Welcome to the world of simple cake recipes! You’re about to create a show-stopping Classic Pineapple Upside-Down Cake, a dessert that’s as beautiful as it is delicious. This easy recipe promises a moist, tender cake with a caramelized pineapple topping, perfect for any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Pineapple Rings: Canned is perfectly fine; use fresh if you prefer.
- Butter: Unsalted is best for controlling sweetness. Margarine works in a pinch.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar will give you that signature caramel flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: A gluten-free baking blend can often be substituted.
- Eggs: Crucial for structure.
- Milk: Any kind of dairy or non-dairy milk will work.
Ingredients
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple rings, drained (reserve 2 tablespoons of juice)
- Maraschino cherries, for garnish (optional)
For the Cake:
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 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: 50-60 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Tools Needed: 9-inch round cake pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Melt the butter in a 9-inch round cake pan. Swirl to coat the bottom evenly, then sprinkle the brown sugar over the melted butter.
2. Arrange the Topping
Carefully arrange the drained pineapple rings over the brown sugar mixture. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring, if you’re using them.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside for now. This ensures your simple cake recipes always have even leavening.
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.
5. Add Dry and Wet to Creamed Mixture
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the milk and reserved pineapple juice. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix the batter.
6. Bake Your Cake
Gently pour the cake batter evenly over the pineapple layer in the prepared pan. Bake for 30-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean.
7. Invert and Cool
Let the cake cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. Then, carefully place a serving plate upside down over the cake pan and, using oven mitts, flip the cake and plate over. Lift the cake pan to reveal your beautiful pineapple upside-down cake.
Variation Ideas
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter.
- Other Fruits: Try thinly sliced apples or peaches instead of pineapple.
- Coconut Twist: Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flair.
Storage Instructions
Store leftover pineapple upside-down cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds if you prefer it warm.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why is my cake sticking to the pan?
Make sure you’ve greased your pan thoroughly and used enough butter and brown sugar for the topping. Flipping while warm is also key.
Can I use fresh pineapple?
Absolutely! Just make sure you drain it well and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture.
What if I don’t have brown sugar?
You can make a quick substitute by mixing granulated sugar with a small amount of molasses.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, this cake holds up well. You can bake it a day in advance and store it covered.
Why did my cake sink in the middle?
This often happens from overmixing the batter, opening the oven door too early, or incorrect oven temperature.
Can I freeze pineapple upside-down cake?
While possible, the texture of the pineapple topping can change slightly. Freeze well-wrapped slices for up to a month.