Prepare to embark on a delightful culinary journey with our Homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake recipe! Bursting with tropical flavors and nostalgic charm, this classic dessert is a timeless favorite that never fails to impress. With its golden caramelized pineapple topping and moist, tender cake base, it’s the perfect treat for any occasion, from family gatherings to cozy nights in. So, let’s gather our ingredients and dive into the sweet and satisfying world of Pineapple Upside Down Cake!
Ingredients:
- 1 20 ounce can Pineapple slices
- 2 Eggs
- 1 1/2 cups All-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 tsp Baking powder
- 1/2 cup Brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp Salt
- 3/4 cup Sugar
- 1 tsp Vanilla extract
- 3/4 cup Butter
- 1/2 cup Milk
- 1 Handful Maraschino cherries, pitted
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Prepare the Pineapple Topping: Drain the pineapple slices, reserving the juice for later. In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup of butter over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and stir until melted and smooth. Pour the brown sugar mixture into the prepared cake pan, spreading it evenly across the bottom. Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the brown sugar mixture, placing a maraschino cherry in the center of each slice.
- Mix the Cake Batter: In a mixing bowl, cream together the remaining 1/2 cup of butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a separate bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Alternate Adding Ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk, and mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour Batter Over Topping: Carefully pour the cake batter over the pineapple slices in the cake pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake and Cool: Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes.
- Invert and Serve: Place a serving plate over the top of the cake pan, then carefully invert the cake onto the plate. Allow the cake to cool completely before serving.
- Slice and Enjoy: Slice the cake into wedges and serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, if desired. Enjoy!
Cook Notes and Variations:
- Pineapple Variations: Feel free to use fresh pineapple instead of canned, if preferred. Simply peel, core, and slice the pineapple into rings.
- Gluten-Free Option: For a gluten-free version of this cake, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend in place of regular flour.
- Nutty Twist: Add a sprinkle of chopped pecans or walnuts to the brown sugar mixture for added crunch and flavor.
- Rum Infusion: For a tropical twist, you can soak the pineapple slices in rum before arranging them in the cake pan.
Keto Version:
To make a keto-friendly version of this Pineapple Upside Down Cake, you’ll need to make several substitutions. Replace the all-purpose flour with almond flour or a combination of almond and coconut flour. Use a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia in place of granulated sugar and brown sugar. Substitute the milk with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk. Lastly, use a keto-friendly butter alternative such as ghee or coconut oil. With these adjustments, you can enjoy a delicious keto Pineapple Upside Down Cake without compromising your dietary goals.
Low Carb Version:
For a low-carb version of this cake, follow the same substitutions as the keto version, but be mindful of the portion sizes of pineapple and cherries, as they contain natural sugars. You can also reduce the amount of sweetener used in the cake batter to further lower the carb count. Enjoy this low-carb treat in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Q: Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned? A: Yes, you can use fresh pineapple slices instead of canned. Simply prepare the pineapple slices as directed, ensuring they are drained of excess juice before arranging them in the cake pan.
Q: Can I make this cake ahead of time? A: Yes, you can bake the cake in advance and store it covered at room temperature for up to two days. If desired, you can warm it slightly in the oven before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of fruit for the topping? A: Absolutely! While pineapple is traditional, you can experiment with other fruits such as peaches, pears, or even apples for a delicious variation.
Q: Can I freeze leftover cake? A: Yes, you can freeze leftover cake slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to three months. Thaw them overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or serving.
In conclusion, Homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake is a delightful dessert that’s perfect for any occasion, from family gatherings to weeknight treats. With its caramelized pineapple topping and moist, flavorful cake base, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this classic recipe is easy to make and guaranteed to impress. So, why not treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice of this delicious cake today?
Indulge in the tropical flavors of Homemade Pineapple Upside Down Cake, and transport yourself to paradise with every bite. Whether enjoyed as a sweet ending to a meal or a special treat on its own, this classic dessert is sure to bring joy to your taste buds and warmth to your heart. So, why not whip up a batch of this delightful cake and share the love with friends and family?
