Description
A classic and nostalgic dessert, Pineapple Upside Down Cake features caramelized pineapple rings and a buttery brown sugar topping over a moist vanilla cake. It’s simple to make but always makes an impression.
Ingredients
1/4 cup butter (melted)
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
7–8 canned pineapple rings (drained)
7–8 maraschino cherries (optional)
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup butter (softened)
3/4 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch round cake pan.
- Pour the melted butter into the bottom of the pan and sprinkle the brown sugar evenly over it.
- Arrange the pineapple slices on top of the sugar mixture. Place a maraschino cherry in the center of each ring if using.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Alternately add the flour mixture and milk into the wet ingredients, beginning and ending with the flour. Mix just until combined.
- Pour the batter evenly over the pineapple layer in the pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 35–40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Invert onto a serving plate and let it cool completely before serving.
Notes
Use fresh pineapple slices for a tangier taste.
For added flavor, add orange or pineapple juice to the batter.
Brush dark rum over the pineapple after baking for a boozy twist.
Make mini cakes using muffin tins.
Try coconut extract instead of vanilla for a tropical version.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 150mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
