Name: Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 85 min
Ingredients: 565 g canned pineapple slices in juice (not in syrup); 12-18 maraschino cherries; 60 g unsalted butter (melted); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 1/2 cups flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 1/4 tsp baking soda (sub 1 tsp baking powder); 1/4 tsp salt; 1/3 cup milk (full or low-fat); 1/4 cup pineapple juice (reserved from can); 1/4 cup sour cream (full fat); 1 tsp vanilla extract (or essence); 115 g unsalted butter (softened); 3/4 cup white sugar; 2 large eggs (at room temperature); Any leftover pineapple (chopped)

Introduction to Pineapple Upside Down Cake

If you're looking for a dessert that blends nostalgia with delightful flavors, Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a timeless classic that never disappoints. Why is it such a beloved treat, you ask? It's the perfect trifecta of sweet and tart flavors, moist cake, and stunning presentation. Originating in the 1920s, this cake became a household favorite thanks to its eye-catching design and the ease with which it can be made.

The magic happens when caramelized pineapple slices and cherries sit atop a soft, buttery cake. The moment you flip it over, you reveal a golden, glistening topping that's bound to impress your guests. The cake is not only visually stunning but is also incredibly simple to prepare, making it the ideal choice for gatherings, parties, or just an indulgent treat after a long day.

Did you know that the cake harnesses the delicious flavor of pineapple juice, enhancing its moistness? Plus, it's a charming way to elevate canned fruit into something special. If you're ready to embark on a baking adventure that brings joy to the taste buds and fond memories back to life, let's dive into the recipe for this delightful Pineapple Upside Down Cake!

Ingredients for Pineapple Upside Down Cake

If you’re ready to whip up a luscious Pineapple Upside Down Cake, let’s dive into the essential ingredients that make this classic dessert a true crowd-pleaser.

Topping Essentials

The cake features a delightful topping that steals the show! You’ll need:

Canned pineapple slices (565g/20 oz, in juice)
Maraschino cherries (12-18, for that classic look)
Unsalted butter (60g/4 tbsp, melted)
Brown sugar (½ cup, for that delicious caramel sweetness)

These ingredients create that signature sticky glaze that pairs so beautifully with the soft, moist cake.

Cake Ingredients

For the cake base, gather the following:

All-purpose flour (1 ½ cups)
Baking powder (1 tsp)
Baking soda (¼ tsp)
Salt (¼ tsp)
Milk (⅓ cup, full or low-fat)
Pineapple juice (¼ cup, reserved from the canned pineapple)
Sour cream (¼ cup, full fat or substitute with plain yogurt)
Vanilla extract (1 tsp)
Unsalted butter (115g/1 stick, softened)
White sugar (¾ cup)
Eggs (2 large, at room temperature)
Any leftover chopped pineapple from the can

With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to create a delectable dessert that’s sure to impress. Don't forget to check out our full detailed recipe for tips and tricks to achieve that perfect cake!

Preparing Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Making a Pineapple Upside Down Cake brings a fun twist to your baking routine and adds a burst of flavor to your dessert table. This retro classic is visually striking and delightful, boasting the perfect combination of caramelized pineapple and a moist vanilla cake. Let’s dive into the simple steps to prepare this stunning treat!

Preheat and Prepare Your Baking Pan

First, preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). While it's warming up, grab a 23cm (9") cake pan that’s at least 5cm (2") deep. Remember, a springform pan is not suitable here because it may leak! Pour 60g (4 tbsp) of melted butter into the pan and brush it up the sides to ensure a smooth release. Next, sprinkle ½ cup of brown sugar evenly over the base before placing your pineapple and cherries.

Prepare the Pineapple and Cherries

If you're using canned pineapple slices (which I highly recommend), drain them but keep that delicious juice! You'll need 565g (20 oz) of pineapple slices in juice (not syrup) for the perfect balance of flavor. Lay the slices out on a towel and pat dry to remove excess moisture. For the cherries, simply grab your maraschino cherries and pat them dry as well—this will help keep their vibrant color intact when baked!

Make the Batter

In a large bowl, whisk together 1 ½ cups of flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. In a separate bowl, mix together ⅓ cup of milk, ¼ cup of leftover pineapple juice, ¼ cup of sour cream, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. In a third bowl, cream 115g of softened butter with ¾ cup of white sugar until light and fluffy. Add 2 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Finally, alternate adding your flour mixture and milk mixture to the creamed butter, mixing until just combined.

Assemble and Bake the Cake

Now comes the fun part! Pour the batter over your carefully arranged pineapples and cherries. Level the surface smoothly. Pop it in the oven for 30 minutes, but don’t forget to loosely cover it with foil for the last 15 minutes to prevent over-browning. The cake is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Cool and Flip the Cake

Once your cake is baked to perfection, remove it from the oven and leave it in the pan to cool for 20 minutes. To flip it out, run a butter knife around the edge, carefully place a plate over the top, and flip it upside down. Gently tap the base to release. It’s the moment of truth—behold your beautiful Pineapple Upside Down Cake! Let it cool completely before slicing to fully appreciate the caramelized topping.

Enjoy this delicious twist on a classic dessert! If you want more details about ingredient substitutions or adaptation tips, check out this great source for expert ideas. Happy baking!

Variations on Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Tropical Fruit Variations

While the classic Pineapple Upside Down Cake steals the spotlight, think about mixing it up with other tropical fruits! Consider using mango, kiwi, or even peaches for a fresh twist. You can slice them into rings or cubes, layering them just like the pineapple. Not only do they add exciting flavors, but their vibrant colors will make your cake visually stunning. Check out sites like Taste of Home for more inspiration on fruit pairings that can elevate your cake.

Flavored Cake Alternatives

Another way to personalize your Pineapple Upside Down Cake is by experimenting with flavored batters. Instead of the standard vanilla, try adding coconut extract, almond extract, or even a splash of orange juice to the cake mix. You could also blend in spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor profile. These simple adjustments can transform your cake into a delightful tropical escape that’s perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Baking notes for Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Tips for perfect texture

To achieve a delightful texture in your Pineapple Upside Down Cake, remember that the creaming of your butter and sugar is crucial; aim for that fluffy consistency. One tip is to use softened butter at around 18°C (64°F) — that's the sweet spot where it whips air in without becoming greasy. Also, don't skip on letting your eggs reach room temperature. A simple trick: place them in warm water for five minutes!

Ingredient adjustments and substitutions

If you don’t have every ingredient on hand, don’t stress! You can swap sour cream with plain yogurt for a lighter spin. For a more allergenic-friendly option, consider vegan butter and a flaxseed egg substitute. Keep in mind to use canned pineapple in juice, not syrup; the sweetness will overwhelm your delicious cake. Got leftover pineapple? Chop and stir it into the batter for an extra burst of flavor! Check out this article for more tips.

Serving Suggestions for Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Ideal Pairings

When enjoying your Pineapple Upside Down Cake, consider pairing it with a dollop of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. Both options complement the cake's sweet, tangy flavors beautifully. For a refreshing twist, serve with a side of citrus fruit salad—think oranges and kiwis. You might also enjoy it alongside a cup of Earl Grey tea or a chilled hibiscus iced tea for a lovely afternoon treat.

Creative Presentation Ideas

Elevate your Pineapple Upside Down Cake by serving it on a vibrant cake stand and garnishing it with mint leaves. For a unique touch, consider arranging edible flowers around the base to create a visually appealing display. Drizzle warm caramel sauce on top for extra indulgence or brush the surface with apricot jam for a glossy finish. A dusting of powdered sugar just before serving can add a charming touch. Explore more presentation tips at Taste of Home for inspiration!

Embrace your creativity and make this retro dessert shine!

Time Details for Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Preparation Time

Get ready to bake! The preparation time for your delicious Pineapple Upside Down Cake is about 20 minutes. This is when you'll gather your ingredients, prep the fruit, and whip up that delightful batter.

Baking Time

The baking time will take approximately 45 minutes. During this time, the magic happens as your cake rises and the pineapple caramelizes beautifully on top.

Total Time

In total, you're looking at about 85 minutes from start to finish. This includes cooling time, so your cake will be ready to stand proud on your dessert table in just under an hour and a half!

Feeling inspired? Ready for a delicious Pineapple Upside Down Cake? Let’s dive into the recipe!

For more baking tips, you might find this guide on cake baking essentials helpful!

Nutritional Information for Pineapple Upside Down Cake

When indulging in a slice of Pineapple Upside Down Cake, it's helpful to know what you're treating yourself to. Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per slice based on 12 servings:

Calories

Each slice comes in at approximately 319 calories, making it a delightful yet moderate dessert choice!

Carbohydrates

You’ll find about 47 grams of carbohydrates in each slice, mostly derived from delicious sugars in the cake and the syrupy goodness of the pineapple.

Protein

With roughly 3 grams of protein, this cake provides just enough to complement those sweet flavours without compromising on taste!

For more information on the nutritional benefits of different cake ingredients, check out Healthline or Nutritionist Weekly. Enjoy your baking!

FAQs about Pineapple Upside Down Cake

How can I make my cake less sweet?

If you find the traditional Pineapple Upside Down Cake a bit too sweet for your taste buds, consider reducing the sugar in the batter by a quarter or using less brown sugar for the topping. You might also opt for unsweetened pineapple juice in place of the syrup for more balanced flavors. Remember, sweeteners play a significant role in moisture, so keep this in mind as you adjust!

Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?

Absolutely! Fresh pineapple can bring a delightful, vibrant flavor to your Pineapple Upside Down Cake. Just make sure to slice it thinly and use the juice from the fresh fruit if you can. This will also help maintain the moistness of the cake while showcasing that lovely natural sweetness.

What is the best way to store leftover cake?

To keep your delicious Pineapple Upside Down Cake fresh, wrap it tightly in cling film or store it in an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to five days. When you're ready to indulge again, allow it to come to room temperature for the best flavor experience. For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices—just make sure to seal them well! If you’re looking for more storage tips, check out this guide on food storage.

Conclusion on Pineapple Upside Down Cake

The Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a delightful retro dessert that brings a smile to every gathering. With its sweet, caramelized fruits atop a moist vanilla cake, it's a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to make. Plus, utilizing leftover pineapple juice ensures delicious flavor without waste. Enjoy every slice!