Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

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Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delightful and nostalgic dessert that brings a burst of tropical flavors to any occasion. This cake is not only visually appealing, with its caramelized pineapple rings and bright cherries, but it also has a unique crown of sweetness that melts in your mouth. It’s the perfect combination of soft, buttery cake and juicy, tangy fruit, making it an ideal choice for gatherings, family dinners, or simply a cozy night in. In this step-by-step recipe, we invite you to create this scrumptious treat in the comfort of your own kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a fantastic choice for several reasons. Firstly, the preparation is incredibly easy, with minimal ingredients that you likely already have in your pantry. Perfect for bakers of all levels, this cake is sure to impress family and friends while requiring very little time in the kitchen. The baking process fills your home with enticing aromas that evoke comforting childhood memories. Even those who might not consider themselves seasoned bakers will find joy in creating this crowd-pleasing dessert!

Ingredients

For this mouthwatering Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple rings, drained: These juicy, tropical slices provide a sweet, tangy base that contrasts beautifully with the buttery cake.
• 10 maraschino cherries: These bright red delights add a pop of color and sweetness that complements the pineapple.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened: This creamy ingredient gives the cake its tender texture and rich flavor.
• 1 cup granulated sugar: The sugar sweetens the batter and contributes to the caramelization of the pineapple.
• 1 cup all-purpose flour: A staple for any cake, providing structure to the fluffy texture.
• 1 tsp baking powder: This leavening agent ensures your cake rises beautifully and remains light.
• 2 large eggs: Binding the ingredients together, eggs add moisture and richness to the cake.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: This aromatic essence enhances the overall flavor profile with a warm, comforting note.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat Your Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly. Grease a round cake pan and sprinkle a generous amount of brown sugar at the bottom, setting the stage for a luscious caramel layer.

2. Arrange the Pineapple: Carefully arrange the drained pineapple rings over the brown sugar in the pan. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring to add a cheerful touch!

3. Cream Butter and Sugar: In a mixing bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for developing a soft cake texture.

4. Add Eggs and Vanilla: Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for an inviting aroma.

5. Combine Dry Ingredients: In another bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and baking powder. This simple mix will enhance the cake’s structure and ensure it rises perfectly.

6. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients: Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until the batter is smooth and free of lumps. Do not overmix! A few gentle folds will do just fine.

7. Pour the Batter: Carefully pour the batter over the arranged pineapple rings, spreading it evenly to cover all the fruit.

8. Bake to Perfection: Place the cake in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

9. Cool and Invert: Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Afterward, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate to reveal the gorgeous pineapple topping.

Tips & Tricks

• Use Fresh Pineapple: If you prefer, you can substitute canned pineapple for fresh. Just slice it evenly and make sure it’s well-drained.
• Add a Pinch of Cinnamon: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon to the flour mixture. This will enhance the cake’s overall warmth and depth.
• Decorate with Nuts: A sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts over the pineapple before adding the batter can take this cake to the next level, adding a delightful crunch.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is best enjoyed slightly warm or at room temperature. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast, or pair it with whipped cream and fresh mint leaves for an elegant touch. It’s perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or just because—because who needs a reason to indulge in sweet comfort?

Nutritional Information

Each slice of Pineapple Upside-Down Cake contains approximately 250 calories, with about 10g of fat, 36g of carbohydrates, and 2g of protein. While it’s a lovely treat, moderation is key to maintaining balance in your diet. Enjoy it as part of a well-rounded meal with fresh fruit and protein!

Storing Tips & Variations

Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also refrigerate it to extend its freshness for up to a week. To freeze, wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

For a fun twist, try adding coconut flakes to the batter or topping it with toasted coconut after baking! You can also use different fruits like peaches or cherries for an exciting variation.

Conclusion

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a timeless dessert that holds the power to create sweet memories in every bite. We encourage you to try this easy, simple recipe and share your experiences with family and friends. Whether you’re baking for a special occasion or simply indulging in a comforting slice at home, this cake is sure to bring a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.

FAQs

1. Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can add a great texture and taste. Just make sure to slice it evenly and drain it thoroughly.

2. How do I know when the cake is done?
You can test if the cake is done by inserting a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, it’s ready to be taken out of the oven.

3. Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! You can bake it a day in advance. Just be sure to cover it well to keep it moist, and let it sit at room temperature until you’re ready to serve.

4. Is there a gluten-free version of this cake?
Of course! You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking mix. Just ensure that the other ingredients are also gluten-free.

5. Can this recipe be doubled?
Definitely! If you’re making for a large gathering, you can double the ingredients and use a larger cake pan, adjusting the bake time accordingly.

Pineapple Upside-Down Cake

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A delightful dessert featuring caramelized pineapple rings and maraschino cherries, perfect for any occasion.

• Author: catherine
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 can (20 oz) pineapple rings, drained
• 10 maraschino cherries
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 tsp baking powder
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a round cake pan. Sprinkle brown sugar at the bottom.
2. Arrange the pineapple rings over the brown sugar and place a cherry in the center of each ring.
3. Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
5. In another bowl, whisk flour and baking powder. Gradually mix dry ingredients into the wet mixture until smooth.
6. Pour the batter over the arranged pineapple rings.
7. Bake for 30-35 minutes until golden brown and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a serving plate to reveal the pineapple topping.

Notes

Use fresh pineapple for better texture or add a pinch of cinnamon for extra flavor. Serve with vanilla ice cream for a delightful contrast.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 14g
• Sodium: 200mg
• Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 2g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

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