Craving a classic dessert but need to skip the eggs? You can easily create a beautiful and delicious Eggless Pineapple Upside-Down Cake. This recipe delivers a moist, sweet cake with caramelized pineapple that’s perfect for any occasion.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Pineapple Slices: Canned in juice works best; fresh can be used but might be less sweet.
- Brown Sugar: Essential for the caramelized topping. Granulated sugar can be used in a pinch, but brown sugar gives a deeper flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour: Standard for cake structure.
- Milk: Any plant-based milk (almond, soy, oat) works perfectly.
- Oil: Vegetable oil or any neutral-flavored oil. Melted butter can be used for richness.
Ingredients:
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup (113g) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup (200g) packed light brown sugar
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple slices, drained, juice reserved
- Maraschino cherries, optional
For the Cake:
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (120ml) vegetable oil
- 1 cup (240ml) milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup (60ml) reserved pineapple juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450 calories
- Tools Needed: 9-inch round cake pan, mixing bowls, whisk, spatula.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Melt the butter and pour it evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Create the Caramelized Topping
Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the melted butter in the pan. Arrange the drained pineapple slices over the sugar, fitting them snugly. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring if you like.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Make sure there are no lumps.
4. Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vegetable oil, milk, vanilla extract, and the reserved pineapple juice. This mixture will form the liquid base for your eggless cake.
5. Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula or whisk until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your cake tough.
6. Bake the Cake
Carefully pour the cake batter over the pineapple layer in the prepared pan. Spread it evenly. Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Invert the Cake
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes. This short cooling period helps the caramelized topping set slightly. Place a serving plate upside down over the cake pan, then carefully flip the pan and plate together to release the cake. Lift the pan slowly, allowing the beautiful pineapple topping to reveal itself.
Variation Ideas:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for extra warmth.
- Tropical Twist: Replace some of the pineapple juice with orange juice for a brighter flavor.
- Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the brown sugar layer before adding pineapple.
Storage Instructions:
Store your Eggless Pineapple Upside-Down Cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If refrigerating, let it come to room temperature before serving for the best flavor and texture.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can you make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute a 1:1 gluten-free all-purpose flour blend for the regular flour.
Why did my cake stick to the pan?
Ensure you greased your pan thoroughly and let the cake cool for the recommended 5-10 minutes before inverting.
Can you use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
You can, but make sure to cut it into even slices and soak it in a little sugar water to add sweetness, as fresh pineapple can be tarter.
What kind of milk works best for cake recipes without eggs?
Any dairy milk or plant-based milk like almond, soy, or oat milk will work well in this recipe.
How do you 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 cake is ready.
Can you prepare this cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it a day in advance. Store it properly, and it will still be delicious.