Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

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Here’s a complete, detailed recipe guide for the retro favorite Pineapple Upside-Down Cake – expanded with history, benefits, lovers, nutrition, and more, just the way you like it:

🍍 Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe

🌸 Introduction

The Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is one of the most beloved retro desserts, known for its golden caramelized pineapple rings and bright maraschino cherries resting atop a soft, buttery cake. The moment you flip it onto a serving plate, the cake transforms into a show-stopping treat. Both nostalgic and timeless, this dessert brings together tropical sweetness, old-fashioned charm, and the joy of homemade baking.

📝 Ingredients

For the Topping:

  • ¼ cup (60 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup (100 g) packed brown sugar
  • 7–8 pineapple slices (canned or fresh)
  • 7–8 maraschino cherries

For the Cake Batter:

  • 1 ½ cups (190 g) all-purpose flour
  • 1 ½ tsp baking powder
  • ½ tsp salt
  • ½ cup (115 g) unsalted butter, softened
  • 1 cup (200 g) granulated sugar
  • 2 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • ½ cup (120 ml) whole milk (or pineapple juice for extra flavor)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

  1. Prepare the Pan
    • Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
    • Pour melted butter into a 9-inch round cake pan. Sprinkle evenly with brown sugar.
    • Arrange pineapple slices over the sugar layer. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each slice.
  2. Make the Batter
    • In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
    • In another large bowl, cream butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
    • Beat in eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
    • Gradually mix in dry ingredients, alternating with milk (or pineapple juice).
  3. Assemble & Bake
    • Carefully pour the batter over the pineapple layer, spreading it evenly.
    • Bake for 40–45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  4. Invert the Cake
    • Let the cake cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
    • Run a knife around the edges, then place a serving plate over the pan.
    • Flip quickly and gently lift the pan away to reveal the golden caramelized topping.

🥣 Methods of Preparation

  • Classic Oven Method: The standard way, baked in a round pan.
  • Cast-Iron Skillet Method: Enhances caramelization with richer flavor.
  • Mini Upside-Down Cakes: Use muffin tins for individual servings.
  • Variation Method: Substitute pineapple with peaches, pears, or mango for a twist.

📜 History

The Pineapple Upside-Down Cake rose to fame in the 1920s in America. When canned pineapple became widely available (thanks to the Dole company), homemakers began using it in creative desserts. The upside-down cake method was already popular with apples and other fruits, but pineapple—with its bright color and tropical sweetness—quickly became iconic. It remains a symbol of vintage baking and hospitality.

🌿 Benefits

  1. Nutritional Boost – Pineapple provides vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants.
  2. Mood-Enhancing – Its tropical sweetness brings comfort and joy.
  3. Celebratory Dessert – Perfect for birthdays, potlucks, and family gatherings.
  4. Digestive Aid – Pineapple contains bromelain, which helps digestion.

🏗 Formation (Structure of the Cake)

  • Base Layer (after flipping): Caramelized pineapple slices with cherries.
  • Middle Layer: Moist, buttery vanilla cake infused with fruity juices.
  • Top Layer (bottom in pan): Golden crust that holds everything together.

💖 Lovers of This Dessert

  • Retro Baking Fans – People who love nostalgic recipes

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