Pineapple upside-down cake is a delightful and visually appealing dessert with a caramelized pineapple topping and a moist, fluffy cake base. It’s perfect for any occasion and sure to impress!
Ingredients (for 8 servings)
For the topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices, drained (reserve juice)
- 6 maraschino cherries (optional)
For the cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the reserved juice)
- 1/4 cup milk
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the topping:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a 9-inch round cake pan, melt the butter over low heat on the stovetop. Once melted, sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.
- Arrange the pineapple slices over the sugar mixture in a circular pattern. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice (optional). Set aside.
2️⃣ Make the cake batter:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together until light and fluffy (about 2-3 minutes).
- Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the dry ingredients alternately with the pineapple juice and milk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
3️⃣ Assemble the cake:
- Pour the cake batter over the pineapple topping in the prepared pan. Spread the batter evenly to cover the pineapples.
4️⃣ Bake the cake:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then run a knife around the edges to loosen it.
5️⃣ Invert and serve:
- Carefully invert the cake onto a serving plate while it’s still warm. Let it cool slightly before slicing and serving.
Enjoy!
This pineapple upside-down cake is a sweet, tropical treat with a beautiful caramelized topping. Serve it as a dessert for a family gathering or any special occasion!
