Pineapple Upside-Down Cake
Pineapple upside-down cake is a beloved dessert that has been bringing joy to tables for generations. Its combination of caramelized pineapple rings and sweet maraschino cherries atop a fluffy, tender cake base offers a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The cake not only bursts with tangy-sweet goodness but also makes an eye-catching centerpiece, perfect for special occasions or cozy family gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 7 pineapple rings (from canned pineapples, drained)
- 7 maraschino cherries
- 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
- 2/3 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 2/3 cup pineapple juice (reserved from canned pineapples)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
- Prepare the Caramel Topping:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place 1/4 cup butter in a 9-inch round baking pan and melt it in the oven. Once melted, remove from the oven and evenly sprinkle 2/3 cup brown sugar over the butter.
- Arrange 7 pineapple rings on top of the sugar mixture, and place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple ring.
- Mix the Dry Ingredients:
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour, 2/3 cup granulated sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, and 1/4 teaspoon salt.
- Combine the Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together 1/4 cup vegetable oil, 2/3 cup pineapple juice, 2 large eggs, and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Make the Cake Batter:
- Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Pour the batter over the arranged pineapples and cherries in the baking pan, spreading it out evenly.
- Bake the Cake:
- Bake the cake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cool and Invert:
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Run a knife around the edge to loosen the cake. Carefully invert it onto a serving plate so the caramelized pineapples and cherries are on top.
Conclusion:
This classic pineapple upside-down cake combines a timeless recipe with an elegant presentation. The tangy sweetness of the pineapple and cherries, combined with the soft cake and caramel topping, creates a dessert that pleases the eye and the palate. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra touch of indulgence, making any meal feel special.