Introduction
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful retro dessert that combines the tropical sweetness of caramelized pineapple with a moist, buttery cake. This classic recipe not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also brings a nostalgic charm to any gathering. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or simply an afternoon treat, this cake is a showstopper that will impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
– 150g unsalted butter, softened
– 200g granulated sugar
– 100g brown sugar
– 3 eggs
– 250g all-purpose flour
– 2 tsp baking powder
– ½ tsp salt
– 120ml milk
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1 can (425g) pineapple rings, drained
– 10 maraschino cherries
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 8 servings
Directions
1. Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a 23cm (9-inch) round cake pan.
2. In the prepared pan, melt 50g of butter and sprinkle 100g of brown sugar evenly over it. Arrange the pineapple rings over the sugar and place cherries in the centers of each ring.
3. In a mixing bowl, beat together 100g of butter and 200g of granulated sugar until creamy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
4. In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk. Mix until just combined.
5. Pour the batter over the pineapple layer in the pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 40–45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate. Serve warm or at room temperature for a delightful experience.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). This ensures that when you bake the cake, it cooks evenly. While the oven heats up, take a moment to grease a 23cm (9-inch) round cake pan to prevent the cake from sticking.
Step 2: Prepare the Pineapple Base
In the prepared cake pan, melt 50g of butter until it’s completely liquid. Sprinkle 100g of brown sugar evenly over the melted butter, creating a sweet base that will caramelize as the cake bakes. Next, arrange the drained pineapple rings on top of the sugar, making sure to cover the base well. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring, adding a pop of color and sweetness.
Step 3: Make the Cake Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine 100g of softened butter with 200g of granulated sugar. Beat them together until the mixture is light and creamy, filling your kitchen with a delightful buttery aroma. Add the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Finish by stirring in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 250g of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This dry mixture will help your cake rise and provide the right texture.
Step 5: Blend Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with 120ml of milk. Begin with a bit of the dry mixture, then pour in some milk, continuing to alternate until everything is combined. Mix until just combined to avoid overworking the batter, which can lead to a dense cake.
Step 6: Pour and Bake
Carefully pour the batter over the pineapple and sugar layer in the cake pan, using a spatula to spread it out evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. You’ll know the cake is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, indicating a perfectly baked treat.
Step 7: Cool and Invert
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This waiting period helps ease the cake out of the pan. After cooling, carefully invert the cake onto a plate. The gorgeous caramelized pineapple rings should now be on top, creating a beautiful presentation.
Step 8: Serve
This pineapple upside-down cake can be served warm or at room temperature. Each slice reveals the glossy, sweet pineapple on top with a moist and buttery cake beneath. Enjoy this retro dessert at any gathering or simply as a delightful treat for yourself!
Notes
Ingredient Adjustments
You can substitute the granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a unique flavor. Additionally, using fresh pineapple instead of canned can enhance the freshness of the dish.
Baking Time Variations
Baking times may vary depending on your oven. Always start checking for doneness a few minutes earlier than the suggested time.
Storage Suggestions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The cake can also be frozen for longer storage; just thaw it at room temperature before serving.
Warm Up for Comfort
This cake tastes delightful when served warm from the oven or gently reheated in the microwave for a cozy dessert experience. Adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the enjoyment!
Cook techniques
Melted Butter Technique
Using melted butter to create the base layer in the cake pan helps to achieve that perfect caramelization when combined with brown sugar, giving the cake its signature flavor.
Creaming Butter and Sugar
Creaming softened butter with granulated sugar creates a fluffy texture that adds air to the batter, resulting in a light cake. Be sure to beat until the mixture is pale and creamy.
Alternating Dry and Wet Ingredients
When mixing flour, baking powder, and salt with the batter, alternate adding these dry ingredients with milk. This helps to maintain a smooth texture and avoids overmixing, which can result in a tough cake.
Inverting the Cake
After baking, allow the cake to cool slightly before inverting it onto a plate. This step helps to prevent the caramelized layer from sticking to the pan, ensuring it will come out beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is best served warm or at room temperature. Pair it with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
FAQ
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple can be used! Just slice it into rings and ensure that they are adequately drained after cooking to avoid excess moisture.
How can I store leftovers?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days, or refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I substitute the eggs in this recipe?
Yes, you can use egg substitutes such as unsweetened applesauce (1/4 cup per egg), mashed banana, or commercial egg replacers.
What if my cake sinks in the middle?
A sinking cake can result from underbaking, excessive moisture, or overmixing the batter. Ensure that the cake is fully baked and allow it to cool properly before inverting.
Can I make the cake in advance?
Absolutely! You can make the cake a day ahead, just make sure to store it properly. The flavors can meld, making it taste even better the next day.
Conclusion
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a classic dessert that brings a nostalgic charm to any gathering. Its combination of sweet caramelized pineapple and fluffy cake creates a delightful balance of flavors and textures. This easy-to-follow recipe ensures that you can create a stunning centerpiece for your dessert table while enjoying the delicious taste of this retro treat. Perfect for celebrations, family gatherings, or simply as a sweet indulgence, this cake is sure to impress everyone with its vibrant presentation and mouthwatering flavor.
Crushed Pineapple Cake
Try substituting pineapple rings with crushed pineapple for a different texture. Combine the crushed pineapple into the batter for a more integrated pineapple flavor throughout the cake.
Coconut Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Add shredded coconut to the cake batter for a tropical twist. The coconut will enhance the overall flavor and offer a delightful contrast to the pineapple.
Cherry Almond Cake
Incorporate almond extract into the batter and top the cake with sliced almonds along with maraschino cherries for a nutty and fruity combination that elevates the traditional recipe.
Spiced Pineapple Cake
Add cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the batter to introduce warm spices, creating a cozy flavor profile that perfectly complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
Chocolate Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Use chocolate cake mix instead of the vanilla cake base for a rich, chocolatey version. The sweet pineapple topping pairs surprisingly well with chocolate flavors.
Berry-Mixed Upside-Down Cake
Replace the pineapple with a mix of berries such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries. This will add a vibrant color and delicious tangy flavor to the cake.
Maple-Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Substitute brown sugar with maple syrup in the caramel layer for a unique twist. The maple flavor will enhance the caramelization of the pineapple and add depth to the dessert.
