What is a cake? What is the Pineapple Upside Down Cake recipe? Since I was knee-high to a grasshopper, my family gathering. Forget fancy layer cakes and complicated soufflés – this baby is all about simple ingredients, big flavor. What are some of the best flavors, and that undeniable “wow Is it like sunshine on a plate? How do you know that a classic chocolate chip cookie hits the spot? Is this the cake version of that? Once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s been a family favorite for generations. My grandma’s secret Pineapple Upside-Down Cake recipe is so good.
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What is a Pineapple Upside Down Cake?
Think of it as a retro dessert with tropical twist. When you flip a cake out of the pan, you’re greeted with crumbs. This cake is baked upside down. Is it really that good? glistening caramelized topping of pineapple rings and maraschino cherries. The cake itself is usually a simple, buttery vanilla cake that soaks up all that glorious pineapple flavor. What is the name of a cake upside down? What is the star of the show? Caramelized fruit. My grandma always said it was the perfect cake for folks who didn’t like frosting because the cake was so moist. What is the best topping for a salad? And honestly, she wasn’t wrong!
Why I love this recipe?
Where do I start?flavorIs this world out of the world? What is the tangy sweetness from the pineapple, the rich caramel notes from browned butter and the sweet almonds? What is the difference between the sugar, and the soft, comforting crumb of the cake itself? Is it a party in your mouth? I always sneak a bite of caramelized pineapple while it’s cooling (don’t tell anyone!). What I love most about this recipe is how surprisingly delicious it is.simpleDon’t let the caramelized topping intimidate you – it’s really just a matter of melting butter and serving. How do you put sugar in a pan? The batter comes together in minutes, and the whole thing bakes in under an hour. Is it budget friendly? Pineapple can be found for fairly reasonable prices, and the rest are simple pantry staples. How do I make a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake?versatileServe it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an easy brunch, or slice it up for supper. I’ve been known to enjoy a slice with my morning coffee. If you like coffee cake, you’ll definitely love this. I think it stands apart because it is beautiful and fairly easy to make.
How do I make a Pineapple Upside Down Cake?
Quick Overview
This Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe is all about building layers of flavor. You start by creating a caramel base in the pan, arrange pineapple rings and cherries on top, pour the cake batter over, and bake! The magic happens when you flip it after baking, revealing that gorgeous caramelized topping. Don’t worry; it’s much easier than it sounds! We’ll walk through it step-by-step, and you’ll be a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe pro in no time.
Ingredients
For the Caramel Topping:
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
* 3/4 cup packed light brown sugar – I always use light blue. Is dark brown a good caramel flavor?
* 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple rings, drained – Make sure to drain them well! Excess juice will make your topping soggy.
* Maraschino cherries, halved (optional, but highly recommended!) – My grandma always said they were essential for the “festive” look.
For the Cake Batter:
* 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour – Spoon and level the flour for accurate measurement. Too much flour will result in a dry cake.
* 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
* 1/4 teaspoon salt
* 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
* 3/4 cup granulated sugar
* 2 large eggs
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Don’t skimp on the vanilla! It really enhances the flavor of the cake.
* 1/2 cup milk – I’ve even used almond milk and it worked great!
How do I follow step
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is preheating, grease a 9-inch round cake pan. You can use cooking spray or butter and flour. I prefer butter and flour; it gives the cake a nice, even crust. Make sure the pan is well-greased; otherwise, the cake might stick when you flip it!
Step 2: Make the Caramel Topping
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, stir in the brown sugar until it’s completely dissolved. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is smooth and bubbly. Be careful not to burn the caramel! Pour the caramel mixture evenly into the prepared cake pan.
Step 3: Arrange the Pineapple and Cherries
Arrange the pineapple rings in a single layer over the caramel in the pan. Place a maraschino cherry half in the center of each pineapple ring. You can also scatter a few extra cherry halves around for good measure. Get creative with your arrangement! This is what will be on top, so make it pretty!
Step 4: Make the Cake Batter
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside. How do you distribute baking powder evenly across the flour? How do I make a cake rise
Step 5: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Set aside. What is the best way to do this with an electric mixer? The mixture should be pale in color and almost doubled in volume.
Step 6: Add Eggs and Vanilla
Beat the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Make sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. If the mixture looks curdled, don’t worry! It will come together when you add the dry ingredients.
Step 7: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending. Ending with dry ingredients. Mix until well combined. Be careful not to overmix! If you overmix the flour, the gluten will develop, resulting in a tough cake.
Step 8: Pour Batter Over Topping
Gently pour the cake batter over the pineapple and cherry arrangement in the cake pan. Spread the batter evenly to cover the topping. If the batter is thick, you can use a spatula to gently spread it.
Step 9: Bake
Is it safe to bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes? Why does someone come out clean? When the cake is done, start checking for doneness around 30 minutes. Ovens vary, so it’s always best to err on the side of caution and check early.
Step 10: Cool and Invert
Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes. This allows the caramel to set slightly, which will help prevent the topping from sticking to the top. When you invert a pan, the pan is flipped. After 10 minutes, carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate. If any pineapple or cherries stick to the pan, gently remove them and place them back on top of it.
Step 11: Serve
Serve the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake warm or at room temperature. I personally love it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Is it good with whipped cream or Greek yogurt?
What to Serve It With
What do you serve with this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake?for breakfast, a simple cup of black coffee really cuts through the sweetness. If you’re feeling fancy, arrange a slice on your plate and sprig of mint for tastiness.For brunch, pair it with mimosas or sparkling rosé. A small fruit salad with berries and kiwi adds a nice contrast to the warm, caramelized flavors of kale.As dessert, the possibilities are endless! A scoop of vanilla bean ice cream is a classic choice. I also love it with a dollop of freshly whipped cream and a sprinkle of toasted coconut. For cozy snacks, nothing beats a warm slice with a glass of cold milk or a cup of herbal tea. My family always enjoys it after dinner on special occasions. My mom makes a Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe every Thanksgiving.
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe
Alright, let’s talk about some insider secrets for making this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe absolutely perfect. Caramel Creation: Don’t rush melting the butter and sugar for the caramel. Low and slow is the way to go to prevent burning. Pineapple Prep: Pat those pineapple rings dry! Extra moisture will make your cake soggy, and nobody wants that. Batter Balance: Avoid overmixing the batter. A few lumps are okay! Overmixing leads to a tough cake, and we’re going for light and fluffy here. Baking Basics: Keep a close eye on the cake while it’s baking. Ovens vary, and you want the top to be golden brown, not burnt to a crisp. Flipping Fearlessly: Let the cake cool slightly before inverting. Too hot, and it’ll fall apart. Too cold, and the caramel will stick to the pan. Cherry Choices: Feel free to experiment with different types of cherries. I’ve used Luxardo cherries for a grown-up twist. Ingredient Swaps: You can substitute the milk with buttermilk for a tangier flavor. Glaze Variations: A drizzle of rum glaze adds a boozy kick. Oven Positioning: Place the cake in the center of the oven for even baking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
Okay, so you’ve managed not to eat the entire Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe in one sitting (I’m impressed!). Now, let’s talk about storing it. Room Temperature: You can store the cake at room temperature for up to 2 days, covered tightly with plastic wrap or in an airtight container. Make sure it’s in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight. Refrigerator Storage: For longer storage, keep in the fridge. This will make it last for up to 5 days. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out. Freezer Instructions: Believe it or not, this cake freezes beautifully! Wrap individual slices in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will last for up to 2 months in the freezer. Glaze Timing Advice: If you’re planning to freeze the cake, I recommend waiting to add the glaze until after it’s thawed. Reheating: To reheat, simply warm a slice in the microwave for a few seconds, or wrap it in foil and heat it in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes. It won’t taste quite as good as fresh, but it’ll still be delicious! Make sure to consume the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe within those dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – Grandma Elsie’s Famous Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe, straight from my family’s kitchen to yours. I truly hope you give this recipe a try! It’s more than just a cake; it’s a little slice of nostalgia, a taste of sunshine, and a reminder of simple pleasures. If you enjoyed this, you might also like my recipe for classic apple pie! Happy baking! I can’t wait to hear how yours turns out. Don’t forget to leave a comment below and let me know what you think. And if you put your own spin on it, I’d love to hear about that too! Share this delicious Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe with others!
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 cup pineapple chunks packed in juice
- 1 tablespoon butter melted
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup sugar
- 1 egg egg
- 0.5 cup milk
- 0.5 cup butter melted
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt butter. Sprinkle with brown sugar and arrange pineapple slices evenly over the bottom.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together sugar, egg, and milk.
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
- Pour batter over the pineapple in the prepared pan.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.
