Perfect Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

Treat your taste buds to this delightful pineapple upside-down cake. Its caramelized topping with pineapple slices and cherries creates an irresistible combination of flavors and textures. This recipe is easy to follow and perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

For the Topping:

• ¼ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• ½ cup packed brown sugar
• 7-8 pineapple rings (canned or fresh)
• 12-14 maraschino cherries

For the Cake Batter:

• 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ tsp baking powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ cup pineapple juice (reserved from the canned pineapple)
• ¼ cup whole milk

Steps

Prepare the Topping:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
2. Pour melted butter into the pan and evenly sprinkle brown sugar over it.
3. Arrange pineapple rings over the sugar layer. Place cherries in the center of each ring and in any gaps.

Make the Cake Batter:

1. Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl.
2. In a large bowl, beat butter and sugar until fluffy. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract.
3. Gradually add the dry mixture, alternating with pineapple juice and milk, starting and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth.

Assemble and Bake:

1. Pour the batter over the pineapple topping, spreading it evenly.
2. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
3. Let the cake cool for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges and invert the cake onto a serving plate.

Pro Tips:

• Use fresh pineapple for a more vibrant flavor if available.
• Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a heavenly dessert.
• Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

This pineapple upside-down cake is a showstopper with its golden, caramelized topping and tender cake base. Perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or a sweet treat for yourself. Give it a try today!