Pineapple Upside Down Cake

Step-by-step instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the perfect Pineapple Upside Down Cake:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Pour the melted butter into a 9-inch round cake pan. Evenly sprinkle the brown sugar over the butter.
Neatly arrange the drained pineapple slices over the brown sugar layer. If you’d like, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring for added flair.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, and salt until well combined.
Add the softened butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the dry ingredients. Beat everything together with an electric mixer on medium speed until smooth.
Carefully pour the batter over the pineapple and brown sugar layer in the pan.
Bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen the cake from the pan.
Invert the cake onto a serving plate, so the pineapple side is facing up.
Serve warm or allow to cool at room temperature before enjoying.

When it comes to serving Pineapple Upside Down Cake, there are several delightful ways to elevate the experience:

Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar for a beautiful presentation.
Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream, allowing the warm cake and cold ice cream to create a delicious melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Add a dollop of whipped cream and a sprig of mint for an elegant touch.
This cake also pairs beautifully with a cup of freshly brewed coffee or tea, making it perfect for afternoon gatherings.

To keep your Pineapple Upside Down Cake fresh, follow these storage guidelines:

Room Temperature: If you plan to eat the cake within a couple of days, store it covered at room temperature.
Refrigeration: For longer storage, cover it with plastic wrap and keep it in the fridge for up to a week.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap individual slices in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in an airtight container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm slices in the microwave.

Here are some pro chef tips to ensure your Pineapple Upside Down Cake turns out perfectly every time:

Precision is key: Make sure to measure your ingredients accurately for the best texture.
Don’t skip the cooling: Allow the cake to cool a bit before inverting it; this helps it hold its shape.
Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to the cake batter for a unique twist.

Looking to change things up a bit? Here are some fun variations to try:

Tropical Delight: Add diced mango and coconut to the garnish for a tropical vacation feel.
Nutty Addition: Top with toasted pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
Savory Hint: Incorporate a hint of orange zest into the batter for a citrusy surprise.
Dietary Options: Substitute coconut or almond milk to cater to different dietary needs.

How long does it take to prepare?
The total time from start to finish is about 1 hour, including baking time.
Can I use fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just make sure to cut it into even-sized slices.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 20-30 seconds, or reheat in the oven until warmed through.