Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe: Classic Simplicity

Fruit-forward and delightfully simple, this Pineapple Upside Down Cake captures both eye and palate. Perfect for dessert or as a sweet treat any day. Minimalist ingredients combined thoughtfully deliver wonderful taste with a touch of nostalgia.

Why This Recipe Works

• Simple pantry ingredients.
• Perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.
• Effortless preparation with a stunning presentation.

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice, drained
• 10 maraschino cherries
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/3 cup vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 large egg

Equipment Needed

• 9-inch round cake pan
• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Spatula

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F. Pour the melted unsalted butter into the 9-inch round cake pan, ensuring even distribution by swirling it around the base. Sprinkle the packed brown sugar evenly over the melted butter. Arrange the pineapple slices over the sugar. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring. Ensure each piece fits snugly for a complete coverage.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt. Whisk the mixture until thoroughly combined without any clumps. This blend forms the base of your cake batter. Ensuring even mixing prevents lumps from forming. Consistently sifted dry ingredients make a finer cake texture. Set aside once thoroughly mixed.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, whisk together the vegetable oil, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Add the large egg and mix thoroughly until well combined. The liquid should be homogeneous, with no separation of the oil and milk. These ingredients add moisture and richness to the cake, ensuring a tender crumb when baked.

Step 4: Form the Batter

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the bowl of wet ingredients using a spatula. Mix until fully integrated, but don’t overdo it, as overmixing can lead to a dense cake. Stop once no dry streaks of flour remain. This smooth batter should flow seamlessly, indicating readiness. Scrape the bowl’s sides to gather any residual mixture.

Step 5: Bake the Cake

Pour the batter over the arranged pineapple and cherries in the pan. Smooth the top with your spatula to ensure even baking. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 45 minutes. You will know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness. Let it cool for about 5 minutes post-bake.

Step 6: Turn Out the Cake

Place a serving plate over the pan. Invert the pan promptly but carefully to release the cake, letting gravity help. Tap gently if it resists budging. The caramelized topping should remain intact above the cake. Allow it to cool before slicing. This cool-down intensifies flavors and solidifies the structure for satisfying servings.

Tips and Tricks

Ensure even baking by spreading the batter uniformly. If your brown sugar is hard, soften it by microwaving with a dish. For an evenly caramelized top, press the sugar mixture firmly into the butter layer. Use parchment paper underneath for easier cake removal.

Recipe Variations

• Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts such as pecans for a crunchy texture.
• Incorporate a teaspoon of almond extract to enhance the cake’s flavor profile.
• Substitute canned pears for pineapple for a unique twist.
• Use coconut oil instead of vegetable oil for a tropical flair.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use fresh pineapple? Yes, fresh pineapple works well. Ensure slices are of even thickness for consistent baking results. The natural juice will caramelize similarly, but the freshness adds an element of zest to the cake.

2. What can I substitute for maraschino cherries? Fresh cherries or other berries, such as raspberries, are great substitutes. Ensure they are pitted to avoid any inconvenience. These alternatives offer a fresh twist and an explosion of natural flavors.

3. How long can I store the cake? The cake can stay fresh at room temperature for 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and flavor. Before serving, allow it to reach room temperature.

4. Can I make this in a rectangular pan? Yes, a 9×13 inch rectangular pan also works. Adjust baking time by starting checks at 30 minutes. A slightly lower baking time may be needed for even cooking across the larger surface.

Summary

This Pineapple Upside Down Cake recipe is a timeless favorite, offering sweet-tart flavors with minimal effort. Simple to prepare, it’s a perfect dessert solution that pleases everyone.