If you crave a dessert that’s both delicious and easy to make, look no further! My Pineapple Upside Down Cake recipe is simple, fun, and pairs perfectly with vanilla ice cream. With step-by-step photos, you’ll see just how easy it is to create this stunning treat. Whether you’re a baking beginner or just want a reliable recipe, join me as I walk you through each step to bake the perfect cake!
Ingredients
List of Required Ingredients
– 1 cup unsalted butter (2 sticks)
– 1 cup brown sugar, packed
– 1 (20 oz) can pineapple slices, drained
– Maraschino cherries (about 10)
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 3 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup buttermilk
Gather these ingredients to make your pineapple upside down cake. Each one plays a key role in building flavor and texture.
Optional Ingredients for Serving
– Vanilla ice cream
– Fresh mint leaves
These optional ingredients add a fun touch. Vanilla ice cream gives a creamy contrast to the sweet cake. Fresh mint leaves look nice and taste bright.
When you prepare to bake, make sure you have everything ready. This will help you stay on track and enjoy the process. You can find the full recipe [here](#).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing Your Oven and Pan
– Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Grease a 9×13 inch baking pan.
First, we need to get the oven ready. Set it to 350°F. This is the perfect heat for our cake. Next, take your baking pan and grease it well. Use butter or cooking spray. This helps the cake come out easily later.
Creating the Topping
– Melt 1 cup of unsalted butter in a pan.
– Mix in 1 cup of brown sugar until dissolved.
– Pour the mixture into the pan.
Now, let’s make the topping. In a medium pan, melt the butter over low heat. Once it melts, add the brown sugar. Stir this mix until it looks smooth. Pour it right into the bottom of your greased pan. This will create a sweet layer for our pineapples.
Arranging Pineapple and Cherries
– Place pineapple slices in a single layer.
– Add maraschino cherries in the centers.
Next, we will arrange our fruits. Take the pineapple slices and lay them on top of the brown sugar mix. Make sure to cover the bottom well. Now, add a maraschino cherry in the middle of each slice. This adds a nice pop of color.
Making the Cake Batter
– Mix 2 cups of flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a bowl.
– In another bowl, cream 1 cup of granulated sugar and the remaining butter until fluffy.
Now, let’s make the cake batter. In one bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This is our dry mix. In another bowl, cream the granulated sugar with the remaining butter. Mix until it’s light and fluffy. This step makes our cake soft.
Combining Ingredients
– Beat in 3 large eggs and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract.
– Mix dry and wet ingredients until just combined.
Next, add the eggs one at a time. Then, stir in the vanilla extract. Now, take your dry mix and add it to the wet mix. Do this slowly, adding buttermilk in between. Start and end with the dry mix. Mix just until combined. Don’t overmix!
Baking the Cake
– Pour the batter over the pineapple and cherries.
– Bake for 45-50 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick.
It’s time to bake! Carefully pour your batter over the fruits in the pan. Spread it evenly. Place it in the oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. To check if it’s done, stick a toothpick in the center. It should come out clean.
Serving the Cake
– Let the cake cool for 10 minutes in the pan.
– Flip it onto a serving platter.
Once baked, take the cake out of the oven. Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, place a serving platter over the pan. Flip it carefully. The cake should come out with the pineapples on top. Enjoy your beautiful creation! For more details, check the Full Recipe.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Cake Texture
To make a moist cake, use fresh ingredients. The butter should be soft but not melted. If your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature, they will mix better. This helps the cake rise evenly.
– Tip: Take your eggs and buttermilk out of the fridge an hour before you bake.
Mix the dry and wet ingredients just until combined. Don’t keep stirring after that. Overmixing can make the cake tough and dry.
Presentation Tips
A lovely way to serve your cake is warm with vanilla ice cream. The cold ice cream melts into the warm cake for a tasty treat.
– Tip: Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side when serving.
For a colorful touch, garnish with fresh mint leaves. They add a nice pop of green and a hint of freshness to your plate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overmixing the batter. This leads to a dry cake. Mix just enough to combine the ingredients.
Another error is not letting the cake cool before flipping. If you flip it too soon, the toppings may stick to the pan. Wait about 10 minutes before inverting it onto your platter.
Following these tips will help you create a beautiful and delicious pineapple upside down cake! For the full recipe, check the section above.
Variations
Tropical Fruit Variations
You can play with the fruit in this cake. Use peaches, cherries, or berries instead of pineapple. Each fruit brings a new taste. For peaches, slice them thin. Place them in a pattern like the pineapple. Berries add a burst of color. They also add a sweet and tart flavor. You can mix fruits, too! Pineapples and cherries make a great duo.
Healthier Alternatives
Want a healthier cake? Try using whole wheat flour. It adds fiber and a nutty taste. You can also swap granulated sugar for a sugar substitute. This makes the cake lower in calories. Another option is to reduce the butter. Use Greek yogurt instead. It keeps the cake moist while cutting fat.
Flavor Additions
Add coconut for a tropical twist. Shredded coconut will give the cake texture and flavor. You can also toss in chopped nuts. Walnuts or pecans work well. They add a nice crunch. For a richer taste, consider adding a splash of rum. It pairs well with the fruit and gives a fun kick!
These variations keep the cake exciting. You can try different flavors every time you bake! For the full recipe, check out the section above.
Storage Info
Room Temperature Storage
To store your pineapple upside down cake at room temperature, follow these steps:
– Allow the cake to cool completely.
– Cover the cake with plastic wrap or foil.
– Keep it in a cool, dry place.
This method keeps the cake fresh for about two days. If you notice it getting too dry, consider moving it to the fridge.
Refrigeration Guidelines
For longer storage, refrigerate your cake:
– Wrap the cake tightly in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
– Place it in an airtight container.
This keeps the cake fresh for up to a week. If the cake has been cut, cover the exposed edges to maintain moisture.
Freezing Instructions
Freezing is great for saving leftover cake:
– Slice the cake into individual pieces.
– Wrap each slice in plastic wrap, ensuring it is well-sealed.
– Place the wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
Frozen slices can last up to three months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
FAQs
How can I make the cake gluten-free?
To make this cake gluten-free, use gluten-free flour blends. Look for brands that contain xanthan gum. You can also use almond flour or coconut flour, but adjust the amount.
Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the cake ahead of time. Bake it, let it cool, then wrap it tightly. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. You can also freeze it for up to three months.
What can I substitute for buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, try these options:
– Mix 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice.
– Use plain yogurt or sour cream, thinned with a little water.
How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the pan?
To keep the cake from sticking, grease the pan with butter or cooking spray. Then, sprinkle a little flour over it. Tap out any excess flour before adding the batter.
Is it possible to make a smaller or larger cake?
Yes! To make a smaller cake, cut the ingredients in half. For a larger cake, double the recipe. Adjust baking time based on the size of the pan.
How do I know when the cake is done?
The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. You can also gently press the top; it should spring back, and the edges will pull away from the pan.
This cake recipe is simple and fun. You learned about the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. Remember to use room temperature ingredients for the best texture. Don’t forget to customize with your favorite fruits or flavors. Store your cake properly to keep it fresh for later. With practice, you’ll master this delightful treat. Enjoy every bite and share it with friends and family! Your baking will surely impress everyone.
