Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe

Name: Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1 cup packed brown sugar; 1 can (20 oz pineapple slices, drained); Maraschino cherries; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup milk; 2 large eggs

Indulge in a slice of nostalgia with this delicious Pineapple Upside Down Cake! This classic dessert combines the sweetness of caramelized pineapple and cherries with a fluffy butter cake, making it a delightful treat for gatherings or a cozy family dinner. Easy to make and visually stunning, this cake is sure to impress your guests and become a staple in your dessert repertoire. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the simple steps to create this delicious masterpiece.

Ingredients

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter
– 1 cup packed brown sugar
– 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained
– Maraschino cherries
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 1/2 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe yields 8 servings. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 40 minutes, totaling about 1 hour.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (1 slice) contains approximately 250 calories, 10g fat, 38g carbohydrates, and 3g protein. This is based on a standard 1/8 of the cake.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt butter in a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
4. Arrange pineapple slices on top of the brown sugar.
5. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
6. In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt.
7. In another bowl, cream together the remaining butter and granulated sugar.
8. Add eggs and milk to the butter mixture, mixing well.
9. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.
10. Pour the batter over the pineapple and cherries in the pan.

11. Bake for 40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
12. Let it cool for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil for a dairy-free option. Alternatively, use brown sugar for a deeper flavor or fresh pineapple instead of canned for a fresher taste.

Serving and Pairings

Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. Pair with a cup of coffee or a refreshing fruit punch for a delightful dessert experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the microwave for 15-20 seconds. This cake can be frozen for up to 2 months; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.

Cooking Mistakes

Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven baking.
Using too much flour can make the cake dense.
Not letting the cake cool before inverting can cause it to break.
Skipping the butter and sugar caramelization step will affect flavor.
Overmixing the batter can result in a tough texture.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh pineapple for a vibrant taste.
Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Experiment with different fruits like peaches or cherries.
Let the cake rest before serving for easier slicing.

FAQs

Can I use other fruits besides pineapple?

Yes, you can use other fruits like peaches, cherries, or even apples. Just make sure they are cut into similar sizes for even cooking.

How do I know when the cake is done?

The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, and the edges start to pull away from the pan.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bring it to room temperature before serving.

What should I do if my cake sticks to the pan?

Ensure you grease the pan well before adding the cake mixture. If it does stick, gently run a knife around the edges to loosen it.

How can I make a gluten-free version?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Just ensure that other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Conclusion

Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a timeless dessert that beautifully combines sweet and tangy flavors with a moist cake. Perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy each slice and share the joy of this classic treat with friends and family!