Name: Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Ingredients: 10 slices Pineapple slices (patted dry with a paper towel); 7 pieces Maraschino cherries (patted dry with a paper towel); 4 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted); ⅓ cup Light brown sugar; 1 ½ cups All-purpose flour; 1 ½ teaspoons Baking powder; ¼ teaspoon Salt; 6 tablespoons Unsalted butter (melted); ¾ cup Granulated sugar; ¼ cup Light brown sugar; 2 large Eggs (at room temperature); 1 ½ teaspoons Vanilla extract; ⅔ cup Buttermilk

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There’s something utterly nostalgic about a Pineapple Upside Down Cake. It takes me back to family gatherings on warm summer afternoons, where the sweet aroma of caramelized pineapple wafted through the air. This delightful cake, with its beautifully arranged pineapple slices and cherries, not only looks stunning but also tastes incredible. Each slice reveals a moist, buttery crumb that pairs perfectly with the tangy sweetness of the pineapple. As I pull this cake from the oven, I can hardly wait to flip it over and reveal that gorgeous topping! Whether it’s a special occasion or just a comforting treat at home, this cake always brings a smile to everyone’s face.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
1 hr 5 mins

Prep Time:
20 mins

Cook Time:
45 mins

Difficulty:
Medium

Calories:
350 kcal

Protein:
5 g

Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP

Fat:
15 g

Tools Used:
Frying Pan, Wooden Spoon, Oven, Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Mixing Bowl, Baking Sheet

Why We Love This Pineapple Upside Down Cake

It’s a Showstopper

One of the first things that strikes you about a Pineapple Upside Down Cake is its visual appeal. The vibrant yellow of the pineapple, contrasted with the rich brown sugar glaze, makes it an edible centerpiece. Serving this cake at any gathering instantly elevates the occasion, and guests can’t help but admire its beauty before diving in.

Flavor Harmony

The combination of sweet and tangy flavors is truly what makes this cake special. The natural sweetness of the pineapple complements the buttery richness of the cake itself, topped off with a hint of caramel from the brown sugar. The flavors mingle beautifully, creating a mouthful that’s both satisfying and refreshing.

Simple Yet Impressive

You don’t need a culinary degree to achieve a masterpiece with this recipe. The Pineapple Upside Down Cake is straightforward to make, yet the end result is impressive. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a cake that tastes like it came from a bakery. It’s a fantastic way to showcase your baking skills without overwhelming yourself.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, hosting a potluck, or wanting to enjoy a homemade dessert, this cake fits the bill. It’s versatile enough to be served at casual family dinners or elegant gatherings. No matter the occasion, this cake will be a crowd-pleaser!

Comfort in Every Bite

There’s an element of comfort that comes with a slice of this cake. Each bite transports you to a simpler time filled with laughter, love, and good food. It’s the kind of dessert that evokes memories, and each time I make it, I share a little piece of my history.

Make Ahead and Store

What’s more, this cake can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for busy hosts. You can bake it a day in advance and simply warm it up before serving. It holds its flavor beautifully, ensuring that every bite tastes as fresh as the first.

Ingredients Overview for Pineapple Upside Down Cake

The ingredients for a Pineapple Upside Down Cake are as delightful as the cake itself. Each component plays a vital role in achieving that perfect balance of flavors. You’ll find that the star of the show is undoubtedly the pineapple, which brings a sweet and tangy essence. The butter and sugar create a rich base, while the flour and baking powder give the cake its structure. It’s a combination that works harmoniously to create the ultimate indulgence.

Pineapple slices: 10 slices, patted dry with a paper towel; these are the stars of the show, offering sweetness and moisture.
Maraschino cherries: 7 cherries, patted dry with a paper towel; they add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
Unsalted butter: 4 tablespoons, melted; this adds richness to the cake.
Light brown sugar: ⅓ cup; this ingredient is crucial for the caramelized topping.
All-purpose flour: 1 ½ cups; it provides structure to the cake.
Baking powder: 1 ½ teaspoons; this helps the cake rise.
Salt: ¼ teaspoon; enhances flavor.
Granulated sugar: ¾ cup; sweetens the cake itself.
Large eggs: 2, at room temperature; they help bind the ingredients together.
Vanilla extract: 1 ½ teaspoons; adds a warm, comforting flavor.
Buttermilk: ⅔ cup; gives moisture and a slight tang.

How to Cook Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Cooking a Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a fun and rewarding process. You’ll love watching it transform from a simple batter into a beautifully golden cake with caramelized fruit on top. Follow these steps to ensure your cake comes out perfectly every time.

Preheat your oven to 350°F. This step is crucial for creating a perfectly baked cake. While the oven heats, take a moment to prepare your cake pan. Spray a 9-inch cake pan, at least 2 inches deep, with nonstick cooking spray. To further prevent sticking, line the bottom with parchment paper. This will ensure your cake releases easily once it’s baked.
Next, cut three of the pineapple slices in half. This will help to create a visually appealing design on the edges of your cake. In the bottom of the prepared cake pan, pour the 4 tablespoons of melted butter, making sure to tilt the pan to coat the entire bottom. Sprinkle the ⅓ cup of brown sugar evenly over the butter, creating a sweet caramel layer that the pineapple will sit on.
Now, arrange the whole, dried pineapple slices over the sugar, and place the halved slices upright around the edges of the pan. The maraschino cherries can be added in the center of each pineapple slice, adding an extra burst of color and flavor. It’s like creating a beautiful edible art piece!
In a small bowl, stir together the 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. This mixture is the foundation of your cake. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 6 tablespoons of unsalted butter, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, and the remaining ¼ cup of brown sugar until well-combined. This process helps to create a light and fluffy texture.
Next, whisk in the 2 eggs and 1 ½ teaspoons of vanilla until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Gradually mix in one-third of the flour mixture, followed by one-third of the buttermilk. Repeat this process until all ingredients are combined, ensuring a smooth batter. Be careful not to over-mix, as this can lead to a dense cake.
Once your batter is well-mixed, pour it evenly over the arranged pineapples in the pan. Don’t worry if some of the pineapples are still visible; they will create a lovely presentation once flipped. Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye on it! A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it’s done.
To prevent the top from browning too quickly, tent the cake with foil halfway through the baking time. Some of the cake may stick to the foil, but that’s okay; it won’t be visible once flipped. After baking, let the cake cool in the pan for at least 10 minutes.
Run a knife around the edges of the cake to help it release from the pan. Carefully place a serving platter over the top of the cake and flip it upside down. Remove the parchment paper, and let the cake cool completely.
Once cool, slice and serve your beautiful Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Enjoy each moist, flavorful slice!

Things Worth Knowing

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your oven is truly at 350°F before placing the cake inside. An oven thermometer can be a great tool for accuracy.
Cooling Time: Allow the cake to cool in the pan briefly, but don’t wait too long before flipping it. This helps maintain the integrity of the pineapple topping.
Be Gentle: When flipping the cake, do it slowly to avoid breaking the delicate topping. Use a large, flat serving platter for a successful flip!
Ingredient Temperature: Make sure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and a more even bake.

Change It Up

If you’re looking to add a personal touch to your Pineapple Upside Down Cake, there are plenty of options to consider. Here are some great ideas to customize your cake and make it your own!

Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and delicious.
Freezing: Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature before serving to enjoy them just as fresh.
Flavor Variations: Experiment with other fruits! Try using peaches or cherries instead of pineapple for a different flavor profile.
Add Spices: Introducing a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter can give an extra warmth and depth to the flavor.
Top it Off: Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an indulgent treat.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts over the pineapple for added texture and flavor.

How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Serving a Pineapple Upside Down Cake can be just as fun as baking it. There are several ways to enjoy this delicious dessert, ensuring it shines at any occasion. Here are some creative ideas:

Warm or Cold: This cake can be served warm from the oven or chilled. Both options are delightful!
Garnish Ideas: Top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a richer dessert experience.
Perfect for Parties: It’s fantastic for birthday parties, summer picnics, or a cheerful dessert at family gatherings. Its vibrant presentation is sure to impress.
Pairing Suggestions: This cake pairs wonderfully with coffee or tea, making it a perfect afternoon treat. The richness of these beverages complements the sweet, caramelized flavors beautifully.
Storing Leftovers: If you have any leftovers, keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. This makes it easy to grab a slice whenever the craving hits!
Seasonal Occasions: Although perfect for summer, this cake can also brighten up holiday tables. Its warm flavors and colors make it a festive choice for any holiday gathering.

FAQ

Absolutely! Using fresh **pineapple** can add a wonderful, vibrant flavor to your Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Just make sure to slice and pat it dry well before using it in the recipe. Fresh **pineapple** tends to be juicier, so drying it off helps prevent the cake from becoming soggy. The added freshness will elevate the cake’s taste even more!

To store any leftover Pineapple Upside Down Cake, place it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature, unwrapped, for the best results.

Yes, you can definitely make your Pineapple Upside Down Cake ahead of time! It holds up well, so feel free to bake it a day in advance. Just let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, you can warm it up in the oven for a few minutes to bring back that fresh-baked taste.

This cake pairs wonderfully with a variety of accompaniments. A scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream on top can enhance the flavors beautifully. Additionally, serving it with coffee or tea makes for a delightful treat. You could even experiment with toppings like caramel sauce for a decadent twist!

Conclusion

The Pineapple Upside Down Cake is truly a cherished recipe that combines nostalgia, flavor, and presentation. Its sweet and tangy notes, along with the beautiful caramelization of the toppings, create a dessert that’s hard to resist. I encourage you to try making it yourself; it’s a wonderful way to create lasting memories with friends and family. So gather your ingredients and let the baking begin!