Transport yourself to a tropical paradise with this delightful Pineapple Upside-down Cake recipe.
A classic dessert that dates back decades, this cake features a caramelized pineapple topping nestled atop a tender vanilla cake.
With its vibrant colors and irresistible flavors, Pineapple Upside-down Cake is sure to brighten any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering, potluck, or special celebration.
Follow along to learn how to create this timeless treat in your own kitchen!
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices in juice, drained
- Maraschino cherries, drained
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (reserved from canned pineapple)
- Whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, for serving (optional)
Equipment
9-inch round cake pan
Mixing bowls
Electric mixer
Spatula
Cooling rack
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in the cake pan and place it in the oven to melt.
Once the butter has melted, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter in the cake pan.
Arrange the pineapple slices over the brown sugar, placing a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
In a separate large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the pineapple juice, mixing until just combined.
Carefully spread the batter over the pineapple slices in the cake pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Bake in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
Remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
Place a serving plate upside down over the cake pan, then carefully invert the cake onto the plate. Remove the cake pan.
Allow the cake to cool completely before serving. Serve slices of Pineapple Upside-down Cake with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, if desired.
Nutritional Facts
Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on portion size and specific ingredients used.
Serving Size: 1 slice (1/12 of cake)
Calories: 270 kcal
Total Fat: 11g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 60mg
Sodium: 160mg
Total Carbohydrates: 41g
Dietary Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 26g
Protein: 3g
Health Benefits
Pineapple Upside-down Cake offers more than just sweet indulgence—it also provides some nutritional benefits.
Pineapple is a good source of vitamin C, manganese, and bromelain, an enzyme that may have anti-inflammatory properties and aid in digestion.
While this cake is best enjoyed in moderation due to its sugar and fat content, incorporating fruit into desserts can be a delicious way to increase your intake of essential nutrients.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned pineapple?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple slices instead of canned pineapple.
Simply slice a fresh pineapple into rounds and use them in place of the canned pineapple slices.
Can I make Pineapple Upside-down Cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Pineapple Upside-down Cake ahead of time.
Store the cooled cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Can I use a different type of fruit for the topping?
Yes, you can customize the topping of your Pineapple Upside-down Cake by using other fruits such as peaches, apricots, or cherries.
Can I freeze Pineapple Upside-down Cake?
Yes, you can freeze Pineapple Upside-down Cake.
Wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container or bag.
Freeze for up to 3 months.
Can I use a different type of cake batter for this recipe?
While the traditional Pineapple Upside-down Cake recipe uses a vanilla cake batter, you can experiment with other cake flavors such as yellow cake or coconut cake if desired.