Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a classic dessert that has stood the test of time. Its vibrant presentation of caramelized pineapple rings topped with sweet cherries is as eye-catching as its flavor is irresistible. This cake is perfect for any occasion, from family dinners to festive celebrations. Its moist texture and tangy-sweet topping will leave your guests craving more. In this article, we’ll guide you through the steps to make this delightful dessert, complete with preparation and cooking times, so you can bake it to perfection.

Preparation Time 

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Cooling Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 8 slices

Ingredients

For the Topping:

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 6-8 pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
• Maraschino cherries (optional, for garnish)

For the Cake:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp baking soda
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup pineapple juice (reserved from canned pineapples or fresh)
• 1/2 cup sour cream or buttermilk

Instructions

1. Prepare the Topping:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Pour the melted butter into a 9-inch round cake pan, ensuring the bottom is evenly coated.
• Sprinkle the brown sugar over the butter to create a caramel base.
• Arrange the pineapple rings in a single layer on top of the sugar. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring for a pop of color. Set the pan aside.

2. Mix the Dry Ingredients:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures an even distribution of the leavening agents, giving your cake a consistent rise.

3. Cream the Butter and Sugar:

• In a large mixing bowl, use an electric mixer to beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes). This step is crucial for achieving a tender cake texture.

4. Add the Wet Ingredients:

• Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Scrape down the sides of the bowl to ensure everything is well incorporated.
• Mix in the sour cream (or buttermilk) and pineapple juice alternately with the dry ingredients. Start and end with the dry ingredients for a smoother batter.

5. Assemble and Bake:

• Pour the batter over the prepared pineapple topping, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
• Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then carefully invert it onto a serving plate. Allow it to cool completely before slicing.

Tips for Success

• Pineapple Choices: Fresh pineapple can add a more intense flavor, but canned rings are convenient and work perfectly.
• Caramel Perfection: Ensure the butter and sugar evenly coat the pan for a flawless caramel layer.
• Serving Suggestion: Serve the cake slightly warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence.

The Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is more than just a dessert; it’s a showstopper that combines nostalgic flavors with a beautiful presentation. With its caramelized pineapple topping and fluffy cake base, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or just to satisfy a sweet tooth, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Take the time to prepare it, savor the process, and enjoy the delicious rewards with family and friends. Happy baking!