There’s something incredibly nostalgic about a slice of pineapple upside-down cake. This classic dessert has been loved by many for generations, and it’s easy to see why. With its sweet, caramelized brown sugar, juicy pineapple, and tender cake, each bite is like a tropical vacation on your plate! Plus, this easy pineapple upside-down cake recipe simplifies the baking process, making it an approachable treat for any home baker.
Gather Your Pineapple Upside Down Cake Ingredients
To make this delicious cake, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter (melted) (60 g)
- 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar (100 g)
- 1 can (20 oz) pineapple slices in juice (drained, reserve juice) (approx. 567 g)
- Maraschino cherries (as needed, usually 6-10)
- 1 box yellow cake mix (15.25 oz) (approximately 432 g)
- 1 cup pineapple juice (use reserved juice and add water if needed) (240 ml)
- 1/2 cup vegetable oil (120 ml)
- 3 large eggs
How to Make Pineapple Upside Down Cake
Follow these simple steps to whip up a delightful pineapple upside down cake:
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Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Get your baking pan ready – grease a 9-inch round cake pan or a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Create the Base: Pour the melted butter into the bottom of your prepared pan. Next, evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the melted butter.
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Arrange the Pineapple: Place the pineapple slices on top of the brown sugar mixture. For an extra touch of color and sweetness, put a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.
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Mix the Cake Batter: In a large bowl, combine the yellow cake mix, reserved pineapple juice, vegetable oil, and eggs. Mix everything until it’s well combined and smooth.
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Pour the Batter: Carefully pour the cake batter over the arranged pineapples and cherries in the pan.
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Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes (for a round pan) or 30-35 minutes (for a 9×13 pan). The cake is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
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Cool and Serve: Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, invert the cake onto a serving plate. Allow it to cool slightly before serving warm or at room temperature.
Serve & Enjoy Your Cake
Now that your beautiful cake is ready, here are some delightful serving suggestions:
- Top with Whipped Cream: Adding a dollop of whipped cream enhances the flavors beautifully.
- Pair with Vanilla Ice Cream: For a decadent treat, serve slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream – the contrast of warm cake and cold ice cream is irresistible!
- Garnish with Mint: A sprinkle of fresh mint adds a pop of color and freshness to your plate.
Expert Tips for Pineapple Upside Down Cake
- Use Fresh Pineapple: If you want a fresher flavor, consider using fresh pineapple instead of canned. Just slice it and follow the same steps!
- Add a Twist: Experiment with different fruits like peaches or cherries for a fun twist on your pineapple upside-down cake.
- Storage: Store any leftover cake in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave for a few seconds when you’re ready to enjoy a slice!
Pineapple Upside Down Cake FAQs
Can I use a different type of cake mix for this recipe?
Yes! You can use any flavor of cake mix you like, but yellow cake mix works best for the classic flavor.
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can bake the cake a day before serving. Just store it in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving.
What’s the best way to store leftover cake?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can warm individual slices in the microwave for a tasty treat!
This easy pineapple upside-down cake is perfect for birthdays, gatherings, or simply satisfying a sweet craving. Give it a try, and enjoy the delightful mix of flavors and textures in each cheerful slice! Happy baking!