Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake Recipe from USA | Ingredients & Instructions
Introduction
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a classic dessert that features a delicious combination of sweet pineapple, caramelized brown sugar, and moist cake. This timeless recipe is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your family and friends.
History
The origins of Pineapple Upside-Down Cake can be traced back to the early 20th century when canned pineapple became widely available. The recipe gained popularity during the 1920s and 1930s, thanks to the convenience of using canned pineapple and the delicious combination of flavors. Today, Pineapple Upside-Down Cake remains a beloved dessert that is enjoyed by people of all ages.
Ingredients
- 1 yellow cake mix or make your own from scratch
- 0.67 cup butter
- 0.75 cup brown sugar
- 1 can pineapple slices
- maraschino cherries (enough to fill centers of pineapples)
How to prepare
- In a frying pan, place the butter and brown sugar and melt until it boils or bubbles.
- For best results, use a cast iron pan as it is heavy and less likely to scorch.
- Add the pineapples to the butter and sugar mixture.
- Place the cherries in the center of the pineapple.
- Cut the slices of pineapple in half and line the sides of the frying pan with them, standing them up on edge.
- Prepare a box of yellow cake mix according to the instructions on the box to mix the batter. Do not bake in a separate pan; follow the instructions below. Alternatively, if making a scratch cake, combine the cake ingredients and beat for 1 minute.
- Pour the batter over the pineapple and cherries.
- Bake at 350°F (177°C).
- Once the cake is done, use a butter knife to loosen the edges.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for five minutes, then turn it upside down onto a serving dish.
- Optional: Instead of using a cake mix, you can prepare the batter from scratch using the recipe below or any recipe for yellow cake.
Variations
- Try using different fruits such as peaches, pears, or apples in place of pineapple for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm and spicy flavor.
- Experiment with different cake flavors such as chocolate or lemon for a fun variation.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Use a cast iron pan for best results, as it distributes heat evenly and helps prevent scorching.
- Be sure to melt the butter and brown sugar until it boils or bubbles to create a rich caramelized topping.
- Arrange the pineapple slices and cherries in a decorative pattern for a beautiful presentation.
- Let the cake cool for five minutes before flipping it onto a serving dish to ensure that it releases easily from the pan.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Pineapple Upside-Down Cake warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for a decadent treat. Pair it with a cup of coffee or tea for a delightful dessert experience.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to properly grease the pan before adding the butter and brown sugar to prevent sticking.
- Use a toothpick to test the doneness of the cake before removing it from the oven. The toothpick should come out clean when inserted into the center of the cake.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have canned pineapple slices, you can use fresh pineapple that has been sliced and cored.
- Substitute margarine for butter if desired.
- Use almond or coconut milk in place of regular milk for a dairy-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for a fresh-from-the-oven taste.
Presentation Ideas
Garnish the cake with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce for an extra touch of sweetness. - Serve the cake on a decorative platter or cake stand for an elegant presentation. - Add a sprig of fresh mint or a dusting of cinnamon for a pop of color and flavor.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair Pineapple Upside-Down Cake with a glass of cold milk, a cup of hot tea, or a scoop of your favorite ice cream for a delicious dessert pairing. For a special occasion, serve with a glass of champagne or sparkling wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store leftover Pineapple Upside-Down Cake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 5-10 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 280 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 45g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 12g per serving
Saturated Fat: 7g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 2g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
Vitamin C: 6% DV
Calcium: 4% DV
Iron: 6% DV
Alergens
Contains: Wheat, Milk
Summary
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a delicious dessert that is relatively high in carbohydrates and fats, but also provides a small amount of protein and essential vitamins and minerals. It is best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Summary
Pineapple Upside-Down Cake is a classic dessert that is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. With its sweet and tangy flavors, moist cake, and caramelized topping, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it for a special occasion or as a sweet treat any day of the week.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for the first time. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, always experimenting with new flavors and techniques in the kitchen. One day, while rummaging through her old recipe box, I came across a faded index card with the words "Pineapple Upside-Down Cake" scrawled across the top.
Intrigued, I asked my grandmother about the recipe. She smiled and began to tell me the story of how she learned to make the cake. It turns out that the recipe had been passed down through generations in our family, originating from my great-grandmother who had a talent for baking.
My grandmother explained that the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake was a classic dessert that was popular in the 1950s. It was a simple yet delicious cake, made with a layer of caramelized pineapple slices and maraschino cherries on the bottom, topped with a light and fluffy vanilla cake batter. When it was baked and flipped over, the golden caramelized fruit would glisten on top, creating a beautiful and mouth-watering presentation.
She showed me how to prepare the ingredients, carefully arranging the pineapple slices and cherries in a circular pattern on the bottom of a greased cake pan. Then she taught me how to make the cake batter, mixing together flour, sugar, butter, eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and creamy.
As the cake baked in the oven, the sweet aroma of caramelized pineapple and vanilla filled the kitchen, making my mouth water in anticipation. When it was finally ready, my grandmother carefully flipped the cake over onto a serving platter, revealing the stunning design of the fruit on top.
We enjoyed the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake warm with a dollop of whipped cream on the side. The combination of the moist cake and the sticky-sweet fruit was heavenly, and I knew that this recipe would become a favorite in my own repertoire.
Over the years, I have made the Pineapple Upside-Down Cake countless times, always following my grandmother's handwritten recipe card. Each time I prepare the dessert, I am reminded of her patience and guidance in the kitchen, and the joy of discovering a new recipe that has since become a cherished family tradition.
I have shared the recipe with friends and loved ones, passing on the delicious taste of nostalgia that comes with each bite of the cake. It never fails to impress, with its beautiful presentation and irresistible flavor that always leaves people asking for seconds.
As I continue to cook and bake in my own kitchen, I am grateful for the lessons I learned from my grandmother and the treasure trove of recipes she passed down to me. The Pineapple Upside-Down Cake will always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy of discovering a new recipe and the love that goes into every dish I create. And I know that one day, I will pass on this recipe to the next generation, keeping the tradition alive for years to come.
Categories
| American Recipes | Cake Recipes | Pineapple Recipes | World Recipes |