Craving a dessert that’s both impressive and simple to make? This easy pineapple upside-down cake is a timeless classic that brings a touch of sunshine to any occasion. You’ll love how effortlessly you can create this beautiful and delicious treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Canned Pineapple Slices: Use fresh pineapple if you prefer, but drain it well.
- Melted Butter: Margarine can be used in a pinch.
- Brown Sugar: Light or dark brown sugar works equally well.
- All-Purpose Flour: A gluten-free baking blend can be substituted for a gluten-free easy cake recipe.
- Buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk, add 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and let it sit for 5 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 1 (20-ounce) can pineapple rings in juice, drained (reserve 2 tablespoons of juice)
- Maraschino cherries, stems removed (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 buttermilk
- 2 tablespoons reserved pineapple juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Calories per serving: Approximately 380
- Tools Needed: 9-inch round baking pan, mixing bowls, electric mixer (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the melted butter evenly into the bottom of a 9-inch round baking pan. Sprinkle the brown sugar over the melted butter.
2. Arrange the Topping
Arrange the drained pineapple slices over the brown sugar. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring, if you are using them.
3. Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set this aside. This makes your easy cake come together smoothly.
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. Mix Batter
Alternately add the dry ingredients and the buttermilk to the wet mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix. Stir in the reserved pineapple juice.
6. Bake the Cake
Carefully spoon the cake batter over the pineapple and cherries in the pan. Spread it evenly to cover the fruit. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Invert and Cool
Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes after removing it from the oven. Then, place a serving plate upside down over the cake pan and carefully invert the cake onto the plate. Allow it to cool completely before serving this delightful easy cake recipe.
Variation Ideas
- Coconut Twist: Add 1/2 cup shredded coconut to the cake batter for a tropical flavor.
- Spiced Version: Include a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon in the dry ingredients for a warmer taste.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter for a bright note.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover pineapple upside-down cake covered at room temperature for up to 2 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To enjoy it warm, gently reheat individual slices in the microwave for 15-30 seconds.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Why is my cake sticking to the pan?
Ensure you generously butter and sugar the bottom of the pan before adding the pineapple. Inverting it while still warm helps too.
- Can I use fresh pineapple?
Yes, absolutely! Just make sure to slice it thinly and pat it very dry to remove excess moisture.
- My cake batter seems thick, is that normal?
A slightly thick batter is normal for this easy cake recipe. It helps prevent the fruit from sinking to the bottom.
- Can I make this in a square pan?
Yes, a 9×9 inch square pan will work, but you might need to adjust the baking time slightly.
- What if I don’t have buttermilk?
You can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
- Why is this considered an easy cake recipe?
The simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a perfect easy cake recipe for beginners, offering impressive results with minimal effort.