Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe is a delightful dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia and a burst of flavor to any gathering. This cake features beautifully caramelized pineapple slices and cherries, making it as appealing to the eyes as it is to the palate. Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, or a cozy family dinner, this recipe ensures you’ll impress your guests with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, this cake is perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
- Beautiful Presentation: The caramelized fruit topping creates an eye-catching centerpiece without needing extra decoration.
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet pineapple and rich butter yields a moist and flavorful cake.
- Versatile Dessert: Serve it warm with ice cream or at room temperature; it’s delicious either way!
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a festive celebration or a casual get-together, this cake fits right in.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9-inch round cake pan or pie dish
- Medium mixing bowl
- Large mixing bowl or stand mixer
- Liquid measuring cup
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Wire rack
Importance of Each Tool
- 9-inch round cake pan: The ideal size for even baking and perfect presentation.
- Stand mixer: Makes beating butter and sugar easy, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
- Wire rack: Essential for cooling the cake evenly after baking.
Ingredients
Pineapple Upside Down Cake is simple, delicious, and, thanks to the beautiful caramelized fruit topping, you don’t even need to decorate it!
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted (56g))
- ½ cup light brown sugar ((110g))
- 1 (20-ounce, 567g) can pineapple slices in juice (drained)
- 20 maraschino cherries (stems removed)
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour ((180g))
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter (room temperature (113g))
- ¾ cup granulated sugar ((150g))
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup sour cream (room temperature (75g))
- ⅓ cup whole milk (room temperature (80mL))
For Garnish
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Step 2: Prepare the Topping
- Pour melted butter into a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Swirl to coat the bottom and sides evenly.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the bottom of the dish.
Step 3: Arrange Pineapple and Cherries
- Pat pineapple slices dry with a towel.
- Place one slice in the center of the pan; arrange six more around it.
- Cut three additional slices in half; position them standing up around the sides.
- Place a cherry in the center of each pineapple slice.
Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl:
1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large liquid measuring cup:
1. Whisk together sour cream and milk until smooth.
Step 6: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl or stand mixer:
1. Beat room-temperature butter until creamy.
2. Add granulated sugar; beat on medium speed until light and fluffy—about 3 minutes.
Step 7: Add Eggs and Vanilla
- Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Beat in vanilla extract until fully incorporated.
Step 8: Alternate Adding Dry Ingredients
Beating on low speed:
1. Add one-third of the flour mixture; mix just until combined.
2. Add half of the sour cream mixture; continue alternating until all is incorporated.
3. Scrape down the bowl as needed.
Step 9: Pour Batter into Pan
Carefully pour batter into prepared cake pan:
1. Spread evenly to cover fruit completely.
Step 10: Bake the Cake
Place the cake pan on a large baking sheet:
1. Bake for 40 to 45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out with moist crumbs.
2. Cover with foil if browning too quickly after 30 minutes.
Step 11: Cool Before Serving
Let cool on a wire rack for about 15 minutes:
1. Invert onto a serving plate or stand carefully.
2. Cool for another 20 minutes before slicing into this delicious treat!
How to Serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just treating yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.
Serve with Whipped Cream
- Pairing this cake with freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy texture that complements the sweetness of the pineapple.
Add Vanilla Ice Cream
- A scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side creates a delicious contrast to the warm cake, making every bite irresistible.
Top with Toasted Coconut
- Sprinkling toasted coconut flakes over the top adds a tropical twist, enhancing the cake’s flavor and presentation.
Drizzle with Caramel Sauce
- A drizzle of warm caramel sauce brings an extra layer of sweetness and indulgence, perfect for those with a sweet tooth.
Garnish with Fresh Mint
- Adding fresh mint leaves not only enhances the visual appeal but also introduces a refreshing flavor that balances the richness of the cake.
Serve as Breakfast or Brunch
- This cake can double as a sweet breakfast option. Pair it with coffee or tea for a delightful start to your day.
How to Perfect Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
To ensure your Pineapple Upside Down Cake turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
- Use Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs, butter, sour cream, and milk are at room temperature. This helps create a smoother batter and improves overall texture.
- Don’t Skip Patting the Pineapples Dry: Removing excess moisture from the pineapple slices prevents your cake from becoming soggy and ensures better caramelization.
- Alternate Dry and Wet Ingredients: When mixing your batter, alternate adding flour and sour cream mixture. This method helps maintain a light texture in your cake.
- Check for Doneness Early: Ovens can vary in temperature. Start checking for doneness around 35 minutes to avoid overbaking.
- Cool Before Inverting: Letting the cake cool in the pan for 15 minutes before inverting helps keep it intact and prevents any breakage.
- Experiment with Toppings: Feel free to customize your toppings! Try using different fruits like peaches or cherries for unique flavors.
Best Side Dishes for Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
Pineapple Upside Down Cake pairs well with various side dishes that complement its tropical flavors. Here are some ideas to consider:
- Coconut Rice: This fluffy dish infused with coconut milk enhances the tropical vibe of the cake.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances out the sweetness of the cake.
- Grilled Chicken Skewers: Savory chicken skewers provide a delicious contrast to the sweet dessert.
- Creamy Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunchiness that pairs nicely with soft textures.
- Savory Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses can provide an interesting flavor profile alongside dessert.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, making for a balanced meal.
- Spinach Salad: A light spinach salad dressed with vinaigrette contrasts well with rich desserts like this cake.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad can make for an excellent potluck companion to this sweet treat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Pineapple Upside Down Cake, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here’s how to get it right.
- Using cold ingredients: Always ensure your butter, eggs, sour cream, and milk are at room temperature. This helps achieve a smoother batter and better texture in the cake.
- Not measuring accurately: Baking is a science! Use proper measuring cups and spoons for your ingredients to avoid inconsistencies in your cake’s structure.
- Overmixing the batter: Mix just until combined when adding flour and wet ingredients. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture instead of a light, fluffy cake.
- Skipping the cooling step: Allow the cake to cool in the pan before inverting it onto a plate. This prevents it from breaking apart and ensures it retains its beautiful topping.
- Neglecting to check for doneness: Always test with a toothpick before removing the cake from the oven. This ensures you don’t end up with an undercooked center.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pineapple Upside Down Cake in an airtight container.
- It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to avoid moisture buildup.
Freezing Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
- Wrap individual slices or the whole cake tightly in plastic wrap.
- Place it in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.
Reheating Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat slices on medium power for about 30 seconds to 1 minute. Check frequently to prevent overheating.
- Stovetop: Use a skillet over low heat, covering it with a lid. Heat for about 5-7 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to serve Pineapple Upside Down Cake?
Serving it warm with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream enhances its flavors. The warm cake pairs beautifully with cold toppings.
How do I know when my Pineapple Upside Down Cake is done?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out with moist crumbs, it’s ready! Avoid overbaking for the best texture.
Can I customize this Pineapple Upside Down Cake Recipe?
Absolutely! You can add different fruits like peaches or cherries, or even spices like cinnamon for extra flavor.
Why does my cake stick to the pan?
Make sure you coat your pan well with butter and sugar. Letting it cool before inverting also helps reduce sticking.
How long will leftover Pineapple Upside Down Cake last?
It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored properly.
Final Thoughts
Pineapple Upside Down Cake is not only delicious but also visually stunning, making it perfect for any occasion. Its versatility allows you to customize flavors and toppings as you please. Whether serving at celebrations or as a delightful family dessert, this recipe is sure to impress. Try making this classic treat today!
Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a nostalgic dessert that combines the sweetness of caramelized pineapple and cherries with a moist butter cake base. This delightful treat is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make, making it perfect for any occasion—from birthdays to family dinners. Impress your guests with this show-stopping dessert that requires minimal effort yet delivers maximum flavor. Whether enjoyed warm with a scoop of ice cream or at room temperature, every bite will transport you back to simpler times.
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Ingredients
- ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1 can (20 ounces) pineapple slices in juice (drained)
- 20 maraschino cherries
- 1½ cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs (room temperature)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- ⅓ cup sour cream (room temperature)
- ⅓ cup whole milk (room temperature)
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pour melted butter into a greased 9-inch round cake pan; sprinkle with brown sugar.
- Arrange pineapple slices and cherries on top of the sugar.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, mix sour cream and milk until smooth.
- Cream room-temperature butter and granulated sugar until fluffy; add eggs one at a time, then vanilla.
- Gradually mix in dry ingredients and sour cream mixture alternately until just combined.
- Pour batter over the arranged fruit in the pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Cool for about 15 minutes before inverting onto a serving plate.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 285
- Sugar: 27g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: <1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing. Pat pineapple slices dry to prevent excess moisture in the cake. Feel free to experiment with toppings like toasted coconut or fresh mint.
