Description
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a retro classic that combines buttery caramelized pineapple, bright cherries, and a tender vanilla cake. Perfect for celebrations or casual gatherings, this dessert is as beautiful as it is delicious.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Topping:
- Cooking spray, for greasing the pan
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1 (8 oz) can pineapple rings, drained and patted dry
- 8–10 maraschino cherries
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 8 tbsp unsalted butter (1 stick), softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare the Topping
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Spray a 9-inch round cake pan with cooking spray.
- Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the pan, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle the brown sugar over the butter.
- Arrange the pineapple rings in a single layer over the sugar and place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring.
- Make the Cake Batter
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar with a hand or stand mixer until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition.
- Mix in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Assemble the Cake
- Pour the cake batter over the pineapple topping in the pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula.
- Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
- Bake the Cake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Invert and Serve
- Run a knife around the edges of the cake to loosen it.
- Place a serving plate over the pan and carefully invert the cake onto the plate.
- Let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
- Pat Pineapple Dry: Ensures a caramelized topping without excess moisture.
- Room-Temperature Ingredients: Helps create a smooth batter for a tender cake.
- Cool Before Inverting: Prevents the cake from breaking apart.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American