Craving a delicious dessert but short on time? This Pineapple Upside-Down Skillet Cake is a quick cake recipe that delivers impressive flavor and visual appeal with minimal effort. You’ll love how easily this classic comes together, perfect for any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Canned Pineapple Slices: Use fresh pineapple if you prefer, just slice it yourself.
- Brown Sugar: You can use granulated sugar for a slightly less caramel flavor.
- Butter: Margarine works as a substitute.
- All-Purpose Flour: A 1:1 gluten-free baking blend can be used.
- Milk: Any dairy or non-dairy milk (like almond or oat) is fine.
Ingredients:
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple slices in juice, drained (reserve 2 tablespoons juice)
- Maraschino cherries, optional
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup milk
- 2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 350
- Tools needed: 10-inch oven-safe skillet, mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Skillet
Melt the butter and pour it into your 10-inch oven-safe skillet, swirling to coat the bottom. Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter. This forms the delicious caramel topping.
2. Arrange the Pineapple
Arrange the drained pineapple slices over the brown sugar in a single layer. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring if you’re using them. This creates that iconic upside-down cake look.
3. Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside. Combining these dry ingredients now ensures they are evenly distributed in your quick cake recipe.
4. Cream Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. This creates the rich base for your cake batter.
5. Combine Wet and Dry
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and reserved pineapple juice. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Overmixing can lead to a tough cake.
6. Bake Your Cake
Gently spoon the cake batter over the pineapple layer in the skillet, spreading it evenly. Bake for 28-32 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. This quick cake recipe bakes beautifully in a skillet.
7. Invert and Serve
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let it cool for just 5 minutes, then place a serving plate upside down over the skillet. Using oven mitts, carefully flip the skillet and plate together. Lift the skillet to reveal your stunning Pineapple Upside-Down Skillet Cake!
Variation Ideas:
- Spice it Up: Add 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter.
- Different Fruit: Try sliced apples or peaches instead of pineapple for a seasonal twist.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle a few chopped pecans or walnuts over the brown sugar before adding the pineapple.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover Pineapple Upside-Down Skillet Cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, you can warm individual slices briefly in the microwave or oven until just heated through. This quick cake recipe holds up well!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can absolutely use fresh pineapple. Slice it to about 1/2 inch thick and arrange it as instructed.
My cake stuck to the pan, what went wrong?
Ensure you generously butter and sugar the bottom of the skillet. Also, make sure to invert the cake while it’s still warm, but not piping hot, usually within 5-10 minutes of coming out of the oven.
Can I make this in a regular round cake pan?
Yes, you can use a 9-inch round cake pan. Just butter and sugar the bottom, arrange the pineapple, and bake as directed.
How do I know when the cake is done baking?
Insert a wooden skewer or toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, your quick cake is ready.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
You can prepare the topping in a regular skillet on the stovetop, then carefully pour it into a 9 or 10-inch round cake pan. Then add the batter and bake.
Can I use self-rising flour?
If using self-rising flour, omit the baking powder and salt from the recipe.