint of toffee-like flavor.
Butter
Butter is a crucial ingredient in both the topping and the cake batter. In the topping, it helps to caramelize the brown sugar, while in the batter, it provides a rich and tender crumb. Using unsalted butter allows for better control over the salt content in the recipe.
Maraschino Cherries
Maraschino cherries add a pop of color and an extra touch of sweetness to the cake. Their bright red hue makes the cake visually appealing, while their distinct flavor pairs well with the pineapple. These cherries are preserved and sweetened, making them a perfect decorative element for this dessert.
Eggs
Eggs play a vital role in the structure and stability of the cake. They provide moisture, richness, and help to bind the ingredients together. Beating the eggs well ensures that the cake rises properly and has a light, airy texture.
All-Purpose Flour
All-purpose flour is the base of the cake batter, giving the cake its structure. It’s important to measure the flour correctly and avoid overmixing to prevent the cake from becoming dense. Sifting the flour before measuring can help achieve a lighter texture.
Vanilla Extract
Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the cake, adding a subtle sweetness and warmth. It complements the fruity and caramel flavors of the pineapple and brown sugar topping.
Milk
Milk adds moisture and helps to create a smooth, cohesive batter. Whole milk is preferred for its richness, but lower-fat milks can be used if desired. The milk also helps to activate the baking powder, aiding in the cake’s rise.
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful dessert that combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the comforting flavors of a classic butter cake. This recipe is easy to follow and results in a beautiful, delicious cake that is sure to impress. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or enjoyed on its own, this cake is a true crowd-pleaser.
