Classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake is the epitome of comfort dessert! This iconic cake features a golden, moist sponge topped with caramelized pineapple rings and sweet cherries, creating a perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s a nostalgic recipe that is surprisingly easy to prepare, making it an ideal treat for gatherings or a delightful end to any meal!
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients for Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Tips for Making Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Make-Ahead Instructions
- Storing Leftovers
- Freezing
- Reheating
- Serving Suggestions
- FAQs
- Try these Pineapple Upside Down Cake related recipes next!
- Easy Caramel Flan
- Classic Vanilla Pound Cake
- Moist Banana Bread
- Lemon Drizzle Cake
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Flavor Combination. The sweet and tangy pineapple combined with rich caramel flavors creates a delightful balance that is simply irresistible.
- Effortless to Make. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is straightforward and requires minimal effort.
- Perfect for Any Occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering, birthday party, or just a sweet treat, this Pineapple Upside Down Cake is sure to impress.
- Impressive Presentation. When inverted, the glistening pineapple rings and cherries create a beautiful caramelized topping that looks and tastes amazing!
Ingredients for Pineapple Upside Down Cake
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Unsalted Butter: Provides richness and moisture. Make sure it’s softened for easy mixing.
- Brown Sugar: Adds a deep, caramel flavor to the cake and helps with the glaze.
- Pineapple Rings: Canned pineapple is commonly used. You can also use fresh pineapple if preferred.
- Maraschino Cherries: Traditional garnish for a pop of color and sweetness on top.
- All-Purpose Flour: The base ingredient for the cake batter.
- Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake.
- Baking Powder: Helps the cake rise and become fluffy.
- Eggs: Provide structure and moisture in the cake.
- Vanilla Extract: Enhances the flavor of the cake.
- Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the batter.
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- In a mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
- Arrange the pineapple rings and cherries in the bottom of the prepared cake pan over the sugar mixture.
- In another bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet mixture, mixing until just combined.
- Pour the cake batter over the arranged pineapple and cherries in the pan.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, allow the cake to cool for 10 minutes, then invert it onto a serving plate.
Tips for Making Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for the best results.
- Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter; this can lead to a dense cake.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check if the cake is cooked through, as ovens may vary.
Make-Ahead Instructions
- You can prepare the cake batter in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
- Alternatively, bake the cake ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake.
Freezing Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Slice the cake and wrap individual pieces in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container.
- The cake can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving.
Reheating Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- To reheat, place the slice in a microwave for about 20-30 seconds until warmed through.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the whole cake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for added creaminess.
- Pair with fresh whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
- Accompany with a drizzle of warm caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
FAQs
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, fresh pineapple works great in this recipe! Just make sure to cut it into rings.
How long does the cake last?
The cake can last for up to 3 days at room temperature or longer if refrigerated.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the cake a day in advance or even freeze it for later use.
What should I do if the cake sticks to the pan?
If the cake sticks, run a knife around the edges and gently pull it away from the sides before inverting.
Can I add nuts to this cake?
Yes! Chopped pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled on top of the pineapple before adding the batter for added texture.
