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 brown sugar; 1 can (20 oz pineapple slices, drained); Maraschino cherries; 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1/2 cup milk; 2 large eggs; 2 tsp baking powder; 1 tsp vanilla extract

Indulge in the tropical delight of pineapple upside down cake, a classic dessert that impresses with its beautiful presentation and irresistible flavors. The succulent pineapple, caramelized to perfection, pairs beautifully with a buttery cake, creating a harmonious balance of sweetness. Whether it’s for a special occasion or a casual gathering, this cake is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe that will transport you to a sunny paradise with each bite!

Ingredients

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

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe serves 8 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 40 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Per serving (1 slice): Calories: 280, Protein: 3g, Carbohydrates: 42g, Fat: 12g, Fiber: 1g, Sugar: 22g. This nutritional information is based on a single serving.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Melt the butter in a 9-inch round cake pan.
3. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the melted butter.
4. Arrange pineapple slices over the brown sugar.
5. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
6. In a mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
7. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and vanilla extract.
8. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
9. Pour the batter over the pineapple and cherries.
10. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version. Additionally, fresh pineapple can be used instead of canned for a more vibrant flavor.

Serving and Pairings

Pineapple upside down cake pairs wonderfully with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. You can also serve it with a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra sweet touch.

Storage and Reheating

Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. To reheat, warm individual slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds. This cake can be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s well-wrapped.

Cooking Mistakes

Not preheating the oven can lead to uneven baking.
Using cold ingredients can affect the cake’s texture.
Overmixing the batter can result in a dense cake.
Not allowing the cake to cool before inverting can cause it to break.
Forgetting to grease the pan can lead to sticking.

Helpful Tips

Use fresh pineapples for a more intense flavor.
Let the cake cool for 10 minutes before inverting.
Experiment with different fruits, like peaches or cherries.
Serve with a scoop of ice cream for a delightful treat.

FAQs

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Yes, fresh pineapple can be used for a more natural and vibrant flavor. Just slice and prepare it similarly to canned pineapple.

How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?

Make sure to thoroughly grease the pan with butter and dust it with a bit of flour before adding the batter.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?

Absolutely! The cake can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container. Just reheat before serving.

What should I do if my cake is too dense?

Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature and avoid overmixing the batter to achieve a lighter texture.

Can I substitute the butter?

Yes, you can use margarine or a dairy-free butter alternative for a different flavor or dietary needs.

Conclusion

Pineapple upside down cake is a delightful dessert that brings a taste of tropical paradise to your table. With its stunning presentation and sweet, caramelized flavors, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Whether enjoyed warm or chilled, it’s a treat that everyone will love. Try making it today and enjoy a slice of happiness!