🛒 Ingredients
For the Topping:
- 🍍 1 can (20 oz) pineapple rings, drained (reserve 1/4 cup juice)
- 🍒 10 maraschino cherries
- 🧈 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 🍬 1/2 cup brown sugar
For the Cake:
- 🌾 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 🧂 2 tsp baking powder
- 🧂 1/4 tsp salt
- 🧈 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 🍬 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 🥚 2 large eggs
- 🌿 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 🥛 1/2 cup milk
- 🍍 1/4 cup reserved pineapple juice
🍳 Instructions
Prepare the Topping
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Make the Caramel Base:
- Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the cake pan and evenly sprinkle the brown sugar on top.
- Arrange the Pineapple and Cherries:
- Place the pineapple rings in a single layer over the brown sugar mixture. Add a maraschino cherry to the center of each pineapple ring.
Make the Cake Batter
- Combine Dry Ingredients:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Cream the Butter and Sugar:
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes.
- Add Eggs and Vanilla:
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.
- Incorporate the Dry and Wet Ingredients:
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with the milk and pineapple juice. Begin and end with the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined.
Assemble and Bake
- Pour the Batter:
- Carefully pour the batter over the pineapple and brown sugar layer in the cake pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake:
- Bake for 40–45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Invert:
- Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Run a knife around the edges, then invert the cake onto a serving plate.
💡 Tips and Variations
- 🍫 Chocolate Twist: Add a drizzle of melted chocolate over the top for extra indulgence.
- 🥥 Coconut Flavor: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flair.
- 🍍 Fresh Pineapple: Use fresh pineapple slices instead of canned for a vibrant flavor.
- 🧂 Salted Caramel: Sprinkle a pinch of sea salt into the topping for a sweet-salty balance.
🍹 Serving Suggestions
Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect dessert pairing.
What Makes This Recipe Special
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a nostalgic classic that combines buttery caramelized pineapple with a soft, tender cake. Its tropical flavors and stunning presentation make it a favorite for family gatherings, potlucks, and special occasions.
