A truly delightful dessert, the Pineapple Caramel Cake combines the bright, tropical sweetness of pineapple with the rich, indulgent flavor of caramelized sugar. This cake is a beautiful balance of textures, with a moist, fluffy interior and a stunning caramelized topping that’s sure to impress at any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a special event or just looking for a sweet treat, this cake will surely steal the show.
With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow method, you can create this crowd-pleaser in no time. The cake is perfect when paired with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream, adding a creamy complement to the warm, caramelized pineapple. Let’s get baking and enjoy this indulgent yet light dessert!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Easy to Make – With simple ingredients and minimal steps, this cake is perfect for any baker.
✔ Tropical Flavor – Pineapple adds a refreshing twist to the rich caramel and buttery cake.
✔ Impressive Presentation – The caramelized topping makes for an elegant dessert.
✔ Versatile – Enjoy it on its own or pair with whipped cream or ice cream.
✔ Perfect for Any Occasion – From casual family dinners to festive gatherings, this cake is sure to shine.
Ingredients
For the Pineapple Caramel Cake
- Fondue: 1/4 cup
- Brown Sugar: 2/3 cup
- Pineapple Slices (drained): 1 can (20 oz)
- Maraschino Cherries (optional): 1 jar
- All-purpose Flour: 1 and 1/2 cups
- Granulated Sugar: 1 cup
- Butter (softened): 1/2 cup
- Large Eggs: 2
- Vanilla Extract: 1 teaspoon
- Milk: 1/2 cup
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking sheet with melted butter. This ensures the cake won’t stick during baking and gives it a lovely golden finish.
Step 2: Create the Caramel Base
Sprinkle brown sugar over the melted butter on the baking sheet, forming the caramel base. Lay pineapple slices in a single layer on top of the brown sugar. If desired, place a maraschino cherry in the center of each pineapple slice for added color and flavor.
Step 3: Prepare the Cake Batter
In a large mixing bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
In a separate bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and a pinch of salt. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, alternating with milk, and stir until smooth.
Step 4: Assemble the Cake
Carefully pour the cake batter over the pineapple slices and brown sugar in the baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread the batter evenly over the fruit layer.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. The cake should be golden brown and fragrant.
Step 6: Unveil the Caramelized Topping
Once baked, allow the cake to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, place a large serving plate over the baking sheet and carefully flip the cake upside down. Gently lift the baking sheet to reveal the beautifully caramelized pineapple topping.
Tips for the Best Pineapple Caramel Cake
- Don’t Rush Cooling – Let the cake cool slightly before flipping to ensure the caramel sets properly.
- Use Fresh Pineapple – If using fresh pineapple, make sure to slice it evenly to ensure uniform caramelization.
- Add Nuts – For added crunch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
- Don’t Overmix the Batter – Mix until just combined to avoid a dense texture.
Variations
- Tropical Twist – Add shredded coconut to the batter for a tropical flavor boost.
- Spiced Version – Add a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm spice undertone.
- Almond Flavor – Swap the vanilla extract with almond extract for a subtle nutty flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This cake is delicious on its own, but here are a few ways to elevate it even more:
- Serve with Whipped Cream – A dollop of freshly whipped cream balances the sweetness of the cake.
- Top with Vanilla Ice Cream – The warm cake pairs perfectly with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream.
- Garnish with Mint – Add a fresh touch by garnishing the cake with mint leaves.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the cake a day in advance and store it covered at room temperature. For a fresher taste, reheat it before serving.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to 5 days.
Can I Freeze the Cake?
Yes! You can freeze the cake (before adding frosting) for up to 2 months. Let it thaw at room temperature before serving.
Can I Use Fresh Pineapple Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! Just ensure the pineapple is sliced evenly to ensure it bakes properly.
Conclusion
The Pineapple Caramel Cake is a perfect dessert for anyone who loves a combination of sweet, tropical fruit and rich caramel. With its easy-to-follow steps and delightful results, this cake is guaranteed to be a hit at any event. Whether served warm with a scoop of ice cream or at room temperature with a dollop of whipped cream, this cake offers the ideal balance of sweetness and richness. Enjoy baking and sharing this delicious treat!