Ultimate Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe
IntroductionPineapple Upside-Down Cake is a beloved American dessert that rose to fame in the early 20th century. Its signature look—a caramelized, jewel-like top of pineapples and cherries—makes it instantly recognizable. The “upside-down” method, where fruit is arranged at the bottom of the pan and covered with batter, reverses upon serving to reveal a stunning finish. It’s a nostalgic, comforting cake that’s perfect for gatherings, potlucks, or simply satisfying a sweet craving.
HistoryThe concept of “upside-down” cakes dates back centuries, using cast-iron skillets over open fires. However, the pineapple version became iconic in the 1920s after Dole Pineapple ran a contest for pineapple recipes, flooding newspapers and cookbooks with this now-classic cake. Canned pineapple rings made it affordable and accessible, cementing its place in mid-century American baking.
Benefits· Visual Showstopper: Requires no fancy frosting—the fruit creates a beautiful natural decoration.· One-Pan Wonder: Mixed and baked in the same skillet (or pan).· Moist & Dense Texture: The brown sugar and fruit juices keep the cake incredibly moist for days.· Versatile: You can experiment with other fruits like peaches, apples, or mangoes.
IngredientsFor the Topping:· 1/4 cup (60g) unsalted butter· 1/2 cup (100g) packed light or dark brown sugar· 1 can (20 oz / 565g) pineapple rings in juice (not syrup), drained, juice reserved· 8-10 maraschino cherries, drainedFor the Cake:· 1 1/2 cups (190g) all-purpose flour· 1 teaspoon baking powder· 1/4 teaspoon baking soda· 1/2 teaspoon salt· 1/2 cup (115g) unsalted butter, softened· 3/4 cup (150g) granulated sugar· 2 large eggs, room temperature· 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract· 1/3 cup (80ml) sour cream or plain yogurt· 1/4 cup (60ml) reserved pineapple juice (or milk)
Instructions & MethodPreheat & Prepare:· Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).· Have a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or 9-inch round cake pan ready (if using a cake pan, melt topping ingredients in a saucepan first, then transfer to the pan).Make the Topping:· In your skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup butter. Stir in brown sugar until dissolved and bubbling. Remove from heat.· Arrange pineapple rings in a single layer on the sugar mixture. Place a cherry in the center of each ring and in gaps.Make the Cake Batter:· In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.· In a large bowl using an electric mixer, beat softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy (3 minutes).· Beat in eggs one at a time, then vanilla.· Mix in sour cream.· Gradually add the dry ingredients, mixing on low until just combined. Stir in pineapple juice until the batter is smooth but do not overmix.Bake:· Carefully spread the batter evenly over the pineapple topping in the skillet.· Bake for 35–45 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.· Let the cake cool in the skillet on a wire rack for 15 minutes only.The Flip (Crucial Step!):· Run a knife around the edges to loosen.· Place a large serving plate upside-down over the skillet. Using oven mitts, quickly and confidently flip the skillet and plate together.· Gently lift the skillet. If any fruit sticks, gently reposition it on the cake.
For Lovers of This Cake· Nostalgia Bakers: Often reminds people of baking with grandparents.· Beginner Bakers: The impressive result outweighs the simple technique.· Potluck Pros: Always a crowd-pleaser and conversation starter.
Nutrition (Per Serving, approx. 1/12 of cake)· Calories: ~320· Fat: 14g· Carbs: 47g· Sugar: 34g· Protein: 3g· Note: This is a treat dessert. For a slightly healthier version, reduce sugar by 25%, use whole wheat pastry flour, or add a sprinkle of nuts for healthy fats.
ConclusionPineapple Upside-Down Cake is more than just a dessert—it’s a piece of culinary history that brings joy through its striking appearance and deliciously moist, buttery flavor. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy family dinner, it promises to deliver satisfaction in every bite. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its perfect combination of simplicity and elegance.So, preheat that oven and get flipping!
