Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a classic dessert that has delighted taste buds for generations. Known for its striking appearance and caramelized fruit topping, this cake is a delicious blend of sweet pineapple, buttery brown sugar, and a soft, moist cake. The cake is baked with the pineapple and cherries on the bottom, creating a beautiful caramelized topping that is revealed once the cake is flipped over. It’s a timeless recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to special celebrations. With its unique presentation and delectable flavor, Pineapple Upside Down Cake is sure to impress anyone who takes a bite.

Ingredients for Pineapple Upside Down Cake

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter
• 1 cup (200g) packed brown sugar
• 1 can (20 oz, 567g) sliced pineapple rings in juice
• Maraschino cherries (about 10-12)

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup (120g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup (120ml) whole milk
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Step 1: Prepare the Topping

1. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Ensure that the oven is fully preheated before baking.
2. Prepare the pan: Use a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan. Place a piece of parchment paper on the bottom of the pan to prevent sticking, and set aside.
3. Make the caramel topping: In a small saucepan, melt the 1/4 cup (60g) of unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the packed brown sugar and stir until the mixture is smooth and begins to bubble. Pour this caramel mixture into the bottom of the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly.
4. Arrange the pineapple and cherries: Drain the pineapple rings from the can and arrange them in a single layer on top of the caramel. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring. Set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Cake Batter

1. Mix the dry ingredients: In a medium bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
2. Cream the butter and sugar: In a large mixing bowl, beat the 1/2 cup (120g) of softened butter and 1 cup (200g) of granulated sugar together until light and fluffy. This should take about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the eggs: Beat in the eggs, one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
4. Combine with dry ingredients: Gradually add the flour mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the 1/2 cup (120ml) of whole milk. Begin and end with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
5. Add vanilla extract: Stir in the vanilla extract until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Pour the batter: Gently pour the batter over the pineapple and caramel layer in the prepared pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
2. Bake the cake: Place the cake pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
3. Cool and invert: Once the cake is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Remove the parchment paper if used.
4. Serve: Allow the cake to cool slightly before serving. This cake is delicious on its own or with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

About the Main Ingredients

Unsalted Butter: Unsalted butter is used in both the topping and the cake batter. It provides a rich, buttery flavor and helps to create a tender texture in the cake. Using unsalted butter allows for better control of the cake’s salt content.

Brown Sugar: Brown sugar is used in the caramel topping to create a rich, sweet caramel layer. It adds a deeper flavor compared to granulated sugar and helps to create the delicious, gooey topping that makes Pineapple Upside Down Cake so special.

Pineapple Rings: Pineapple rings are the star of this cake’s topping. They become caramelized during baking, adding a sweet and tangy flavor to each bite. Pineapple also adds moisture to the cake, making it tender and flavorful.

Maraschino Cherries: Maraschino cherries are used for decoration and added sweetness. They complement the pineapple and add a burst of color and flavor.

All-Purpose Flour: All-purpose flour is used to create the cake’s structure. It provides the necessary gluten to help the cake rise and hold its shape.

Granulated Sugar: Granulated sugar is used in the cake batter to sweeten and create a tender crumb. It works in combination with the butter to give the cake its light, fluffy texture.

Eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture to the cake. They help to bind the ingredients together and contribute to the cake’s rise.

Milk: Milk adds moisture to the cake batter and helps to achieve a smooth consistency. It also contributes to the cake’s tender texture.

Baking Powder: Baking powder is the leavening agent that helps the cake rise. It creates a light, fluffy texture by producing carbon dioxide gas during baking.

Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a delightful and visually appealing dessert that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its caramelized pineapple topping and moist, buttery cake, it’s a classic recipe that remains a beloved favorite. Enjoy the process of baking and the delicious results of this timeless cake!