Pineapple Upside-Down Cake: A Retro Dessert with a Sweet Twist

For a classic dessert with a tropical twist, this Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a perfect choice! The sweet and tangy pineapple slices, caramelized to perfection, are topped with a buttery, soft cake that melts in your mouth. With just a few ingredients, you can create a stunning and delicious dessert that will leave everyone asking for more. Whether it’s for a family gathering, a holiday celebration, or just because, this cake will always be a favorite.

Ingredients:

• For the Topping:
  • 1 can (20 oz) pineapple rings, drained (reserve juice for the cake batter)
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 7-8 maraschino cherries
  • 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
• For the Cake:
  • 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup pineapple juice (from the canned pineapple)
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan and lightly flour it, or use a non-stick cake pan.

2. Prepare the Topping:

• Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the cake pan, spreading it evenly.
• Sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over the butter.
• Arrange the pineapple rings on top of the sugar, placing a cherry in the center of each pineapple ring. Scatter the remaining cherries and any optional chopped nuts around the pineapple.

3. Make the Cake Batter:

• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Set aside.
• In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
• Add the eggs, one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
• Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with the pineapple juice, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.

4. Assemble the Cake:

• Pour the cake batter over the prepared topping, smoothing the surface with a spatula to cover the pineapple and cherries evenly.

5. Bake the Cake:

• Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the cake is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 5-10 minutes before inverting it onto a serving plate.

6. Serve and Enjoy:

• Once inverted, allow the cake to cool for a few more minutes before slicing. Serve warm or at room temperature, and enjoy the sweet pineapple topping and fluffy cake.

Why You’ll Love This Pineapple Upside-Down Cake:

• Sweet & Tropical: The caramelized pineapple and cherries give this cake a wonderfully sweet, tropical flavor that’s irresistible.
• Simple to Make: With just a few pantry staples, you can create a delicious dessert that will wow your guests.
• A Stunning Presentation: The upside-down arrangement of pineapple slices and cherries makes for a beautiful presentation that’s perfect for any occasion.

Pro Tips for the Best Pineapple Upside-Down Cake:

• Make It with Fresh Pineapple: For a fresher, more vibrant flavor, you can substitute canned pineapple with fresh pineapple slices.
• Add Extra Flavor: To add a new layer of flavor, try adding a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter.
• Serve with Ice Cream: This cake pairs wonderfully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.

Ready to enjoy this delicious Pineapple Upside-Down Cake?
With its moist cake, tangy pineapple topping, and sweet cherries, this retro dessert is a true crowd-pleaser. Perfect for any special occasion or just because you deserve something sweet, this cake will surely become a favorite!